If developed, the $2.4 billion Jadar lithium project in Western Serbia could cover 90% of Europe's current lithium needs.
Bullion is now 18% higher for the year, boosted by anticipation of Fed loosening as well as significant buying by central banks.
Environmental campaigners are challenging the approval of a coking coal mine in northwest England.
Barrick Gold's second-quarter gold output edged up by almost 0.9% from the previous three months.
