Where do diamonds come from?

It is often said that diamonds are forever, but have you ever wondered where they come from? The word diamond is derived from the Greek word ‘adamas’ which means unbreakable and, since their discovery, diamonds are known to be one of the earth’s most precious minerals. In this article, we explore how diamonds are formed from the earth’s crust into the glistening rocks we see today. 

Where do most diamonds come from?

Natural diamonds take billions of years to form as they are made deep within the earth’s crust – this is named the ‘diamonds stability zone’. In this area, they are exposed to hot temperatures and high pressures, allowing them to form into a hard rock. During this process, the diamonds are exposed to different minerals and gasses, which can then alter the colour of the stone. In fact, many diamonds are mined with either a yellowish or brownish tint, although some rarer colours can be found such as pink and blue. Colourless diamonds, however, are still the most popular on the market.

After the diamonds have been formed underneath the crust, they are then shifted to the earth’s surface by seismic events, such as volcanic eruption. Some natural diamonds are formed through subduction sites - this is where tectonic plates are constantly moving underneath the earth’s surface. Studies suggest that subducted seawater also aids the creation of natural diamonds, meaning there are various ways in which diamonds can be formed.  

Diamonds are then discovered after they are exposed to the earth's surface, and are then able to be mined from large rocks named ‘xenoliths’. 

Synthetic diamonds

In the case of synthetic diamonds, otherwise known as lab grown diamonds, the creation process is a little bit different. These diamonds are formed by recreating the earth’s crust in a lab. Despite being created in this setting, lab diamonds still possess the same chemical and physical characteristics as a natural diamond would – and are still classed as diamonds, despite misconception that they are not the same as naturally mined diamonds.

Where do blood diamonds come from?

Whilst most diamonds are ethically sourced, unfortunately some are not – the term ‘blood diamonds’ refers to diamonds that have been produced through conflict and forced labour. Often, the miners who work in these mines are paid meagre wages or sometimes not even paid at all.

To combat blood diamonds, the Kimberley Process was established in 2003 – this international certification holds diamond manufacturers liable for their actions. By encouraging ethically sourced diamonds, consumers can also trace where their diamonds are coming from to ensure that their gems are conflict free. 

Here at Aspire Diamonds, all of our diamond jewellery is conflict free – we know how important it is to ensure our customers are provided with conflict free stones. Learn more about our conflict free diamonds now.

Now that you are all clued up on where diamonds come from, why not treat yourself to a sparkly new piece of jewellery? Browse our Aspire diamonds collection today, and please do not hesitate to contact our specialist team to find out more.