Diamond mining is a multi-billion dollar industry, with countries like Australia and South Africa being key producers. The world’s diamond supply seems endless, but eventually these precious gems will become much scarcer. Some even predict major diamond mines to be depleted within the next 20-50 years, which is why mining companies like DeBeers are turning to alternative sources for retrieving diamonds, in order to maintain a robust reserve. These alternatives include scouring the deep seas for diamonds that have come to rest on the ocean floor.

Believe it or not, some experts say there could be as much as 1.5 billion carats of diamonds waiting to be discovered off the coast of South Africa. DeBeers has invested a great deal of money in machinery that can extract the diamonds safely and efficiently. They use what is essentially a large vacuum to gather several stones at a time. The diamond deposits located off the coast of Namibia are home to some of the highest quality gemstones in the world, making this a particularly desirable area for mining.

Diving for Diamonds  

This practice will become increasingly commonplace as the diamond mining industry slowly transitions from traditional methods to more advanced ones. In addition to growing the mining industry, these new techniques are also effecting change in tourism trends. Diamond safaris are a luxe attraction for tourists visiting the southern coast of Africa. Yes, you read that correctly. Diamond diving, also known as diamond safaris, allow visitors the once in a lifetime chance to mine their very own diamond from the sediment of the seabed.

As if that weren’t cool enough, these excursions include a limousine ride, a private flight, breakfast and lunch accommodations at a luxurious coastal villa, and as much South African wine as you can consume. Visitors are accompanied by master divers who will assist you in excavating your rough diamond from the depths of the ocean and returning it to the surface. You’re guaranteed to find one of these precious gems, and if you’re lucky, you may even uncover a garnet or olivine.

Once your diamonds have been unearthed, you’ll choose which to have cut and polished. Then, as you enjoy the rest of your vacation, your rough diamond is transformed into a dazzling, lustrous gem. You’ll return home from your holiday with incredible memories and a souvenir unlike any other. In addition to being a unique, once in a lifetime experience, these diamonds are 100% conflict-free, meaning you don’t have to be uncertain about its origins or whether it was ethically sourced.

If you’re planning a trip to Africa, and are ready to splurge on an out of the ordinary experience, consider a diamond safari. If predictions are true, and the availability of diamonds does in fact decline, this opportunity may not be around for long!

Shop for Diamonds Close to Home

If diving for diamonds doesn’t sound like your idea of a good time, perhaps shopping for them does. At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we carry diamonds of all shapes and sizes—and for every budget! Visit our San Diego jewelry store today and browse our selection of diamond jewelry. Whether shopping for an engagement or other special occasion, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at Leo’s.