There is a popular misconception that diamonds come from coal. However, this is not entirely true. While it is true that both coal and diamonds are made from carbon, the process of forming diamonds is much more complex and takes place under extreme pressure and temperature conditions.
How are diamonds formed?
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Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle, which is located between 80 and 200 miles below the Earth's surface. This is where the temperature and pressure conditions are just right for carbon to crystallize into diamond.
The process of diamond formation begins with carbon-rich materials, such as organic matter or minerals, being exposed to high pressure and temperature. This can occur when tectonic plates move or during volcanic activity.
Over time, the carbon atoms begin to bond together in a unique way, forming the crystal structure of a diamond. This process can take millions of years, and not all carbon-rich materials will turn into diamonds.
What about coal?
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Coal, on the other hand, is formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that died and were buried under sediment. Over time, the pressure and temperature caused by the sediment and the Earth's movements turned the plant and animal matter into coal.
While it is true that coal and diamonds are both made from carbon, they are formed under very different conditions and processes. Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle, while coal is formed closer to the surface.
Why the misconception?
The misconception that diamonds come from coal likely stems from the fact that diamonds are often found in or near coal mines. However, this is not because the diamonds were formed from the coal itself, but rather because both coal and diamonds are found in similar geological conditions.
Most of the world's diamonds are actually mined in areas where there is no coal present, such as in Africa, Russia, and Canada. In fact, the vast majority of diamonds are mined from kimberlite pipes, which are volcanic rock formations that have brought diamonds closer to the Earth's surface.
Conclusion
In conclusion, diamonds do not come from coal. While both coal and diamonds are made from carbon, they are formed under very different conditions and processes. Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle, while coal is formed closer to the surface. The misconception that diamonds come from coal likely stems from the fact that both are found in similar geological conditions.