Since 1915, the Northern Miner weekly newspaper has chronicled Canada’s globally significant mining sector.
Some of Canada’s biggest and best mineral discoveries began as little more than faint hope in the hearts of a few determined prospectors and geologists. The recent diamond discovery in the Lac de Gras region of the Northwest Territories adds yet another tale of remarkable perseverance in the face of incredible odds.
The Lac de Gras area swept to international prominence in 1992, the result of a diamond discovery in late 1991 on claims held in this sub-Arctic region by Dia Met Minerals (TSE) and BHP Minerals Canada.
Geologist Charles Fipke, founder of Dia Met, is credited with the original discovery of the Point Lake kimberlite pipe where diamonds, including those of gem quality, were returned from subsequent drilling and a bulk-sampling program. The staking rush that ensued, one of the largest in Canadian mining history, continues today.