New Delhi: If we consider merely the definition of science, a diamond is a solid form of the element carbon whose atoms are arranged in a crystal structure known as diamond cubic. Among all the natural materials, it has the highest hardness and thermal conductivity and it is used in major industrial applications including cutting and polishing tools. But beyond these facts, diamond has great cultural and financial value. It is cherished by all, from the kings and emperors and their wives in the past to the common people at present. Diamond is something that everybody wants to own and cherish. In this article, we will take a look at some of the largest diamond mines in the world.
Largest diamond mines in the world
1. Aikhal
The Aikhal mine in Russia is said to be the world’s largest diamond mine. Located in Sakha to the east of Russia, it contains as per estimates 175.56 million carats of reserves. From 1961 to 1997, it was an open pit mine but it later switched to underground mining.
2. Jwaneng
Located in Botswana, it is the world’s second-largest diamond mine. Situated in the Kalahari Desert, it yields about 350 meters underground and its full depth of 625 m is yet to be explored. In 2022, it produced 13.5 million carats of diamonds according to estimates.
3. Udachny
The word Udachny means ‘lucky’ and it is located in Russia’s Yakutia region. Alrosa Mining owns it and the mine has reserves of 164 million carats. Alrosa developed underground mining at Udachny to protect the resources. It was discovered in June 1955.
4. Nyurba
Nyurba in Russia mines from three deposits and together they hold 133 million reserves as of July 2018. In 2000, open pit mining was started by the Nyurbinskaya Pipe and is now mining at midway with the projected final depth at 750 meters.
5. Orapa
Orapa is an open pit mine in Botswana. Since 1971, it has been producing an estimated 131.2 million metric tons of reserves. The mine is set to operate till 2036 and it is the oldest of the country’s four mines. By 2026, the depth of mining is expected to reach 350 m. The mine has a volcanic pipe split into two.
Diamond has great cultural and financial value. It is cherished by all, from the kings and emperors and their wives in the past to the common people at present. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
