Koh-i-noor

‘Made in Andhra Pradesh’: Scientists track origins of iconic diamonds such as Koh-i-noor and Golconda in South India

Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar

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KOINOOR

Identification of Golconda Diamonds

Researchers may have uncovered the true origins of renowned flawless diamonds such as the Koh-i-noor and Hope Diamond, known as Golconda diamonds for their clarity and size.

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Historical Significance

These diamonds, discovered in South India between the 16th and 19th centuries, carry a history steeped in colonialism and intrigue, now scattered across various collections worldwide.

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Cursed Diamonds

Diamonds like the Hope Diamond and Regent Diamond are steeped in legend and believed to carry curses, adding to their mystique and allure.

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Geological Insights

Diamonds originate from kimberlites, rocks brought to the Earth’s surface through volcanic eruptions. The specific kimberlite source for these diamonds has been a subject of debate.

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New Research Findings

Recent research published in the Journal of Earth System Science proposes that these diamonds may have originated from the Wajrakarur kimberlite field, located up to 300 kilometers from where they were mined.

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Uncertainty in Findings

However, experts like Yaakov Weiss from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem caution that while the study supports a connection to Wajrakarur, it primarily analyzes diamonds from the lithosphere and leaves uncertainty regarding deeper mantle origins.

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Geochemical Analysis

Geoscientists from Savitribai Phule Pune University in India studied the chemical signatures of nearby kimberlites and lamproites to pinpoint the potential origin of Golconda diamonds.

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Continued Research

Further investigations aim to resolve remaining uncertainties about the precise geological processes that led to the formation of these iconic diamonds, shedding light on their journey from deep within the Earth to their current prominence in human history.