Objective Aiming at the problem of unclear geological characteristics and resource development potential of the De Rust pegmatite−type lithium deposit in Namibia’s Damara orogenic belt, this study reveals its metallogenic patterns and evaluates regional resource prospects through detailed fieldwork and analysis, providing a scientific basis for African lithium exploration and overseas resource development by Chinese enterprises.

Methods Using field geological surveys, petrographic analysis, isotope chronology, geochemical testing, and tectonic evolution comparisons, we characterize the stratigraphy, structures, magmatic rocks, and ore body features of the De Rust mining area. Data from regional typical deposits (e.g., Uis, Karibib) are integrated to assess metallogenic conditions and resource potential.

Results The ore body occurs as veins within biotite schist of the Ames River Formation (Zerrissene Group, Damara Supergroup), displaying distinct planar zonation (from marginal quartz−muscovite zones to core massive spodumene−quartz zones) and vertical differentiation (shallow Li enrichment with average Li₂O 0.63% and deep Nb−Ta mineralization). The main ore body measures 420 m in length and 46.20 m in width, with an estimated resource volume of 773 600 tons and spodumene content of 40%–60%. Mineralization is genetically linked to highly differentiated peraluminous S−type granite magmas during the late collisional stage (490~510 Ma). The Damara orogenic belt hosts over 100 Mt of proven lithium resources, with five major pegmatite metallogenic belts. The De Rust deposit shows significant potential in deep−seated ore shoots (Li₂O grades up to 1.54%) and concealed orebodies, though it faces challenges including low−grade ore processing bottlenecks, limited deep exploration (current depth control ≤200 m), and infrastructure shortages in arid regions.

Conclusions The De Rust Lithium Deposit is a typical LCT−type granitic pegmatite deposit. Mineralization is controlled by magmatic differentiation and tectonic extension subsequent to the Neoproterozoic plate collision, with zonation serving as a key prospecting indicator. Endowed with superior regional lithium resource potential, the deposit is expected to become an important overseas base for the diversified supply of lithium resources in China, and holds strategic significance for the resource security of the global new energy industry chain.