Diamond Mines
The process of extracting diamonds from the Earth’s crust involves various stages, including exploration, extraction, processing, and sorting.
Diamond deposits can be found in both primary and secondary sources, such as kimberlite pipes, alluvial gravels, and marine deposits.
Kimberlite Pipe Mining (primary deposit)
Kimberlite Pipe Mining is a method used to extract diamonds from kimberlite pipes, which are vertical columns of diamond-bearing rock that extend deep into the Earth’s crust.
There are specifically two types: open-pit mining and underground mining.
Open-pit mining involves removing overlying soil and rock to access the diamond bearing-ore
Underground mining involves accessing and extracting diamond deposits from beneath the Earth’s surface by creating tunnels and shafts to reach the diamond-bearing ore.
Alluvial Mining (secondary deposit)
Alluvial mining is a method of diamond mining that involves the extraction of diamonds from alluvial deposits, which are loose, unconsolidated sediments such as gravel, sand, and clay that have been deposited by water.
It typically occurs in riverbeds, floodplains, or coastal areas where water currents have transported and deposited diamonds.
Marine Mining
Marine mining, also known as offshore diamond mining, is the process of extracting diamonds from the seabed.
Specialized vessels equipped with advanced technologies are used to explore and mine diamond-rich areas located offshore. These vessels deploy equipment such as suction pipes or remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) to excavate diamond-bearing gravel or sediment from the seabed.
Top Diamond Producing Countries
Russia, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, Australia, Canada, Angola, and Namibia are key diamond-producing countries. They have significant impacts on the global diamond industry and supply high-quality gems worldwide.
