Largest Diamond Reserves: Russia has the world’s largest diamond reserves and is the largest diamond producer by volume. Every year Russia produces about 30% to 35% of the world’s total diamond production. Due to this he remains the king of the diamond world. But this dominance was not achieved overnight.

Treasure hidden under the snow of Siberia

Russia’s diamond power lead is in the Yakutia region of Siberia. It is one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. Beneath its frozen ground is a huge kimberlite pipe rich in diamonds. Mines like Aikhal, Mir and Udachnaya are among the largest diamond mines in the world. Despite temperatures falling to -50 degrees Celsius, these reserves have proven to be highly productive.

The discovery that changed everything

Russia’s diamond journey actually began in 1954. When Soviet geologist Larisa Popugaeva discovered the Zarnitsa kimberlite pipe. This success confirmed that Siberia contains diamond formations similar to those in Africa. Once this was proven, a large-scale search began. After this many world class diamond mines were discovered. The Soviet Union and later Russia gained a firm place on the global diamond map.

Engine of Russia’s diamond industry

Russia’s diamond sector is mainly controlled by ALROSA. It is a giant government-owned company that produces more than 95% of the country’s diamonds. This company is not only Russia’s largest mining company but also one of the world’s largest diamond producers.

diamond treasure made from meteorite

One of Russia’s most extraordinary diamond resources is in the Popgai Crater. It was formed millions of years ago by the collision of a large meteorite. This site has a large quantity of super hard impact diamonds. It is harder than natural diamond and is very valuable for industrial use. Scientists say that these reserves alone can meet the demand for industrial diamonds across the world for thousands of years.

Although Russia is at the forefront in the world in terms of quantity of diamonds, it is not the leader in terms of price of diamonds. This is the identity of Botswana. Its diamonds are less in number but very good in quality. With this the Global Diamond Pipeline is completed in Surat. About 90% of the world’s rough diamonds are cut and polished here.

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