Surface properties of diamonds recovered from metasomatically modified kimberlites during processing

Based on the mineralogical research package, the authors state adequacy of compositions of modified kimberlites and mineral processing slurry. Investigation results show high content of clayey minerals such as talcum, talcum–saponite, chlorite–saponite, Na–saponite and X-ray amorphous phase up to 50%. Calcite, dolomite and serpentine are present. Using optical microscopy, infrared spectroscopy and X-ray microspectral analysis, the surface composition of natural diamonds is studied when they interact with the traced minerals. The authors have found the sequence and conditions for mineral formations on diamond surface during processing of metasomatically modified kimberlites.