FRANK SMITH
Recent Explorations
Between August 2017 and April 2018, an Exploration Diamond Drilling campaign was successfully completed for the Frank Smith Diamond Mine. Nine inclined boreholes with a total length of 3134.7m were drilled at an inclined angle of 55 degrees, and the holes varied in vertical depth from 174-356m.
Figure showing layout of planned and surveyed boreholes relative to the surveyed contour of open pit at surface
Eight of the nine boreholes intercepted kimberlite. Based on these boreholes a geological model is being constructed which will allow estimates of volumes, whilst MicroDiamond Analysis will yield grade estimation. These, combined with petrographic studies of the cores, are currently undertaken with the MSA Group in South Africa, and the results will be reviewed by Independent Geologist and Competent Person.
Core logs collected from Frank Smith exploration
High variation in grades between different kimberlite phases is a well documented fact. e.g. Dalnaya Pipe (Yakutia, Russia) has 10 times difference in grade between the two major phases, whereas Finsch Mine has 0 to >100 cpht difference among at least six recognised kimberlite phases. Frank Smith case could be similar; however difference might be more subtle.