SGS stands behind our diamond exploration services. We have serviced projects from every diamond district worldwide and our data is recognized by stock exchanges globally.
SGS’s mineralogy experts provide you with proven capabilities in the reliable, independent and thorough selection, classification and processing of indicator mineral samples.
SGS has expertise with materials ranging from till and alluvial samples, to beach sand and bedrock. As a result, we have a variety of flowsheets for different types of samples. In its basic form, our flowsheet is designed to recover as wide a range of indicator minerals as possible, including diamonds and gold.
Binocular and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are used to identify, classify and describe diamonds picked from heavy mineral concentrates and caustic dissolution residues. As well, we offer diamond classification and evaluation.
Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC)
SGS has an intensive, on-going program to monitor quality. Quality Assurance procedures include standard operating procedures for all aspects of the process and training and monitoring of staff. ONLINE LIMS is used for detailed worksheets, batch and sample tracking including weights and labeling for all the products from each sample.
Quality control procedures include:
- Sample spiking with synthetic diamond with an SG of 3.52
- Table tails audit with heavy liquids to verify complete heavy mineral recovery
- Balance and screen calibrations
- Quality control re-picking of 50% of samples
- Checking of picked indicator minerals by a mineralogist
- SEM-EDS checking of questionable grains (generally ilmenite)
When you require more confidence in your indicator mineral and diamond selection, classification and sample processing, trust SGS’s team of globally recognized experts.