How Diamonds Are Formed
Diamond is derived from ‘Adamas’, a Greek word which means indestructible. Diamonds are the only gems in the world made up of a single element, which is carbon. Made up entirely of carbon atoms, they are formed in an isometric arrangement.
Diamonds are formed somewhere around 120 – 200 kilometers or 75 – 120 miles below the surface of the earth. Geological experts state that diamonds were first formed around 2.5 billion years ago, with the most recent diamonds formed some forty five million years ago.
The carbon, which makes this brilliant gemstone, is formed when the pre-existing rocks located in the upper mantle of Earth melt. Due to changes in temperature in this upper mantle, the carbon atoms located here are then forced to move even deeper, after which they melt and then turn into a brand new rock once the temperature reduces. If all the other conditions are right, like for instance pressure and chemistry, then this melting rock along with the carbon atoms gel together, making diamond crystals.
Deposits of diamonds are referred to as Blue Ground, Kimberlite Pipes or Primary Mines. Diamonds are also found in river beds, which are called Alluvial Deposits.
The process that goes into making a diamond is a fairly long process for Mother Nature, taking into consideration that it does take a few million years to make. Interestingly, all diamonds that are mined are not made into jewelry. Only twenty five percent is. Interestingly, one hundred tons of mud produces just one carat of a diamond.