Frozen Lava Yields New Diamond Type, Reports Russian Ministry

The Russian Ministry of Science has claimed that scientists there have discovered a new type of diamond.

According to a report in the Siberian Times, the diamonds were discovered in the frozen lava of the Tolbachik volcano, which is located on the Kamchatka peninsula in the far east region of Russian.

“The solidified lava of the Tolbachik eruption (2012–2013) carries within it a new and never-before-seen type of diamond,” the ministry said in a statement. “According to the Russian geologists, these unique diamonds are not formed in the magmatic melt, but are created by volcanic gases under pressure and as a result of crystallization under the influence of electrical discharges of lightning.” 

They have named the newly discovered gems Tolbachik diamonds.

The diamonds in the sample numbered in the hundreds and measured 250–270 microns each. They were identified using electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction. The ministry said that the stones are nearly identical to synthetic diamonds.

JCK contacted the GIA for confirmation on the find but were told by a spokesperson that since the GIA has not yet seen the diamonds, it cannot comment at this time. 


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