Diamond News Roundup — United Reef mining Bamingui River diamonds

Diamond recovery is proceeding on schedule at United Reef’s (TSE) new plant in the Central African Republic.

The plant began processing diamond-bearing gravels from the Bamingui River in June, during which month 185.9 carats were recovered. In the last two weeks of July, the plant sustained its rated throughput capacity of 30 tonnes of gravel per hour.

Recovery increased to 332.4 carats in July.

The first sale of production from the property is scheduled for September.

Both the average and the greatest size of recovered diamonds was much higher during these first two months of commercial production than in earlier sampling programs. The three largest gem-quality diamonds of the 1,202 diamonds recovered in June and July weighed 9.7, 7.32 and 6.24 carats, respectively, whereas the largest stone recovered during United Reef’s sampling programs weighed 5.3 carats. June-July production also included several gem-quality diamonds weighing between

1 and 5 carats.

Mining and grade control have been somewhat hampered by the rainy season, yet operations continue to improve as equipment operators gain additional experience. Further modifications to feed and scrubbing circuits are expected to enhance throughput, diamond recovery and overall plant efficiency.

United Reef had completed more than 340 reverse-circulation drill holes to the end of July, and ongoing exploration in the Bamingui River drainage area continues to identify additional gravel resources.

Elsewhere in Africa

Toronto-listed Redaurum has made a takeover bid for Australian Stock Exchange-listed Auridiam Consolidated. The two companies are equal partners in the River Ranch diamond mine in Zimbabwe.

Redaurum says acquisition of the remaining half of the River Ranch mine will enhance its position as an international diamond producer with a growing diamond property portfolio.

Auridiam shareholders will be offered two Redaurum shares and 70 cents for every four Auridiam shares.