The
value of the Premier mine diamonds as compared with those from De Beers
and Kimberley mines is about twenty per cent less, owing to the greater
proportion of boart and small diamonds. The diamonds from this mine
show distinctive characteristics, and a parcel of them can be easily
distinguished from those produced from other mines. It is estimated
that the production of this mine could be raised to 1,000,000 carats
per annum. The mine is being developed for the commencement of
underground mining. Plan on page 318 shows the shape and size of the
mine on the 500-foot level. It is estimated that there are 13,000,000
loads, equal to 10,400,-000 tons, of blue ground in sight above this
level. The Premier mine may, therefore, be looked upon as a mine of
very great value, and one which will play an important part in the
future history of the diamond-mining industry.
