In January 1906, George F. Kunz speculated that these diamonds were glacial erratics that had been transported from an unknown site in Canada. Chuck Fipke and Stewart Blusson are credited with the discovery of the first diamond mines found in Canada in the mid 1990s.
How were diamonds formed in Canada?
Formation. Over one billion years ago, the North’s diamonds formed deep within the earth. Volcanic eruptions of molten rock, known as kimberlite, which occurred approximately 55 million years ago in Canada’s remote tundra, would bring these precious gems to the surface. The molten rock would then cool and solidify.
How were diamonds discovered?
Diamonds were discovered in the pans of gold miners as they sifted through the gravels of local rivers. Once it reached its full potential, Brazil dominated the diamond market for more than 150 years. While sources changed, the diamond market experienced its own evolution.
When was the first diamond found in Canada?
1991
The first discovery of diamonds in Canada occurred in 1991 at Point Lake near Lac de Gras in the Northwest Territories, 300 km northeast of Yellowknife. In October 1998 diamonds were mined in Canada for the first time, at the Ekati mine near Lac de Gras.
Why are diamonds found in Canada?
Like South Africa, Canada is underlain by a huge craton known as “archon,” consisting of rocks older than 2500 million years. According to global studies of the distribution of diamond-bearing kimberlites, these types of rocks are mainly found within ancient cratons such as the ones that underlay parts of Canada.
Who discovered Canadian diamonds?
History of mining
It was not until 1991 that diamonds were officially discovered by non-indigenous people, specifically, by two geologists named Chuck Fipke and Stewart Blusson. This discovery lead to the first diamond mine in the NWT in 1998 called Ekati and initially operated by BHP Billiton.
Are Blood diamonds illegal in Canada?
Canada has now passed several laws that help stop the trade of conflict diamonds. The laws deal with the export and import of rough diamonds, and also how they are transferred. In December 2002, the Export and Import of Rough Diamonds Act was passed by the Canadian government.
Who found the first diamond on Earth?
According to some, the original discovery of diamonds was made between 2500 and 1700 BC by the Dravidians in India during the Indus Valley Civilization in the Bronze Age. Others believe the first diamonds were discovered in India closer to 1000 BC.
Who found diamond for the first time?
In 1866, 15-year-old Erasmus Jacobs was exploring the banks of the Orange River when he came across what he thought was an ordinary pebble, but turned out to be a 21.25-carat diamond. In 1871, a colossal 83.50-carat deposit was unearthed on a shallow hill called Colesberg Kopje.
Where did diamond come from on Earth?
Diamonds were first discovered and mined in India over 2,400 years ago. Over time, diamonds were found in many other areas around the world, including many in Africa. In today’s trade, Africa, Russia, Australia, and Canada produce the most diamonds.
Are Canadian diamonds blood diamonds?
Canadian diamonds are diamonds that are somewhat similar to other types of natural diamonds, except for their origin. Canadian Diamonds are free from conflict, which is why it is sought after even more than regular diamonds.
Is Canada rich in diamonds?
This map of Canada shows the locations of five active diamond mines, two past-producing diamond mines and one advanced project, by province and territory. The Ekati, Diavik and Gahcho Kué mines are located about 300 kilometres northeast of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories.
How old are Canadian diamonds?
They formed 3.5 billion years ago in an era called the Archean when the Earth was forming its first continents.
Why is it so hard to find diamonds in Canada?
The Northwest Territories, where most of these diamonds are found, has a subarctic to polar climate. It can be a challenge to survive in the ice and snow of northern Canada, let alone find diamonds.
Why are Canadian diamonds unique?
Canadian diamonds are highly regarded because Canadian diamond mines have some of the world’s highest environmental standards. They are also conflict-free, having undergone a certification process that allows the stones to be tracked from mine through manufacturing, wholesaling and to the retail consumer.
What was Canada’s first diamond mine?
Victor Mine, the first commercial diamond deposit discovered in Canada, ended production in May 2019. The deposit was discovered in 1988 and production began in 2008. Over its life, more than 8.2 million carats of diamonds were recovered at Ontario’s first and only diamond mine.
Where can I find raw diamonds in Canada?
mines rough diamonds from the Ekati Diamond Mine, located in Canada’s Northwest Territories. Ekati is Canada’s first surface and underground diamond mine and is renowned for the premium gem quality diamonds it produces.
What are Canadian diamonds called?
Maple Leaf Diamonds™ are mined in the pristine wilds of northern Canada. They are formed deep within the earth millions of years ago, eventually emerging as beautiful, one of a kind treasures. They are some of the most highly prized diamonds in the world.
Are Tiffany diamonds blood diamonds?
Tiffany & Co. only offers conflict-free diamonds. We have taken rigorous steps to assure that conflict diamonds do not enter our inventory. As global leaders in sustainable luxury, Tiffany & Co. is committed to sourcing natural and precious materials in an ethical and sustainable manner.
What is Canadian Fire diamond?
Every Canadian Fire diamond is a 100% genuine natural diamond and has passed our rigorous inspection for quality and cut. Only diamonds of the finest purity and craftmanship qualify to receive our Canadian Fire Certificate of Authenticity, the highest level of certification.
Are Canadian diamonds cheaper?
Cost of Canadian Diamonds
Mining Canadian diamonds are expensive because the mines are so remote. Mining companies in Canada also pay fair wages and adhere to strict environmental practices, which drives up the mining cost. You can expect to pay 10 – 20% more for a Canadian diamond because of this.