Discovery of a new kimberlite pipe using multidisciplinary approach at Kalyandurg, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh

Multi-disciplinary approach involving remote sensing, stream-sediment-sampling coupled with geological, geochemical and geophysical surveys have paved way for identification of kimberlitic calcrete (with inclusions of garnet and ilmenite). Its distribution on the basis of abundance in a stream conveniently led to discovery of a new kimberlite body in the Kalyandurg Taluk (N 14degrees33'41.6" and E 76degrees59'41.3"). Recovery of deep-seated mantle xenoliths, petrography and major oxide analysis further substantiate the kimberlitic nature. This find, in addition to the three earlier reported kimberlites, makes the Kalyandurg Kimberlite Field (KKF) a promising one from the view point of diamond exploration.