KIMBERLITES Meaning and
Definition
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Kimberlites are a type of igneous rock that is derived from deep within the Earth's mantle and is known for being the primary source of diamonds. These rocks are characterized by their coarse-grained, porphyritic texture and typically have a bluish-green color due to the presence of minerals such as olivine, pyroxene, and serpentine.
Kimberlites are formed through violent volcanic eruptions that occur within diamond stability fields, which means they are formed at depths greater than 150 kilometers (93 miles). These eruptions result in the rapid ascent of magma and the formation of underground volcanic pipes or conduits, also known as kimberlite pipes, which reach the surface.
The formation and presence of kimberlites are often associated with the presence of diamonds. While most kimberlites do not contain diamonds in economic quantities, they serve as valuable indicators for diamond exploration because they are the most common type of rock that carries diamonds to the Earth's surface. Therefore, the discovery and analysis of kimberlites play a crucial role in diamond exploration and mining.
Geologists study kimberlites to extract valuable information about the composition and structure of the Earth's mantle as these rocks provide insights into processes that occur deep beneath the Earth's surface. In addition to diamonds, kimberlites may also contain other minerals of economic interest, such as garnet, chromite, and ilmenite, further adding to their significance.
Etymology of KIMBERLITES
The word "kimberlite" comes from the name of the town Kimberley in South Africa, where the first diamond deposits associated with kimberlite rocks were discovered. The term was coined in the late 19th century by geologists studying the diamond mines in the area. The suffix "lite" is added to indicate that these rocks are composed primarily of a mineral or minerals. Therefore, "kimberlite" refers to the rock type that contains the diamond-bearing deposits found in the Kimberley region.
