Diamonds: not so rare after all?

Diamonds may not be so rare after all, according to research from one US university. The gems have traditionally been formed through complex redox reacions, which involve an exchnge of electrons deep down in the Earth in hot, highly pressurised conditions. The study, though, suggests that they could be formed by a simply, natural reaction, which could mean that diamonds are being formed frequently.

An alternative asset's value is often determined by its scarcity - the rarity of diamonds, as a luxury commodity, is a direct factor in its cost and capital appreciation. While the new study could impact that in the long-term, if the theory is proven true, these diamonds are much smaller and collection of diamonds can only occur once the precious stones have risen to be nearer the Earth's surface, often by volcanic eruption.

Nature World News