Famous Diamond Mines

Diamonds are considered by many to be the world’s most precious of all natural stones. Whether they are used in an engagement or wedding rings, or simply as an addition to a stunning piece of jewelry, the diamond is a symbol of beauty and power. They are also found in the crowns of kinds and queens. Diamonds are found in various mines all over the world, however some of these mines are much better known for their location and the diamonds that have been found and continue to be found there. In Canada, the Akati Diamond Mine is the country’s very first diamond mining operation. It was officially opened in 1998 and is operated by the BHP Bilton group, one of the world’s largest natural resources companies. Since its opening, the mine has produced hundreds of thousands of carats. The Argyle Diamond Mine is the world’s largest diamond mining operation by volume, although not necessarily by value. Located in Australia, this mine covers 110 acres, and reaches down underground about 1,900 feet at its deepest part. The mine produces millions of carats of diamonds each year, although their quality and overall value is considered to be fairly low in the marketplace. The country of Africa is perhaps the most well known for its diamond production. The Williamson Diamond Mine is one of the most famous in the world and is located in Tanzania. One of the most famous stones to come out of the Williamson Diamond Mine was a huge 54 carat pink stone that was later given to Princess Elizabeth and Prince Phillip as a wedding gift in 1947. Many claim the stone was already perfect when it was found.

America is known for some famous diamond mines as well. The Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas is the only public diamond mine in the entire world. Here, visitors from all over can come and search for their own valuable stones. The site is 37 acres of plowed field which is the eroded surface of an ancient volcanic pipe. Anyone who comes to visit the Crater of Diamonds is encourage bringing their mining gear, doing some serious diamond searching, and has a fun adventure. In 1956, a visitor found a large 15.3 carat diamond, making the location a very popular tourist attraction. Perhaps the most famous diamond mine of all is the De Beers mine, owned and operated by the world famous De Beers Company. This company practically has a monopoly on the entire diamond mining industry, simply because of their centuries of outstanding quality and cuts. De Beers was founded in 1888 in the United States, but has since taken over the diamond mining industry for much of Africa, where diamonds are prevalent. De Beers coined the very famous phrase “A Diamond is forever,” making it one of the most widely recognized advertising campaigns in the diamond business. The mines are now a worldwide operation, and the company has license to sell its diamonds in retail stores all over the globe.

Sources: www.wikipedia.com
http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/park.asp?id=22