Torngat yields larger gems

The AD2 site at Twin Mining‘s (TWG-T) Torngat diamond property, on the Ungava Peninsula of northern Quebec, has yielded its largest diamond yet.

AD2 is one of two sites from which 8-tonne samples of the main dyke were extracted last fall. Both yielded several macrodiamonds, but, because the AD2 sample displayed a coarser size distribution, it was considered the better of the two from which to extract a larger sample for grade and value estimations.

The gem-quality stone, measuring 4.6 mm in its longest dimension, rang in at 0.685 carat. This is 340% larger by weight than the previously largest diamond.

In addition, six other diamonds have been recovered from the 96-tonne sample, and all are described as being of gem-quality, white and transparent. The largest measures 4.9 mm in its longest direction and weighs 0.566 carat; the remainder range from 0.034 to 0.229 carat in weight.

Lakefield Research is continuing with its analysis of the recent sample, as well as two similar-sized samples that were taken nearby. The samples cover 56 metres of the main dyke’s strike length. Final results are expected by the second quarter.

The previous sample from the AD2 site yielded 77 stones greater than 0.85 mm (the cutoff size being applied) in one direction. Their combined weight was 1.33 carats, with the largest stone measuring 3.8 mm in its longest direction.

Excluding the latest samples, Twin Mining has taken 50-kg samples at regular intervals of 400 metres over 37 km of the Torngat dyke system. Twenty-nine of the best sites were subsequently sampled to extract 250-400 kg, and of those, 10-tonne samples have since been taken from six (including AD2) of the most favourable spots.

Twin Mining holds four contiguous mineral exploration permits covering 444 sq. km on the eastern shore of Ungava Bay. The nearest town is Kangiqsualujjuaq (formerly known as George River), 90 km to the southwest, though the property is accessible by boat, fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter.

Meanwhile, Gerard Munera has replaced Frank Davis, who has retired, on Twin Mining’s board of directors. Munera has more than 40 years of experience, including positions with Minorco, RTZ and Union Minire.