Tourist finds a 7.46-carat diamond in Arkansas

While on a trip to the United States, Julien Navas, a French visitor from Paris, stumbled upon an impressive 7.46-carat diamond at Arkansas' Crater of Diamonds State Park on January 11. His journey to the park was a part of a larger adventure that included witnessing the Vulcan Centaur Rocket launch in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and spending time in New Orleans.

The diamond, which he named "Carine Diamond" in honor of his fiancée, is notable for its considerable size and unique deep chocolate brown hue. Comparable to the size of a gumdrop, this diamond is the fifth to be documented at the park in 2024 and the most substantial find since 2020. Its significance is heightened as it ranks as one of the top eight largest diamonds found since the park's establishment as an Arkansas State Park in 1972. Navas intends to divide the diamond into two segments, creating a special keepsake for both his fiancée and daughter, capturing a treasured memory from his U.S. trip.

Crater of Diamonds State Park is renowned for its extraordinary geological history, offering visitors the opportunity to find and keep diamonds. The park frequently sees diamond discoveries, and the conditions were favorable for Navas' find, following over an inch of rainfall just days before his visit. The park's routine practice of ploughing the diamond search area is crucial in unearthing these gems.

Navas' remarkable discovery underscores the appeal of diamond hunting at Crater of Diamonds State Park, highlighting its significance as a haven for those seeking treasures and natural wonders. The park, a geological marvel, has a rich history of diamond finds dating back to 1906, when they were first discovered by John Huddleston, known as "Diamond John." With over 75,000 diamonds uncovered since its opening, the park's diamond wealth is attributed to an ancient volcanic eruption that transported diamond-bearing rocks to the surface. This site continues to be a magnet for those fascinated by geology, history, and the excitement of finding precious stones.

The park also plays a vital role in advancing our understanding of how diamonds form. Originating from stable carbon deep within the Earth and transforming over billions of years, these diamonds offer valuable insight, even though their formation is still unknown. The park's ongoing permission for public diamond hunting makes it an exceptional destination, blending the thrill of discovery with educational experiences about the Earth's geological history.

Source: New York Post