Botswana Diamonds Secures Exploration Rights for Five Kimberlites in South Africa
Botswana Diamonds has obtained a prospecting permit for five kimberlites in the Marsfontein area of South Africa, focusing on the M3 kimberlite known for its potential diamond yields. The company aims to prepare for future mining amid current market challenges in the diamond industry.
Botswana Diamonds has recently been granted a prospecting permit to explore five diamond-bearing kimberlites located in the Marsfontein region of South Africa. This permit encompasses a substantial area of 900.67 hectares, which includes the historically significant Marsfontein diamond mine. The prospecting licence covers five kimberlite bodies designated as M2, M3, M7, M8, and M9, extending to the company’s Thorny River properties situated in the Limpopo Province. Of particular interest to Botswana Diamonds is the M3 kimberlite, which historical records indicate possesses a strike length of approximately 100 meters and a true width of 10 meters, with certain sections exhibiting even greater widths. Previous bulk sampling conducted by an earlier exploration entity revealed grades ranging from 13.9 to 137 carats per hundred tonnes, with the diamonds recognized for their exceptional color, quality, and distribution in size. The M3 site is strategically located on elevated terrain, distanced from any watercourses, and has undergone extensive benching processes, thus simplifying mining access without the necessity for expensive drilling and blasting methods. The Chairman of Botswana Diamonds, Mr. John Teeling, remarked on the significance of acquiring this permit, emphasizing the surrounding five kimberlites in proximity to the historically productive Marsfontein mine. Mr. Teeling indicated that the M3 kimberlite, which has not been mined to date, demonstrates strong potential based on preliminary assessments. He noted, “Obtaining this permit is very good news – five kimberlites around the mined out and hugely successful Marsfontein mine. We are particularly interested in the M3 kimberlite, which has never been mined. Our work indicates it is very prospective and we believe it enhances our adjacent Thorny River properties – easy to mine with good potential grades and quality.” Moreover, Mr. Teeling addressed the current challenges facing the diamond industry, citing a cyclical downturn in demand and the rising popularity of lab-grown diamonds. He expressed optimism regarding a recovery in demand for mined diamonds, stating that, “We believe demand will recover for mined diamonds and lab grown diamonds will take a certain percentage of the cheaper end of the jewellery market. M3 is almost ready to mine and we will confirm what is there and be ready to mine when prices recover.” In addition, Botswana Diamonds announced its plans to employ artificial intelligence software on its Botswana database, aiming to enhance operational efficiency in locating new diamond deposits and valuable materials.
Botswana Diamonds is a mining company focused on diamond exploration and production. The recent acquisition of the prospecting permit in South Africa signifies the firm’s commitment to expanding its operations and capitalizing on historical mining success in the region. The Marsfontein area, known for its rich diamond deposits, presents a strategic opportunity for Botswana Diamonds to explore and potentially mine new sources of diamonds, particularly through the kimberlite bodies identified in their new permit.
In summary, Botswana Diamonds has secured a valuable prospecting permit in the Marsfontein area of South Africa, allowing for exploration of five kimberlite bodies, with an emphasis on the M3 kimberlite. This opportunity is bolstered by historical data suggesting significant diamond yields. Despite current market challenges, the company remains optimistic about recovery in the diamond sector and aims to be ready for mining operations as market conditions improve.
Original Source: www.mining-technology.com
