Geological mapping set to continue at Ladysmith ‘diamond rush’ site
Plans have been put in place to investigate further into other underground resources in KwaHlathi.
This after geological experts found that the gemstones that sparked a diamond rush in Ladysmith are actually quartz crystals.
KwaZulu-Natal Environmental Affairs MEC Ravi Pillay on Sunday presented their findings after samples were collected from KwaHlathi last week.
"The stones discovered in the area are not diamonds as some had hoped and what was discovered are quartz crystals that are common. The value of any of the crystals is yet to be established, but it must be mentioned that it is relatively low compared to that of diamonds."
READ: WATCH: Experts to be dispatched to illegal Ladysmith diamond mining site
The stones were taken for analysis after hundreds of people flocked to the area, hoping to strike it rich.
Locals who initially unearthed the mysterious stones claimed they'd found diamonds.
The Council for Geoscience led the analysis.
Its CEO Mosa Mabuza says more geological mapping will take place in the area.
