Gem International (CVE:GI) has revealed in its latest set of quarterlies that initial field work and technical programmes are now underway on the Dala diamond project in Angola.
This includes establishment of a camp logistics base and procurement of mining, diamond production and infrastructure equipment.
Over 30 high priority areas have been identified where there are classic trap sites in active drainages and accumulations of river gravels preserved in old meanders and terraces.
The company is in the process of reviewing an extensive database of information for both alluvial and kimberlite exploration by a previous operator at Dala, with the objective of acquiring this information to assist the current work.
With data for over 900 alluvial sample sites and extensive information from kimberlite exploration this database will speed up the ability to prioritize initial work areas.
It is known that at least 5 new kimberlite pipes were located at Dala and numerous other untested kimberlite targets are known to be present. The alluvial diamonds currently being mined there are likely to have sources in diamond bearing kimberlites on the Dala License.
The work is being paid for by some of the proceeds from a C$900,000 financing that was completed in February.