Motapa updates Mothae project

Motapa Diamonds Inc and partner Lucara Diamond Corp. provides the following update on progress at the Mothae kimberlite project in Lesotho. Subsequent to the diamond recovery results announced on April 21, 2008, processing of three additional samples has been completed, bringing the total dry tonnes processed to 16,300. This sample tonnage estimate is based on plant weightometer measurements which require survey confirmation.

A total of 480 diamonds, together weighing 234.7 carats, have been recovered. Seventeen diamonds greater than two carats have been recovered and the three largest stones are 10.24 cts, 8.65 cts, and 7.60 cts.

The diamond recovery process at Mothae involves separating heavy mineral concentrate into various size fractions and then passing this material over a continuous grease belt recovery system. All tailings from the grease belt are retained on site in a secure area. Hand sorting of a limited number of audit samples of grease belt tailings has demonstrated that a number of diamonds are not being recovered in this process. As a result, all grease belt tailings will be reprocessed using an alternative technique in order to complete the recovery process and more reliably establish diamond grades.

Notwithstanding the inefficiency of the diamond recovery circuit, kimberlite from the F and G phases of the Mothae pipe have shown the best diamond potential to date and work is in progress to extract the remainder of the planned 30,000 tonne sample from these two phases.

Motapa and Lucara are also pleased to report that the Lesotho Ministry of Natural Resources has approved a one year extension, to June 2009, for the Mothae Prospecting License held by Motapa.

Pursuant to an option agreement with Motapa, Lucara will fund up to US$10 million to earn up to 70% of Motapa’s interest in the Mothae project.

Source : http://www.motapadiamonds.com/

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