Abstract

ROGERS, A.J.; HOUGH, T.G.  and  DAVIDSON, J.M.. KX36-rediscovering the diamond exploration potential of the central Kalahari in Botswana. J. S. Afr. Inst. Min. Metall. [online]. 2013, vol.113, n.7, pp.539-545. ISSN 2411-9717.

The KX36 kimberlite was discovered using a high-resolution gradient aeromagnetic survey, with follow-up detailed ground geophysics and deflation soil sampling used to assess and prioritize the geophysical anomalies identified from the initial aeromagnetic survey. Prospect drilling intersected kimberlite in the first hole drilled on the KX36 anomaly. Preliminary evaluation has shown that KX36 is diamondiferous, and a more detailed evaluation and sampling programme is currently underway. The area around KX36 has been prospected by numerous companies over the last few decades, with sporadic kimberlite indicator mineral (KIM) recoveries in regional deflation sampling indicating the possible presence of kimberlites, but without sufficient resolution to 'home in' on specific targets. Previous (lower resolution) aeromagnetic surveys and soil sampling campaigns also did not define anomalies with sufficient detail to guide prospect drilling effectively. The discovery of KX36 highlights the prospectivity of areas of Botswana under deep Kalahari cover that have been explored previously.

Keywords : kimberlite exploration; central Kalahari; overburden; high resolution aeromagnetics; deflation sampling; KIM.

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