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Apart from these bulk minerals, there are number of
other minerals available in the state. Some important
one's are described here -
Diamond:
Incidences of diamond in the rivers of the State and
discovery of diamondiferous kimberlite in Mainpur area
of Raipur district have attracted global attention. So
far six kimberlites in Mainpur area and two kimberlite
in Tokapal area have been discovered. Eight blocks
have been demarcated based on structural controls to
host kimberlites in Chhattisgarh. Potentially 3
diamondiferous kimberlites pipes have been identified
in Behradih and Payalikhand villages of Raipur
district. The State has emerged as a hotspot for
potential diamond mining with all major mining
companies engaged in reconnaissance operations.
Other Gem Stones:
A rare
gem mineral like Alexandrite is found in the State.
Other gemstones like Garnet, Beryl, Rosy quartz,
amethyst etc are also reported. Based on the minerals
strength of the State, Gems and Jewellery Park is
planned near Raipur.
Dimension Stones:
Multicolored and texturally different granites are
widely distributed in the State. Limestone, dolomite
of attractive colour and design are extensively
available in the State. Quartzite, sandstone and
shales are also widely exposed which can be suitable
as dimension stone. Export oriented cutting &
polishing units are working in the State and prospects
for many more exist.
Gold:
Potentially gold bearing rocks are available in Raipur
and Mahasamund districts. Placer gold panning is
widely recorded from Jashpur, Kanker, Mahasamund and
Bastar districts. ~3 tonnes of gold reserves are
estimated in the State. Global mining companies like
ACC Rio Tinto and Geomysore Services Pvt. Ltd., etc.
are engaged in reconnaissance & prospecting operations
for gold deposits in the State.
Base Metals:
Potential base metals like copper, lead indications
are known from Rajnandgaon, Mahasamund and Dantewara
districts. These metals can be used in electric wires,
batteries, manufacture of pigments, alloys etc.
Other
minerals like clays, quartzite, fluorite, andalucite,
kyanite, sillimanite, talc, soapstone, steatite,
marble, silica sand, etc. are also reported from
various part of the States. |
