Study uncovers deep-Earth origins of world’s largest diamonds

A new study by University of Cape Town found that some of the world’s largest and most valuable diamonds likely formed deep in the Earth’s mantle within unusual iron-rich zones.

Researchers studied rare diamonds called CLIPPIRs, including diamonds similar to the famous Cullinan Diamond, and found they are linked to kimberlite rocks originating more than 150 km underground.

The study suggests these diamonds formed from ancient oceanic crust that sank into the mantle through subduction and later became part of iron-rich regions beneath continents.

Lead researcher Geoffrey Howarth said the findings help explain how these giant diamonds formed and could improve future diamond exploration.

Credit : CGTN