When I first glimpsed a diamond’s dazzling brilliance, I was mesmerized. These nature’s shimmering masterpieces have ruled the hearts and imaginations of many for centuries. From adorning the crowns of kings to gracing the fingers of loved ones, these gem diamonds have woven their way through our shared histories, embodying power, luxury, and eternal bonds.
For me, the charm is not limited to the glimmer; it’s a deep connection to our collective culture, tales, and aspirations. Join me as I dig into the world of diamonds, solving the puzzles of their origins and the paths they’ve charted across our world to find out where diamonds are found. Let’s go!
Key Takeaways
- The first diamonds were discovered in ancient India around the 4th century B.C.
- Natural diamonds, often unearthed as rough diamonds, are the result of intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth, transforming carbon into these coveted gems.
- Currently, Russia is the leader in diamond production with around 40 millions carats per year.
- South Africa, with its well-known mines, plays a pivotal role in the diamond industry. However, diamond deposits scattered around the world contribute to the discovery of more diamonds, diversifying the sources of these precious stones.
- While large diamonds often capture global attention due to their rarity and value, many mines predominantly produce smaller stones, serving a vast segment of the jewelry market.
The Geology of Diamonds
Carbon is what diamonds are made of. When carbon atoms are subjected to immense pressure and temperatures ranging from 1,000 to 1,300°C, they crystallize to form diamonds. This transformation occurs at depths of about 150 to 200 kilometres beneath the Earth’s surface, within the thick, high-pressure layer known as the mantle. Here, the conditions are ripe for creating diamonds.
However, these gems don’t stay buried deep. A unique geological phenomenon brings them closer to the surface: volcanic eruptions. Unlike the lava-rich eruptions we commonly envision, the type that delivers diamonds is rare and particularly powerful. These eruptions force magma from the mantle at rapid speeds. As this magma ascends, it cools and solidifies to form carrot-shaped volcanic formations called kimberlite pipes.
Kimberlites are of immense interest to geologists and diamond miners alike. These pipes are composed of a mixture of minerals and, crucially, diamonds. They act as pathways, providing diamonds a route from their place of formation in the mantle to the Earth’s crust. Over millennia, erosion exposes sections of these pipes, making the diamonds within them accessible.
Where Exactly Are Diamonds Found? – A Comprehensive List of Diamond-Producing Countries
Ever since I became interested in the glint and gleam of diamonds, I’ve been equally intrigued by their origins. Going through the annals of diamond exploration, I’ve discovered that a select group of nations hold the honor of being the world’s gem-quality diamond producers. These leading diamond producers, with their rich geology and history of mining, are the heartbeats that find diamonds for the world’s commercial production of these sparkling gems. Let’s explore them below.
Russia
Russia, primarily through the diamond mining giant ALROSA, extensively mines diamonds in the expansive region of Yakutia. The Mir Diamond Mine, before its 2017 flooding, was an open pit reaching depths of about 525 meters, with plans to extend the underground portion to over 1,200 meters. The Udachnaya Pipe’s open-pit mining delved roughly 630 meters deep, while the Aikhal Underground Mine aims for depths around 200 meters, and the Botuobinskaya Open-Pit has operations that go down to about 200 meters.
Yakutia Region and Significant Mines
The heart of Russia’s natural gem-quality diamonds and its production pulses in the Yakutia region, also known as the Sakha Republic. Covering a staggering one-fifth of Russia’s landmass, this vast territory is a treasure trove of natural diamond mines, with chilling temperatures that ironically play host to the fiery brilliance of diamonds.
The Mirny diamond mine is particularly intriguing, a testament to Russia’s engineering prowess and tenacity. Dubbed the “Navel of the Earth,” this open pit mining is one of the deepest of its kind. It’s fascinating to think that what began as a small discovery in the 1950s by Soviet geologists has now morphed into a mining marvel.
Another standout in the Yakutia region is the Udachny mine. This mine, which translates to “Lucky” in Russian, lives up to its name. For decades, it has been a consistent contributor to Russia’s diamond output, producing millions of carats and serving as a beacon of the nation’s mineral wealth.
The Alrosa company emerged as a dominant name in the region’s diamond narrative. Responsible for the majority of Russia’s diamond extraction, Alrosa operates several mines in Yakutia and plays a pivotal role in positioning Russia as a heavyweight in the global diamond market.
The tales of Russian diamond mines paint a picture of resilience, innovation, and abundance. Russia, particularly the Yakutia region, isn’t just home to the Siberian cold; it’s also the cradle of gems that illuminate the world. According to Statista’s study of 2021, Russia’s diamond output reached over 39 million carats, witnessing a surge of approximately eight million carats from the prior year. The diamond yield in 2020 was the most modest since the recordings began in 2003. Following Botswana, Russia claimed the second-highest market valuation for diamond production globally in 2020.
Major Operating Diamond Mines in Russia
| Mine/project name | State | Mine method | Owners |
| Aikhal Mine | Sakha (Yakutia) Republic | Room and Pillar | ALROSA |
| Arkhangelsk Mine | Arkhangelsk Oblast | Open Pit | ALROSA; Undisclosed |
| Botuobinskaya Mine | Sakha (Yakutia) Republic | Open Pit | ALROSA |
| International Mine | Sakha (Yakutia) Republic | Cut and Fill | ALROSA |
| Jubilee Mine | Sakha (Yakutia) Republic | Open Pit | ALROSA |
| Karpinskogo 1 Project | Arkhangelsk Oblast | Open Pit | ALROSA |
| Nyurbinskaya Mine | Sakha (Yakutia) Republic | Open Pit | ALROSA; Ministry of Property Relations of Yakutia; Undisclosed |
| Udachny Mine | Sakha (Yakutia) Republic | Stoping | ALROSA |
| Verkhne-Munskoe Project | Sakha (Yakutia) Republic | Open Pit | ALROSA |
| Vladimir Grib Project | Arkhangelsk Oblast | Open Pit | Otkritie Holding |
Africa
The vast and diverse terrains of Africa have long whispered tales of hidden gems, and indeed, the following are the prominent places where diamonds are intricately woven into the continent’s rich tapestry. Diamonds in Africa are mined from both alluvial deposits and kimberlite pipes. The depth at which they are mined can vary significantly based on the type of deposit and the mining technique employed.
- The Cullinan Mine in South Africa, for example, has a depth of over 1,073 meters.
- The Jagersfontein Mine, another South African diamond mine, is about 275 meters deep.
- Venetia Diamond Mine, also in South Africa, is an open-pit mine that goes about 450 meters deep, but underground mining operations there aim to reach depths up to 1,000 meters.
- Orapa Mine in Botswana, one of the world’s largest diamond mines, operates at depths of up to 305 meters for its open-pit operations.
Botswana
Botswana, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, stands prominently as one of the world’s leading diamond producers. The discovery of diamonds transformed its economy and bolstered its status on the global stage. Renowned mines like Jwaneng and Orapa, considered among the world’s richest, play a significant role in making Botswana the epicenter of diamond mining in Africa. The country’s commitment to ethically sourced diamonds has also positioned it as a trusted player in the global diamond market.
In 2021, Botswana’s diamond production surged to an impressive 23 million carats, marking a 26 percent growth from the previous year. Despite this significant uptick, Botswana clinched the world’s second-largest diamond producer position.
South Africa
South Africa’s affair with diamonds dates back to 1867 when a 15-year-old boy discovered the Eureka Diamond, the nation’s first diamond. This find catalyzed what would become the world’s most prolific diamond rush. The legendary Kimberley Mine, also known as the “Big Hole”, symbolizes this era of exploration and exploitation.
Over the years, South Africa has maintained its reputation with operational mines like Venetia and Cullinan, which continue to yield high-quality diamonds. This nation’s diamond history is deeply interwoven with its socio-political fabric, marking periods of colonialism, war, and eventually, transformation.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
The DRC is endowed with vast natural resources, with diamonds being one of its major exports. Unlike Botswana and South Africa, which predominantly mine from kimberlite pipes, the DRC’s diamond deposits are largely alluvial. These surface deposits are spread across the vast landscapes of the Kasai region. While the DRC’s diamond sector is integral to its economy, it’s also been a source of contention. The term “blood diamonds” became associated with the nation during its years of conflict, as rebel groups used diamond revenues to fund civil wars.
Namibia
Namibia offers a unique dimension to Africa’s diamond mines narrative. While it has onshore deposits, Namibia is especially noted for its marine diamond deposits off its coast. Companies like Namdeb, a partnership between the Namibian government and De Beers, employ advanced marine technologies to extract diamonds from the seabed. The diamonds recovered here are often of exceptional quality and clarity, making them highly sought after in the global market.
Africa, with its rich tapestry of landscapes and histories, is undeniably at the heart of the world’s diamond industry. From the hinterlands of Botswana to the coastal waters of Namibia, the continent’s diamond story is as multifaceted as the gems it produces including industrial diamonds.
Canada
Canada’s vast and pristine landscapes, renowned for their natural beauty, are also home to significant diamond reserves, concealed beneath the country’s northern terrains.
Notable Mines like Diavik and Ekati
Tucked away in the remote regions of Canada’s Northwest Territories, the Diavik Diamond Mine stands as a beacon of modern mining engineering. Situated almost 190 mi south of the Arctic Circle, on an island in Lac de Gras, Diavik began its diamond production in the early 2000s. The mine is not just an architectural marvel, with its design ensuring minimal environmental impact, but also a significant contributor to the nation’s diamond output. This mine alone has produced millions of carats since its inception, with its treasures being renowned for their high quality.
Just a stone’s throw away from Diavik lies the Ekati Diamond Mine, Canada’s first-ever surface and underground diamond operation. Ekati, which means ‘Fat Lake’ in the indigenous Tłı̨chǫ language, began its operations in the late 1990s. What’s fascinating about Ekati is its series of kimberlite pipes and its rich deposits, which have consistently rendered diamonds of exceptional quality. The mine, over the decades, has played a pivotal role in establishing Canada as a significant player in the global diamond market.
Both Diavik and Ekati not only underscore Canada’s diamond prowess but also highlight the country’s commitment to sustainable and responsible mining. Despite the challenging climatic conditions, these mines have maintained high environmental standards, ensuring the protection of the surrounding delicate ecosystems.
Canada’s diamond mining companies are both intriguing and inspiring. The country, with its notable mines like Diavik and Ekati, has etched a firm place on the global diamond map. While the cold terrains may seem inhospitable, beneath them lie gems that sparkle with unmatched brilliance, reflecting Canada’s rich geology and diamond mining expertise.
Australia
Australia’s vast outback, often associated with unique wildlife and arid landscapes, surprisingly cradles one of the world’s most distinctive diamond sources.
The famous Argyle Diamond Mine
Nestled in the remote East Kimberley region of Western Australia, the Argyle Diamond Mine stands out not just as the country’s primary diamond producer, but also as one of the world’s most prolific sources of diamonds. What sets Argyle apart from other diamond mining sources globally is its abundance of pink diamonds, some of the rarest and most sought-after gems. These pink marvels, accounting for a significant chunk of the mine’s output, have made Argyle synonymous with luxury and rarity.
Since the start of its mining operations in 1983, Argyle has witnessed the extraction of over 800 million carats of diamonds. Though the mine primarily yields pink diamonds, it’s also a significant source of other color diamonds, including champagne, blue, and cognac hues. Such a diverse palette of gems has positioned Argyle as a unique entity in the global diamond market.
The Argyle diamond mine spans approximately 450,000 square meters or around 110 acres. Its layout extends mainly in a linear fashion for about 1,600 meters or 5,200 feet in length and varies in width from 150 to 600 meters or 500 to 2,000 feet. Constructed as an open pit, the mine’s greatest depth reaches roughly 600 meters or 1,900 feet.
In 2020, the mine ceased its operations, marking the end of an era. Its closure, however, has further fueled the allure of Argyle diamonds, as their scarcity now commands even higher premiums.
In essence, while Australia might not be the first name that springs to mind when one thinks of diamonds mined, the legacy of the Argyle Diamond Mine ensures that the nation holds a special place in the annals of diamond mining history.
Other Locations
Beyond the famed diamond strongholds of Botswana, Russia, and Canada, several other regions around the world hold hidden caches of these sparkling treasures. Let’s explore what other locations have diamond mining companies.
Brazil
Once a major rough diamond mining hub during the 17th century, Brazil’s alluvial deposits in the riverbeds were the world’s primary source of diamonds before the African diamond rush. Minas Gerais, a southeastern state, was particularly abundant in these gems. Though Brazil’s prominence in the diamond industry has diminished over time, overshadowed by African and Russian production, it still retains active mining areas. It plays a significant role in the global colored diamond market. Notably, Brazil’s deposits are often credited with a unique range of fancy-color diamonds, including rare hues of red and blue.
The majority of diamonds crystallized around 100 miles beneath the Earth’s surface. However, in the Brazilian region where Dr. Timmerman conducted his research, over 99% of diamonds are categorized as super-deep. These originate from the mantle’s transition zone, which lies between 254 and 410 miles deep.
India
Historically, India is the original home of diamond mining. The ancient Golconda region, now in modern-day Hyderabad, is famed for producing some of the world’s most legendary diamonds, including the Koh-i-Noor and the Hope Diamond. These mines were largely depleted by the 17th and 18th centuries, and while India’s contemporary contribution to the diamond industry revolves more around diamond cutting, polishing, and trading, the nation’s historical significance in the world of diamonds remains unmatched.
China
China is a relative newcomer to the diamond mining industry. Its history with diamonds, though brief, is impactful. The country saw its inaugural diamond manufacturing hubs in the 1980s, largely due to businesses shifting from Hong Kong to capitalize on China’s cost-effective labor. As the 1990s rolled in and China became increasingly accessible, diamond factories began setting up polishing units in burgeoning industrial zones, like Guangzhou, conveniently located near Hong Kong. Over time, the diversity of diamond products grew, and the craftsmanship significantly enhanced.
The nation’s primary deposits lie in the Liaoning Province, where diamond mining commenced in the 21st century. Though the quantity of genuine diamonds produced is modest compared to giants like Russia or Botswana, the quality, especially from the Changma Diamond Mine, is commendable. As China continues to grow its domestic diamond industry, there’s potential for increased production and global market influence.
In a nutshell, while countries like Botswana or Russia often dominate conversations about diamond mining, regions like Brazil, India, and China provide a rich tapestry of history, color, and diversity to global diamond consumption.
Diamond Yields In 2022
| Country | Diamond Yield (Million Carats) |
| Russia | 39 |
| Botswana | 24.1 |
| Australia | 17.4 |
| Canada | 16.87 |
| South Africa | 9.7 |
| China | 9 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Now let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding diamond mines and gem-quality diamonds.
Where are diamonds most commonly found?
Diamonds are most commonly found in kimberlite pipes in regions like Russia, Botswana, Canada, and Australia. They can also be found in alluvial deposits in places such as Namibia and Brazil.
Are diamonds found anywhere in the USA?
Yes, diamonds have been found in the USA, primarily at the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, where visitors can search for diamonds and keep what they find for a fee.
What rocks are diamonds found in?
Diamonds are primarily found in a type of volcanic rock called kimberlite, which originates deep within the Earth’s mantle and gets transported to the surface through volcanic eruptions.
Which countries produce the most gem diamonds?
The countries that produce the most gem diamonds are Botswana, Russia, Canada, and Australia. These nations lead the world in the volume and value of gem-quality diamond production.
Conclusion
Diamonds, with their mesmerizing sparkle, have left an indelible mark on human history and culture, symbolizing both affluence and deep sentiment. Their global footprint stretches from the icy expanses of Russia to the remote corners of Africa. As we’ve traveled through various regions via words, it becomes clear that while diamonds are geographically scattered, their enduring value remains universal. This precious gem, though often embroiled in ethical and environmental dilemmas, remains a testament to nature’s wonder and humanity’s quest for beauty and significance.
