1. Deep Beneath the Earth: Diamonds form at depths of 100 to 200 miles (160 to 320 kilometers) within the Earth's mantle. This is a layer of hot, dense rock that lies beneath the Earth's crust.
2. Carbon Source: The raw material for diamonds is carbon, which exists in various forms in the mantle.
3. Extreme Pressure: The immense pressure at these depths squeezes the carbon atoms together, forcing them into a tightly packed, crystalline structure.
4. High Temperature: The intense heat of the mantle, reaching up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit (1100 degrees Celsius), plays a crucial role. It helps the carbon atoms bond together and also provides the energy needed for the transformation.
5. Crystallization: The carbon atoms arrange themselves in a tightly bound, three-dimensional structure called a crystal lattice. This structure, with its unique arrangement of carbon atoms, gives diamond its exceptional hardness and brilliance.
6. Volcanic Eruptions: Diamonds are brought to the Earth's surface by volcanic eruptions. These eruptions carry deep mantle rocks called kimberlite to the surface, where the diamonds are found embedded.
7. Mining: Once the kimberlite reaches the surface, it is mined, and the diamonds are extracted. The diamonds are then sorted, cut, and polished to reveal their beauty and brilliance.
It's important to note that the process of diamond formation takes millions of years. The extreme conditions and time required for the transformation of carbon to diamond are what make diamonds such rare and valuable gems.