On the problem of transportability of kimberlite minerals relative to their source: The case of pyrope and picroilmenite

DOI: 10.47765/0869-5997-2026-10007

Abstract

Data on transportability of kimberlite minerals with increasing distance from their primary source are presented. It is argued that the degree of mechanical processing of kimberlite indicator mineral grains is the most reliable criterion for determining their transport distance. In contrast, determining the transport distances with the use of grain size distribution alone is called into question because of a close relationship of the percent ratios between the kimberlite mineral size classes to the hydrodynamic conditions. As the distance from the primary source increases, the original sculptures formed by the magmatic environment are abraded first, and only then does the grain shape evolve. Specific recommendations are presented for quantifying the transport distance of kimberlite indicator minerals relative to the primary source. A comprehensive graphical model is proposed for the dependence of the kimberlite minerals preservation degree on their transport distance. It is demonstrated that since kimberlite minerals wear is a function of the transport distance, the presence of rather significant quantities of their "fresh" grains and of completely worn minerals in the same aureole cannot be attributed to the same source.