Bulk Sampling is defined as large-scale character sampling of how many tons of rock?

Bulk Sampling is defined as large-scale character sampling of how many tons of rock?

• A. 100 to 500 tons
• B. 50,000 to 100,000 tons
• C. 1 to 5 tons
• D. 5,000 to 10,000 tons

Answer: (D)

Bulk sampling tests a large volume of rock to obtain a representative sample for estimating ore grade and how well the ore will respond to processing. The sample must be big enough to average out local variation and provide material for realistic processing tests, including diamond recovery. In diamond exploration, the typical bulk sample is about 5,000 to 10,000 tons. This size offers a practical balance: it’s large enough to capture grade variability and produce enough material for reliable recovery and grade estimation, yet still manageable in cost and logistics. Smaller samples (like a few tons) often miss variability and can mislead feasibility, while far larger programs are usually reserved for later-stage studies where more definitive production-scale data is needed.

Bulk sampling tests a large volume of rock to obtain a representative sample for estimating ore grade and how well the ore will respond to processing. The sample must be big enough to average out local variation and provide material for realistic processing tests, including diamond recovery. In diamond exploration, the typical bulk sample is about 5,000 to 10,000 tons. This size offers a practical balance: it’s large enough to capture grade variability and produce enough material for reliable recovery and grade estimation, yet still manageable in cost and logistics. Smaller samples (like a few tons) often miss variability and can mislead feasibility, while far larger programs are usually reserved for later-stage studies where more definitive production-scale data is needed.