AIM-listed Vast Resources has announced the discovery of an additional 6,055.35 carats of gem-quality diamonds within a sealed parcel previously held in Zimbabwe, following a recent inspection by the Kimberley Process.
The previously unknown diamonds were identified during the formal inspection process. The entire parcel, including the newly discovered stones, is currently in Dubai for final sorting ahead of cleaning and preparation for sale.
Last month, the company confirmed the release of the historic parcel, which had been held in secure custody at the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe since 2010, following a directive from the country’s Supreme Court.
With the inclusion of the newly uncovered stones, the total carat weight of the parcel now stands at an estimated 135,139.47 carats. Of this, 36,475.26 carats have already been confirmed as gem quality.
Vast Resources has begun selecting the first batch of diamonds for cleaning, with initial results expected in the coming weeks.
The company intends to conduct the sales process in phases to maximise returns.