From Earth’s Depths to Dazzling Gems: The Science Behind Diamond Formation

Diamonds are one of the most popular stones on the market, but how much do you really know about them? For example, did you know that diamonds are actually made of carbon? The same exact chemical that forms the graphite tip of your pencil, just structurally different on a molecular level. Or that they're formed deep within the Earth's mantle? Keep reading to learn all about the fascinating process that creates these precious gems.

The Earth's Mantle

All diamonds begin their journey deep within the Earth's mantle. This is a layer of the Earth that sits beneath the crust and is composed of hot rock that is constantly in motion. The temperatures and pressures found at this great depth are incredibly high, and it's here where diamonds are formed.

Diamonds are created when a small amount of carbon-bearing material is subjected to extreme pressure and heat. This can happen in one of two ways. The first (and most common) is when a "diamond seed" crystal is forced upward into the Earth's mantle by a volcanic eruption. Once there, it meets with other pieces of carbon-bearing material and grows larger over time.

The second way diamonds can be formed is when two continental plates collide. This type of collision results in what's known as an "ultra-high-pressure environment." Here, the high pressures force bits of carbon-bearing material into tiny diamond crystals.

The Journey to the Surface

Eventually, any diamonds that have been formed in the Earth's mantle will make their way toward the surface. This can happen through a few different methods, but the most common is through what's known as Kimberlite pipes. Kimberlite pipes are columns of kimberlite—a type of igneous rock—that form when magma rises to the surface and then cools rapidly. As magma forces its way through cracks in the Earth's surface, any diamonds that are present are carried along with it and eventually deposited at the surface.

The next time you're admiring a diamond ring or necklace, remember all of the incredible geological processes that had to take place for that diamond to exist! From deep within the Earth's mantle to being carried to the surface inside a kimberlite pipe, it truly is a fascinating journey. And who knows? The diamond you're admiring might even be billions of years old!