The Journey of Diamonds: From Depths to Display

New research suggests that the eruption of diamonds from deep within the Earth's crust is linked to the breakup of tectonic plates. The study found that most kimberlite volcanoes, which carry diamonds to the surface, erupted 20 to 30 million years after the tectonic breakup of Earth's continents. Computer models propose a domino effect, where the breakup of continents leads to the formation of kimberlite magma. This process involves disruptive flows that remove rock from the base of the continental plate, triggering melting and the rise of magma carrying diamonds. The findings could help identify potential locations and timings of past volcanic eruptions, aiding in the discovery of diamond deposits and other rare elements.