UPDATE ON THE EVALUATION OF THE BAKERSVILLE ECLOGITE, MITCHELL COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, FOR ITS SUITABILITY AS AN ABRASIVE-GRADE GARNET

This is an update on studies we initially reported in March 2004. This second phase pilot-plant lab evaluation, just completed, consisted of processing a 500-pound outcrop sample composed of six- to eight-inch eclogite rocks. Mineral processing studies involved size reduction, gravity concentration and magnetic separation to produce a final product of garnet concentrate. Size reduction was necessary for garnet liberation and proper size gradation of the garnet product concentrate. Both gravity concentration and magnetic separation were for the removal of heavy and highly magnetic impurities from the garnet concentrate. Supporting studies included binocular and petrographic study of concentrate products, and x-ray diffraction and SEM analysis.

The result of processing is a garnet concentrate product that was 95% garnet and angular in nature. The garnet was milled to a size range that is useable in water jet cutting devices and is believed to be competent enough to perform adequately for abrasive purposes. The outcrop pattern and geologic map of the deposit suggests very large, high-grade garnet reserves that are commercially attractive.