Initial work by Monopros suggests pipe not viable

Test work conducted by Monopros Limited at its diamond prospect in the Shellbrook area of Saskatchewan suggests the kimberlite structure found there is not economically viable.

Monopros, a subsidiary of De Beers Consolidated, provided that assessment to Saskatchewan Energy and Mines which released the information to the general public.

However, the company is continuing its investigation of the occurrences but all information on the project will remain confidential for three years under the government’s Mineral Disposition Regulations.

Several companies have staked ground near Monopros including Corona Corp. (TSE) which has property under option from Claude Resources (TSE). It virtually surrounds Monopros and is reported to be some of the most prospective ground in the region.

Monopros has been tight lipped about the discovery and is said to be upset that word leaked out before the company secured its desired land position. Several important land parcels where picked up adjacent to it by competing companies.

Corona recently completed an airborne gravity survey on its joint venture property and the company plans more work in the future. Kimberlite pipes generally occur in clusters and in Monopros case the pipe is emplaced in Upper Cretaceous strata and outcrops in a gravel pit at or close to surface.

Staking in the region has been heavy and now involves some 170,000 hectares from Shellbrook to Choiceland.