Diamond deposits varies spatially both horizontally and vertically ie from location to location depending on the nature of the sedimentary deposits. It can be in form of asthenospherIc origin or from sub-continental lithosphere as in South Africa. Spatial variatiation of diamond deposit can be evaluated using new pipe technology as in Ekati kimberlite Canada.

Have you researched if there exist paleo-stratigraphic / sedimentary studies in the area? Those could help you design an optimal sampling campaign.

Good day Jokin. The paleo stratigraphic studies have never been done. The type of deposit is a basal conglomerate and grit lying on a granitic basement. The variability is both strike wise and down dip. Taking only geological bulk samples down dip to depth of about 60m is very costly. Been trying to take bulk samples as mining progresses. The orebody is overlayed from top to bottom ( Dolerite capping, limestone, mudstone, sandstone, grit, conglomerate and basal granite).

To use pipe technology will not fit since this type of deposit is not an insitu as in pipes. The product is from different sources. Apart from that there is localised reworking depending on the energy during depositional period. One would expect larger diamonds from the outcrop as they are heavier and are first to be deposited as compared to smaller ones which are deposited further. One would expect grade model of carat/US$ value to decrease down dip, but there is no consistency. It is just mixed due toreworking.