How diamonds come to the surface of the Earth

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(ORDO NEWS) — Diamonds, precious stones that have fascinated people for many centuries, have always been shrouded in mystery. It is believed that the age of these exquisite stones, formed under enormous pressure in the bowels of the Earth, is hundreds or even billions of years old. But how do they get to the surface? This question has puzzled scientists for many years, but it has not yet been resolved.

A groundbreaking study led by the Universities of Southampton and Birmingham has revealed the secret behind the eruptions of diamond-rich magmas from deep within the Earth. The researchers found that the rupture of tectonic plates plays a key role in this process.

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To study the relationship between continental rupture and kimberlite volcanism, in which diamonds are commonly found, experts used statistical analysis and machine learning algorithms. The results of the study showed that most kimberlite eruptions occurred 20-30 million years after the initial tectonic fault.

Study co-author Stephen Jones, Associate Professor of Earth Systems at Birmingham, explains: “We found that the domino effect could explain how continental rips create kimberlite magma. similar flows under the neighboring continent”.

Analyzing geospatial data, the researchers found that kimberlite eruptions gradually migrate from the edges of continents to their interior regions over time. This pattern prompted them to study the geological processes responsible for this phenomenon.

Experts have found that rifting, or stretching, of the Earth’s crust can lead to disruption of the Earth’s mantle, even at a distance of thousands of kilometers. These disruptions cause a domino effect that eventually leads to the eruption of diamond-rich magmas.

Study lead author Tom Gernon, assistant professor of geosciences at Southampton, said: diamonds suddenly erupt after spending millions – or billions – of years below the earth’s surface at a depth of 150 km.”

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These revolutionary discoveries not only shed light on the formation and eruption of diamonds, but also have practical implications. The ability to determine the places and times of volcanic eruptions in the past associated with these processes can lead to the discovery of new diamond deposits.

Diamond deposits are mainly found in kimberlite pipes, which are of volcanic origin. These pipes originate deep in the Earth’s mantle, more than 100 miles below the surface, where conditions are optimal for diamond formation.

In conclusion, it should be noted that this study helped solve the long-standing mystery of how diamonds get to the Earth’s surface. By understanding the role of rupture of tectonic plates and the domino effect it causes, scientists will now be able to delve deeper into diamond deposits. According to lead author Tom Gernon, “we have finally uncovered the secrets of these gems that have been hidden under our feet for millions of years.”

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