Thesis title: Geochemical comparison of on-craton kimberlites across Lesotho

Research interests: Hypabyssal kimberlites, Garnet peridotite mantle xenoliths, Geochemistry, sublithospheric diamonds

This research will focus on the whole rock major and trace element composition and mineral chemistry of fresh hypabyssal samples from four kimberlites from northeastern to western Lesotho, all located on the Archean Kaapvaal craton. The study will focus on constraining the depth and degree of partial melting, the composition of the mantle source(s) and correlations of melting and source parameters with location and lithospheric thickness. A comparison of the geochemistry of these kimberlites with southern African kimberlites from nearby locations may help to inform why Lesotho kimberlites tend to be more dominated by sublithospheric diamonds than kimberlites from surrounding regions.

Supervisor/s: Prof. P.E. Janney

Degrees: 

1. BSc in Geological Sciences and Ocean & Atmospheric Sciences, UCT (2024)

Awards:

1. UCT Plus Gold 60 hrs in elected leadership role
2. UCT Plus Bronze 35hrs role-modelling leadership