Mining News: Northern Neighbors: Crystal readies NU diamond projects

Crystal Exploration Inc. Jan. 25 said it has submitted samples from the Muskox kimberlite pipe in Nunavut to the Saskatchewan Research Council diamond laboratory for processing. The samples – totaling roughly 12 metric tons of whole core kimberlite representing five previously un-sampled drill holes from Muskox – will be tested for diamond content. “The pending results and the data acquired during 2015 will allow Crystal to re-evaluate the potential at the Muskox project and focus efforts on new and existing kimberlite targets throughout the project areas,” said Crystal President and CEO Jim Greig. Following the results from this sampling, expected during the second quarter of this year, Crystal will select additional material from 13 remaining unsampled drill holes and begin a thorough evaluation of the Muskox kimberlite pipe. Future programs may include a mineral resource estimate based on historical and new results and drill testing of priority kimberlite targets. This will include a detailed plan and budget with respect to further sampling and drilling at Muskox. A technical report for Muskox is expected to be completed later in the first quarter. In addition to Muskox, Crystal said numerous unsourced diamond indicator mineral trains have been identified at its Contwoyto and Hood River projects, located in the vicinity of Muskox. The company said it is isolating additional targets for drill testing derived from historical work across the entire 1,150 square kilometers (444 square miles) of prospective land that makes up the three projects. A comprehensive exploration program that includes: ground geophysical surveys; till sampling; prospecting and drilling will be designed, budgeted and completed for 2016 and beyond.

- Shane Lasley