Where is Diamond found?
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Open the appDiamond occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Diamond
Botswana
Leading producer of gem-quality diamonds, primarily from kimberlite pipes like Orapa, Jwaneng, and Letlhakane.
Russia
Significant producer of both gem and industrial diamonds, with major kimberlite pipes in Siberia (e.g., Mir, Udachnaya).
Canada
Relatively new but significant producer, with major kimberlite mines in the Northwest Territories (e.g., Ekati, Diavik, Gahcho Kué).
Australia
Historically a major producer, particularly of fancy colored diamonds (pink, red) from the Argyle lamproite mine (now closed), and industrial diamonds.
South Africa
Historically the most famous diamond-producing country, with iconic kimberlite pipes like Kimberley (Big Hole) and Cullinan (Premier).
Angola
Significant producer of both alluvial and kimberlite diamonds.
Collecting tips
- Primary Deposits (Kimberlite/Lamproite Pipes). Diamonds are found within these igneous rocks. Prospecting involves identifying these specific rock types, often through geophysical surveys and indicator mineral sampling (e.g., pyrope garnet, ilmenite, chromite).
- Secondary Deposits (Alluvial/Placer Deposits). Diamonds, being dense and resistant to weathering, accumulate in riverbeds, ancient river channels, and coastal areas. Prospecting involves sampling gravels and concentrates for diamonds. Look for areas downstream from known or suspected primary sources.
- Indicator Minerals. When prospecting for diamonds, look for 'indicator minerals' such as pyrope garnet (often purple-red), chromite, ilmenite, and chrome diopside. These minerals are commonly found alongside diamonds in kimberlite and lamproite and are more abundant and easier to spot.
- Density Separation. Diamonds have a relatively high specific gravity (3.5-3.53). In alluvial settings, panning or sluicing can help concentrate heavier minerals, including diamonds, from lighter sediments.
- UV Fluorescence. Some diamonds fluoresce under ultraviolet light (typically blue, but can be other colors). This can be a useful, though not definitive, identification tool.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Colorless to various colors
- Luster:
- Adamantine
- Streak:
- Colorless (as it is harder than the streak plate)
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