The Diamond Mines of South Africa Some Account of their Rise and Development [Paperback]

First published in 1902, this work describes the discovery and development of diamond mines in South Africa.Written by the first general manager of De Beers Consolidated Mines, this impressively detailed study describes the discovery of diamonds in South Africa and the development of mines and methods of mining in that country. First published in 1902, The Diamond Mines contains over 500 illustrations.Written by the first general manager of De Beers Consolidated Mines, this impressively detailed study describes the discovery of diamonds in South Africa and the development of mines and methods of mining in that country. First published in 1902, The Diamond Mines contains over 500 illustrations.A life-long friend of Cecil Rhodes, Garner F. Williams (18421922) was the first general manager of the De Beers Consolidated Mines, which once produced 95% of the diamond yield of the world. First published in 1902, this work opens with a chapter on notable historical diamonds, and goes on to describe the initial discovery of diamonds in South Africa, the development of mines, the mining methods adopted, the welfare of the miners and a history of the whole diamond-producing region. Williams also includes an appendix, which describes the mechanical workings of winding engines and pumps, and the value of different types of coals, and provides a table listing the yearly yield of the mines since 1888. Nearly 700 pages long, The Diamond Mines of South Africa contains over 500 illustrations and maps.1. The ancient adamas; 2. In traditional Ophir land; 3. The pioneer advance; 4. The discovery; 5. The camps on the Vaal; 6. The rush to Kimberley; 7. The great white camps; 8. Opening the craters; 9. The moving men; 10. The essential combination; 11. Systematic mining; 12. Winning the diamonds; 13. Obstacles and perils; 14. The workers in the mines; 15. The mining towns; 16. Formation of the diamond; 17. The diamond market; 18. Cutting and polishing; 19. An uplifting power; Appendix; Indl#Q