"Swiss Breakthrough Simplifies Diamond Detection for Hunters"

A new study led by Andrea Giuliani has found that the iron-to-magnesium ratio in olivine, a mineral in kimberlite rock, is directly related to the presence of diamonds. The research, supported by De Beers, revealed that olivine becomes richer in iron due to metasomatism, a process in the earth's interior, which destroys diamonds. Conversely, when no metasomatism occurs, olivine contains more magnesium, preserving the diamonds. This new olivine analysis method is now being used by De Beers as it provides a simpler and faster way to detect diamond deposits.