Kimberlite
Kimberlite is an igneous rock best known for sometimes containing diamonds. It is named after the town of Kimberley in South Africa, where the first diamonds were found in this type of rock. Kimberlite occurs in the Earth's crust in vertical structures known as kimberlite pipes, as well as igneous dykes.
Formation and Composition[edit | edit source]
Kimberlite is formed deep within the Earth's mantle at depths between 150 and 450 kilometers. It is brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions. The rock is composed of a variety of minerals, including olivine, phlogopite, pyroxene, and garnet. Kimberlite also contains a significant amount of carbon dioxide and water, which contribute to its explosive volcanic activity.
Types of Kimberlite[edit | edit source]
There are two main types of kimberlite: Group I and Group II. Group I kimberlites are also known as olivine lamproites, while Group II kimberlites are referred to as micaceous kimberlites. The classification is based on the mineralogical and chemical composition of the rock.
Diamond Content[edit | edit source]
Kimberlite is the primary source of diamonds. The diamonds are formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in the mantle and are carried to the surface by the kimberlite magma. Not all kimberlite pipes contain diamonds, and the concentration of diamonds can vary significantly.
Economic Importance[edit | edit source]
Kimberlite is of great economic importance due to its diamond content. Major diamond mines, such as the Kimberley Mine in South Africa and the Ekati Diamond Mine in Canada, are located in kimberlite pipes. The discovery of kimberlite pipes can lead to significant economic development in the surrounding areas.
Geological Significance[edit | edit source]
Kimberlite provides valuable information about the composition and conditions of the Earth's mantle. The study of kimberlite and its inclusions can offer insights into mantle processes, the formation of diamonds, and the history of the Earth's interior.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Diamond
- Kimberley, Northern Cape
- Igneous rock
- Volcanic pipe
- Mantle (geology)
- Olivine
- Phlogopite
- Pyroxene
- Garnet
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
