Where do diamonds come from?

Where diamonds are mined mostly: Africa

Where do diamonds come from mostly? Africa as a continent provides almost half the current supply of diamonds. With the discovery of diamonds in the Cape Colony in South Africa in 1867, annual world diamond production experienced a catapult rise in the subsequent years. Central and Southern Africa are the most extensive places where diamonds are mined; major producing African countries include Congo, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. Congo alone contributes almost 18% of world production. You will recognize the major names who have left an imprint in the African diamond industry: De Beers, Cecil John Rhodes, Barney Barnato and Kimberleg. Unfortunately, diamonds also fuel war across much of the continent. Refer to the listing on what are conflict diamonds here.

Outside Africa: where are diamonds found?

Outside Africa, where do diamonds come from as well? Other important supply areas where diamonds are found include Australia, North America, India, Russia, Brazil and Venezuela. Australia is the single most prolific diamond producer in the world, and contributes almost 40 million carats a year. One of the most well known mines there: the Argyle mine, which has since produced more than 250 million carats.

Production in decline :: Where diamonds come from

Until 1730, India was the world’s only source of diamonds. It was also the source of many legendary diamonds including the Hope Diamond, the Koh-i-Noor and the Sancy. However, as deposits were exhausted, Indian diamond production has since declined significantly; the Majhgawan pipe is now the country’s only diamond producing source.

Brazil followed India. As Indian diamond sources neared depletion, diamonds were discovered in Brazil by alluvial gold miners. Diamond production thus increased at unprecedented rates, leading diamond prices to fall significantly. However, as Brazilian deposits were largely secondary diamond deposits, they were small and usually operated only for short periods of time.

What and Where is the hope diamond?

Ironically known for the misfortune it places on its owner, the hope diamond has spawned a history of mysteries. Originally mined in India, the 112 3/16-carat diamond then has moved through many hands: Tavernier (a French merchant traveler), King Louis XIV of France, King George IV of England, Henry Philip Hope, Evalyn McLean at Cartier. Nonetheless, since placed at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, there have been no unusual incidents related to it.