Diamonds can exist in Antarctica

Scientists found convincing evidence that diamonds could exist beneath Antarctic glaciers.

During the expedition and survey in Antarctica, the team of the British Antarctic Survey Center discovered samples of kimberlite stones on the slope of Meredith Mountain, north of the Prince Charles Mountains. Kimberlite is a kind of potassium volcanic rock containing diamonds.

The discovery of kimberlite stone shows that diamonds can exist beneath Antarctic glaciers.(Artwork: UPI)

Diamonds are formed from pure carbon under high temperature and high pressure, at a depth of about 150km in the earth's crust. When volcanic eruptions, lava flows will bring diamond crystals to the surface. Diamonds are often stored in another type of stone called kimberlite.

According to the BBC, the discovery of kimberlite stone has been considered an important focal point in diamond search activities and diamond identification in many parts of the world such as Africa, Siberia, Australia.

According to scientists, this is the first time that kimberlite stones have been found in Antarctica. The discovery of kimberlite rock will initiate research on precious minerals in this area.

However, the research team also said that commercial exploitation of Antarctic resources is now banned.