The Merensky and UG2 Reefs are separated by a sequence of mostly anorthositic and noritic layered units of some 400m in combined thickness. Both the Merensky and UG2 Reefs are present but only the UG2 is currently exploited. The geological succession is broadly similar to that of the western limb. The UG2 Reef is defi ned as a main chromitite layer, with most of the mineralisation confi ned to this unit, followed by a poorly mineralised pegmatoidal footwall. The Merensky Reef is the upper portion of a pyroxenite layer, with a chromitite stringer close to the hanging wall contact. Mineralisation peaks over the chromitite stringer and decreases into the hangingwall and footwall. The average 6E metal ratios show the distinct differences between the Merensky and UG2 Reefs, in particular the high proportion of palladium associated with the UG2 at Marula and also the relative high proportion of rhodium in the UG2 Reef.

Both mineralised horizons sub-outcrop on the Marula mining rights area and dip in a west-southwest direction at 12° to 14°. The reefs are relatively undisturbed by faults and dykes with one major dolerite dyke traversing the mining area. Potholes represent the majority of the geological losses encountered underground, while a small dunite pipe also disrupts the reef horizons. These geological features are accounted for in the Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Statements as geological losses.

Marula Mine has two decline shaft systems. Driekop Shaft is exploiting the UG2 Reef by means of a hybrid mining method, while at Clapham Shaft, both a hybrid and conventional mining method are being used to exploit the UG2 Reef. For the two hybrid sections, all main development is undertaken on-reef and the stoping is carried out through conventional single-sided breast mining from a centre gully. Panel face lengths are approximately 16m to 24m, with panels being separated by 6m x 4m grid pillars with 2m ventilation holings. The stoping width averages 126cm. For the conventional operation, the footwall drives are developed on strike approximately 25m below the reef horizon with cross-cut breakaways about 220m apart. This development is undertaken with drill rigs and dump trucks. Stope face drilling takes place with hand-held pneumatic rock drills with air legs.

Marula has a concentrator plant where initial processing is done.

Concentrate is transported by road to Impala Platinum’s Mineral Processes in Rustenburg in terms of a life-of-mine offtake agreement with Impala Refining Services (IRS).