Where is Diamond found?
Carbon (C)
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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
Russia (Siberia)
Major producer, particularly from the Mir and Udachnaya kimberlite pipes. Significant production from alluvial deposits as well.
Botswana
Leading producer by value and volume, with large kimberlite mines like Orapa, Jwaneng, and Letlhakane.
Democratic Republic of Congo
Significant producer, primarily from alluvial deposits.
Australia
Historically known for the Argyle mine (now closed), which was a major source of pink and red diamonds, and also produced a large volume of industrial diamonds. Other smaller kimberlite and lamproite occurrences exist.
Canada
Relatively new but significant producer, with mines like Ekati, Diavik, and Gahcho Kué in the Northwest Territories.
South Africa
Historically the most famous diamond-producing country, with iconic mines like Kimberley, Cullinan (Premier), and Finsch. Still a significant producer.
Angola
Growing producer, with both kimberlite and alluvial deposits.
Brazil
Historically important for alluvial diamonds, with ongoing smaller-scale production.
Collecting tips
- Primary Deposits (Kimberlite/Lamproite Pipes). Diamonds are found within the weathered or unweathered rock of kimberlite or lamproite pipes. These are typically circular to elliptical intrusions. Prospecting involves geological mapping, geophysical surveys (magnetic, electromagnetic), and indicator mineral sampling (e.g., pyrope garnet, ilmenite, chromite, olivine, clinopyroxene, zircon, rutile, monazite, apatite, and spinel, which are often found alongside diamonds in kimberlite).
- Secondary Deposits (Alluvial/Placer Deposits). Diamonds are eroded from primary sources and transported by water, accumulating in riverbeds, ancient river channels, and coastal areas. Prospecting involves sampling gravels, sands, and conglomerates in these environments. Heavy mineral separation techniques are used to concentrate potential diamond-bearing material.
- Safety and Regulations. Diamond prospecting and mining are often subject to strict regulations and require permits. Many diamond-producing regions have complex socio-political landscapes, and 'blood diamonds' or 'conflict diamonds' are a serious ethical concern. Always ensure any diamond acquisition adheres to the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme to prevent trade in conflict diamonds. For amateur collectors, finding diamonds in situ is extremely rare and typically requires specialized knowledge and equipment. It is generally not advisable for hobbyists to attempt to prospect for diamonds in primary or secondary deposits without proper training, permits, and safety precautions.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Colorless to various hues (yellow, brown, blue, pink, etc.)
- Luster:
- Adamantine
- Streak:
- Colorless (as it is harder than the streak plate)
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