A Tribute to the Life of Dr Richard Pieter Viljoen
- DFO
Dr Richard Pieter Viljoen (1940-2025)
Richard Pieter Viljoen passed away on 22 November 2025 at the age of 85 following complications from heart surgery. He was predeceased by his identical twin brother, Morris, in 2021. He is survived by his wife, Miranda, and his son, Anthony.
Born in Johannesburg on 21 July 1940, Richard and his twin shared a lifelong bond. After schooling at Highlands North High, both studied geology at the University of the Witwatersrand, completing their BSc, Honours and MSc degrees by the early 1960s under Professor Des Pretorius.
Their early research led to one of their most significant contributions: the identification of komatiites, a new class of ultramafic volcanic rocks first described in the Barberton greenstone belt. This discovery had global impact, with similar rocks later identified in ancient terrains worldwide.
Richard joined the Johannesburg Consolidated Investment Company in 1963, where he established himself as a leading exploration geologist. In 1983, he became Chief Consulting Geologist at Gold Fields, contributing to major discoveries including the Northam platinum mine and Tarkwa gold mine. His work spanned multiple continents and commodities.
He was deeply committed to the geological profession, serving twice as President of the Geological Society of South Africa and contributing to international initiatives, including the 35th International Geological Congress in 2016. His achievements were recognised with numerous awards, including the Lindgren Award and the Council for Geoscience’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
After retirement, Richard remained active in academia and industry, serving as an Honorary Professor at Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ and advising on exploration ventures through the Viljoen Mojapelo Investment Company.
Richard Viljoen leaves a legacy of scientific excellence, leadership and mentorship. His contributions, alongside those of his twin brother, shaped modern geological understanding and inspired generations of geoscientists.