Developing Kimberlite Drill Targets For November
Botswana Diamonds (AIM:BOD) has commenced a precision ground geophysics programme to zero-in on potential kimberlite pipes on the prospective Marsfontein and Thorny River properties.
The company is focusing on four high-potential targets to finalise early drilling:
1. The largest and most prospective of the anomalies generated by UK group Subterrane’s recent detailed assessment. Geophysics will confirm potential targets for November drilling.
2. An assessment by Canadian group Terramodelling Services identified a further anomaly where geophysics will also confirm a target for November drilling.
3. New Marsfontein anomalies (M9 and M17) which were identified by reviewing historic data. Our own detailed geophysical survey is required to accurately geo-reference the targets for drilling in November.
4. Two thick intersections on Frischgewaagt suggest multiple kimberlite ‘blows’.
The company is also undertaking a detailed ground geophysical survey over the Marsfontein alluvial deposit, following an independent assessment of the potential for diamondiferous alluvial deposits by Professor Tania Marshall, the current Chairperson of the SamCode Standards Committee and a recognised expert in the geology and assessment of diamondiferous alluvial deposits.
A combination of ground gravity, electromagnetic (‘EM’) and magnetic surveys will be undertaken by Geofocus, a leading geophysical consultancy led by Bjorn Harvemann, previously Head of Exploration Geophysics at De Beers. EM and magnetics have previously been used to delineate kimberlite dykes, which were later confirmed by drilling. The detailed ground gravity survey specifically focuses on delineating kimberlite pipes Following the geophysical survey, which should take six weeks, a drilling campaign is planned in November to confirm the new kimberlite targets.
