Researchers have discovered two fascinating diamonds from South Africa that challenge what we thought we knew about Earth’s mantle. These diamonds contain inclusions—tiny bits of other materials—that hold two different types of chemistry. One inclusion is rich in oxygen while the other is reduced and low in oxygen. This finding is surprising and prompts scientists to rethink how diamonds form and what they reveal about conditions deep inside our planet.
Inclusions in diamonds can tell us a lot about the mantle, which lies between the Earth’s crust and core. Normally, we can only guess what conditions are like down there because we can’t observe them directly. The new diamonds, formed 174 to 292 miles below the surface, give us concrete evidence of oxidized materials existing much deeper than we previously thought.
This is a game changer. Before this, most evidence only reached about 125 miles down, relying heavily on theories. Now, with these diamonds, scientists can look at the mantle in a whole new light, potentially reshaping our understanding of its chemical makeup.
Interestingly, these diamonds may provide clues about the origins of kimberlites, the rocks that transport diamonds to the surface. Previously, it was believed that kimberlites formed at shallower depths. Now, this new evidence suggests they might come from deeper in the mantle, sparking a reevaluation of geological models.
Additionally, the way diamonds form might also be different from what we thought. Traditionally, diamonds were said to form when carbon-rich fluids cool down. However, this study suggests they may also form when carbonate fluids interact with reduced metal alloys deep in the mantle. This process could explain the unique inclusions found in the diamonds.
A particularly intriguing element is the presence of nickel-rich inclusions. Nickel is heavier than carbon and shouldn’t easily fit into a diamond’s structure. This raises questions about how these materials formed together and what conditions allowed this to happen. Understanding the role of nickel could deepen our knowledge of the mantle’s chemistry and the processes that create minerals at such depths.
Overall, the discovery of these diamonds opens new research paths into Earth’s mantle and its evolution. As scientists dig deeper into these findings, they’ll unravel more mysteries about how our planet formed and continues to change.
This knowledge is vital not just for geology but could also have implications for understanding natural resources. An informed approach towards the mantle helps in sustainable mining and material science. For further reading, check out this [Energy Reporters article on the discoveries](https://www.energy-reporters.com/environment/scientists-just-killed-battery-fires-forever-iron-doped-material-runs-500-hours-without-failing-while-electric-cars-become-completely-safe).
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