Calcrete to Kimberlite: A Prospector's Hunt for "Kimberlite Traits" in Calcretes

Abstract

Occurrence of calcrete over kimberlite is known all over the world and calcrete can also develop over a wide variety of weathered rocks and/or soil under suitable condition of its formation. The objective of this study is to evaluate the mineralogy and mineral chemistry of kimberlite derived calcretes and highlights their role as an exploration tool in search of kimberlite. The present study reveals the presence of significant minerals, including diamonds, within the calcretes of "kimberlite traits". Calcrete derived from granite and mafic (dolerite/gabbro) rocks are mineralogically very distinct with those derived from kimberlite. Calcrete can thus be a very useful prospecting tool in kimberlite and diamond exploration.