Summary of the reconnaissance investigation of the diamond resource potential and production capacity of Côte d’Ivoire

Chirico, Peter G.; Malpeli, Katherine C.

Abstract:

This study presents the results of a multiyear effort to monitor the diamond mining activities of Côte d’Ivoire’s two main diamond regions, Séguéla and Tortiya. The innovative approach developed for this study integrates archival reports and maps, high-resolution satellite imagery, and terrain modeling to assess the diamond resource potential and production capacity of the Séguéla and Tortiya deposits. A geologic resource assessment was conducted to calculate the remaining diamond reserves for Séguéla and Tortiya using archival geologic data, including gravel grade and thickness recorded by the Ivorian mining company Société pour le Développement Minier (SODEMI). These data were combined with terrain analysis and geomorphological maps in a geological process-driven model. After accounting for previous production, a total of 10,100,000 carats are estimated to be remaining in Séguéla and a total of 1,100,000 carats are estimated to be remaining in Tortiya, based on currently known deposits.

Genre:

USGS Numbered Series

ProdID:

70040830

Citation Author:

Chirico, Peter G.; Malpeli, Katherine C.

Citation Contributing Office:

Earth Surface Processes Team

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Citation Language:

English

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Citation LatN:

10.74

Citation LatS:

4.35

Citation LonE:

-2.49

Citation LonW:

-8.6

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Citation Phsyical Description:

2 p.

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Citation Public Comments:

Prepared under the auspices of the U.S. Department of State

Citation Publisher:

U.S. Geological Survey

Citation Series:

Fact Sheet

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Citation Series Number:

2012-3130

Citation Search Results Text:

Summary of the reconnaissance investigation of the diamond resource potential and production capacity of Côte d’Ivoire; 2012; FS; 2012-3130; Chirico, Peter G.; Malpeli, Katherine C.

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Citation Year:

2012

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citation/reference

Text:

Summary of the reconnaissance investigation of the diamond resource potential and production capacity of Côte d’Ivoire; 2012; FS; 2012-3130; Chirico, Peter G.; Malpeli, Katherine C.