Providing high quality services since 1984
Heavy mineral separation
Rare earth and sample processing
Project planning, implementation and reporting
Sample observation and analysis
Our Story
Director: John Towie
Independent Diamond Laboratories (IDL) is owned and directed by geologist, John Towie. Since 1976, Towie has supported and managed exploration projects. In 1979 he was part of the sampling team credited with the discovery of Argyle Diamond Mine. In the 1980s, he headed operations leading to the discovery of the Aires diamond deposit in Western Australia.
Independent Diamond Laboratories
IDL was founded in 1984 and has cemented itself as a globally recognised leader in heavy mineral exploration services.
In addition to processing and analysis services, we also offer comprehensive consultancy covering exploration planning, drilling, bulk sampling and reporting with confidentiality assured. Our staff are dedicated to giving the highest quality service. IDL’s combination of heavy mineral processing and magnetic separation techniques allow us to cater various situations.
IDL has developed kimberlite and laterite specific digests which offer considerable cost and efficiency improvements to conventional methods.
Processing
Interested in our processing services?
Contact us to enquire about how our options can best suit your project. We will provide further guidance for sending samples and pricing.
Separation
Wet tabling
Heavy liquid
Light liquid
Magnetic - 5 split twin disc (<2mm)
Ferric digest
Other processes
Sizing (Sieving) - 0.1 micron to 2.0mm
Crushing (jaw - sample size <500kg)
Milling (sample size <30kg)
Analysis
To learn more about our services for diamond and non-diamond indicators contact IDL
Observation
All observers are experienced in identifying heavy minerals. IDL provides a high quality mineral observation service at affordable rates.
We specialise in identifying
Diamond and indicators
Indicators for rare earth deposits
Gold, copper, iron ore
Analysis
IDL provides analysis services through our qualified and experienced team of mineralogists.
Analytical services include
Microscopic assessment
Recommendations
Referral for chemical testing
Notification of economic mineralisation
Note: Chrome Spinel Analysis for Kimberlite Affinity
Chrome spinel is an excellent pathfinder mineral for diamond exploration, particularly for determining distance from source in an alluvial system. It is also a common mineral. Routine probe analysis of chrome spinel without prior morphology assessment destroys more than 50% of the data available. Dependence on chemistry to determine diamond affinity. We therefore recommend ‘eye’ testing by a qualified mineralogist as a cheaper, more effective measure.
Pricing
All prices are quoted in Australian dollars. 10% GST (Goods and Services Tax) applies to Australian customers.
Pricing Schedule
Processing - $95 per hour*
Kimberlite digest - $79 per 10 kg per sample*
Ferric digest - $175 per 5 kg per sample
Observation - $85 per hour
Mineralogist - $123 per hour
Data entry - $41 per hour
Long Term Storage - $100 per pallet per month or by arrangement
Consulting - by arrangement
EXTERNAL TREATMENT AT COST
*Pricing may be adjusted for clay, iron content or other factors.
Contact our team
Tell us about your mineral processing or laboratory requirements. Based in Perth and servicing Australia and international clients, our team will review your project and respond with pricing and next steps.