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Gondwana Gold and Diamonds
October 2002 by Edgar B. Heylmun, PhD
Some 250 million years ago, the Earth had just one supercontinent, known as “Pangaea.” For whatever reason, the supercontinent began to break apart. South America and Africa remained joined, as “Gondwana,” until 65 million years ago, when they split apart. The obvious “fit” of South America with Africa was noted by geologists back in the 19th century, but it was not until Alfred Wegener came out with his “continental drift” hypothesis in 1912 that people took note.Land of Golden Dreams—California in the Gold Rush Decade
San Marino, California—"Boys, I believe I have found a gold mine!" With these simple words, an obscure New Jersey carpenter and mechanic named James W. Marshall set in motion a global cascade of events that dramatically shaped the social and economic life of California and the American West.
Finding Gold with a VLF Detector—Part II
![](http://www.icmj.com/userfiles/images/201405/TOC-vlf.jpg)
12-Year-Old Unearths Large Diamond
It is the eighth largest brown diamond to be found and certified by park staff.
The Perfect Response
In May, 2016, the Andersons received a letter from Steve Niemela at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife requesting access to their property to conduct surveys for “foothill yellow-legged frogs and other amphibians.”
Melman on Gold & Silver
As noted above, the “Ring of Fire” is an area of great potential mineral wealth located in the far northern Ontario Province of Canada. Many companies have sent in exploration and development teams…
The Bawl Mill
Normally this spot is reserved for a little humor or diatribe about government abuse. In light of recent events, I don’t think it’s appropriate for this issue. Following are a few personal comments.
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