A photo from open sources
An international team of scientists first discovered kimberlite rocks in Antarctica, which may indicate the presence of diamonds on the continent covered with many kilometers of ice, reports Interfax, citing the newspaper Financial Times. Kimberlite, rare the rock in which diamonds are found was discovered near Meridite Mountains in the Prince Charles Mountains. Kimberlite deposits most common in Yakutia, in South and Central Africa – the richest diamond regions. Researchers emphasize that only 10 percent of kimberlite rocks contain diamonds in sufficient volume so that their production becomes profitable. Besides There is no evidence that the breed found precious stones, no, and the chances of finding them are slim. According to the provisions of the special protocol of the Antarctic Treaty signed in 1991, 50 countries, on the territory of Antarctica prohibited any mining operations until 2041. Most experts expects that upon expiration of the contract it will be extended. However, by 2041, much can change. “We do not know what there will be the views of the countries party to the treaty by the time it comes deadline to review it. In addition, technology may appear, which will make diamond mining cost-effective in Antarctica, ” Says a member of the Antarctic Research Scientific Committee Kevin Hughes Companies may show a desire to mine diamonds in permafrost conditions also because the offer of these gemstones can be greatly reduced by the end decades. According to a Bain & Co study, at the current pace production of proven reserves of diamonds will last for 18 years.
Antarctica Stones
