Stornoway Provides Processing Update for the Renard Diamond Mine

Stornoway Diamond (TSX:SWY) has provided a diamond processing update on its Renard Diamond Mine in relation to the quarter ended September 30, 2016.
As quoted in the press release:

First ore was introduced to the Renard diamond plant on July 15, 2016. As of the quarter end, 91,010 tonnes of ore had been processed with attributable carat production of 111,556 carats, representing an average grade of 123 carats per hundred tonnes. 21 stones were recovered during the quarter larger than 10.8 carats in size (`specials`).
First Diamond Sale
Stornoway is pleased to announce that its first sale of Renard diamonds will be held in Antwerp, Belgium starting on November 14^th, 2016. This is two months earlier than previously anticipated.
Ore Processing Report
Ore processing and diamond recovery during July and early August were irregular as plant equipment and material balancing issues were identified and addressed. The plant’s crushing and recovery circuits have performed well, but modifications have been required to the manner in which processed kimberlite is de-watered prior to disposal. These modifications are ongoing, and represent the principal limiting factor on the rate of ramp-up. Nevertheless, during the month of September ore processing was achieved on a continuous basis at an average run-rate of 1,792 tonnes per day, representing 30% of plant nameplate capacity. Peak processing run-rate achieved during September was 3,130 tonnes per day, or 52% of nameplate capacity. Commercial production at Renard is defined as 60% of nameplate capacity for a 30-day period. This is expected to be achieved, on schedule, by December 31, 2016.

Click here to read the full press release.