Prospecting Methods for Coloured Gemstone Deposits in Kenya

Prospecting methods adapted to gemstone prospecting are considered and described in this paper. They include geological mapping, systematic eluvial test pitting, geophysical and geochemical prospecting, and remote sensing. The geological characteristics of gemstone deposits must be understood in order to be able to select the most efficient methods. In the Kisoli prospect (Southern Kenya), the combined use of DC mapping, radiospectrometry, and soil geochemistry helped in identifying geological conditions favourable to some gemstone deposits. On a local scale, computerised treatment of data obtained from systematic test pitting allows to identify possible secondary deposits, and to locate primary deposits. (Af. J. of Science and Technology: 2003 4(1): 44-55