A rare type of diamond that comes from the mantle, known as “super-deep” or “royal” diamonds, could provide invaluable clues about the nature and history of our planet. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of super-deep royal diamonds and their scientific significance.

Super-deep royal diamonds are unique diamonds formed at least 360 km below the Earth’s surface. They contain tiny mineral inclusions like bridgmanite and ferropericlase, which are only stable at such extreme depths. These inclusions offer researchers valuable insights into the deep Earth’s composition, dynamics, and evolution. By studying super-deep royal diamonds, scientists can learn about the origin of water on Earth, the recycling of crustal materials into the mantle, the behavior of seismic waves, and the stability of the inner core. One of the most exciting recent discoveries related to super-deep royal diamonds is the detection of water trapped inside them. In 2018, a team of researchers led by Graham Pearson at the University of Alberta analyzed a super-deep royal diamond from Botswana and found that it contained a small amount of water (about 1% by weight) that must have originated from the mantle. This discovery challenges the idea that the mantle is dry, suggesting that comets and asteroids brought water to Earth during its formation. It also raises questions about how water can survive in harsh conditions and impact mineral and magma behavior.

In conclusion, scientists can use advanced techniques of diamond synthesis, high-pressure and high-temperature experiments, and non-destructive imaging to uncover mysteries of the super-deep realm and gain insights into our planet’s past, present, and future. The next super-deep royal diamond may reveal new secrets.