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How to Dig for Diamonds

Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas is the only diamond-producing site in the world where the public can search for diamonds with the policy of "finders keepers." With a 37-acre field with historical structures, old mining equipment and diamond bearing soil plowed as weather allows, it has unearthed gems as large as 40 carats in the past. The next time you catch diamond fever, follow these steps to help score a shiny souvenir.

Instructions

- 1
  Don't just rely on tools. While you can bring your own tools from home or rent box screens, buckets, shovels and kneepads from the park, some people simply walk up and down the rows looking for diamonds lying on top of the ground. This is known as "surface searching" and is most productive following a hard rain.
- 2
  If you choose to dig and screen for diamonds, stick to the first foot of soil and consider using a screen to help sift for stones.
- 3
  Get low. Children are oftentimes more likely to see small gems because they are simply closer to the source.
- 4
  Know what to look for. Diamonds found at Crater of Diamonds State Park are typically smooth and well rounded, and the average size is about the diameter of a match head. They also feel like they have an oily film and a metallic luster. Because you can typically see into them but not through them, they will not appear like clear glass. The color could be anywhere from white to yellow to brown.
- 5
  If you think you may have found something, don't keep it to yourself. Staff at Crater of Diamonds State Park are available to identify the rocks and minerals you pick up for free at the Visitor's Center. Diamonds can also be weighed and certified free of charge.

Gemology