[opty_yoast_breadcrumb]

Diamonds are the most popular gemstone all over the world.

Why Do We Mine Diamonds?

Diamonds are most definitely the favorite gemstone of all, especially among jewelry shoppers in the United States and throughout the world. The United States is the largest consumer of diamonds in the world accounting for almost 40% of Diamond purchases. So what is the process of diamond mining? Where exactly are they found in the ground? And how far do miners have to go to find them?

Well, as your top choice for Austin Diamond Buyers, we are here to share all the industry secrets with you. And if you remember our earlier post on how we Eliminate the Middleman, then you will remember that we also provide the best prices for your diamonds.

Now, back to the mines…

Diamond Mining in the United States

Even though the United States is the largest consumer of gem-quality diamonds, there is no commercial mine production in the US. The only mine in the US that produces gem-quality diamonds is The Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, where guests can pay a small fee to mine for diamonds inside the park. And best of all, the rule of “finders keepers” applies here.

How are Diamonds Mined?

The process of diamond creation begins 100 miles underground where tremendous heat and pressure crystallize carbon into rough diamonds. Since the 1870s, most of the world’s gem-quality diamonds have been mined in Africa. Today, Diamond mining is also common in Russia and Canada and continues to grow. Pit-mining is the most popular way to recover diamonds. Pit mining requires the use of heavy machinery, hydraulic shovels, and trucks to mine diamonds from the depths of kimberlite pipes.

Another common mining method is open-pit mining which is possible only when diamonds are found on the surface. Diamonds are also mined from the seabed using horizontal and vertical marine mining. Mining from the sea requires going to depths of up to 1,000 meters.

Diamonds have been on the Earth for more than a million years…

Rough Diamonds

After diamonds are mined they are put in categories and are measured, weighed, and sorted before cutting them. Diamonds are then sorted again by weight, color, and clarity. Rough diamonds are sorted into three categories gem quality, industrial quality, and boart. Once this whole diamond sorting process is complete, the diamond cutting process begins.

Diamonds are valued based on numerous factors known as the 4C’s of diamond grading. When you come to us to sell your diamonds we’ll explain to you the whole process and help you get the best price.

Diamond mining is a long process that started millions of years ago. At M.I. Trading LLC, we’ll buy your diamond no matter which diamond mining process it went through to get to you. We are your premier diamond buyer in Austin, Texas. Bring your diamond in for a no obligation appraisal today.

If you enjoyed this post, you’ll love our post on how to spot a fake diamond!