The diamonds were formed under extreme pressure and heat in the depths of the earthly mantle. If you find one, it will most likely look like a metallic or glassy pebble rather than a sparkling jewel that you might imagine in your mind. The volcanic soil also contains amethyst, gornet, jasper, agate and various types of quartz. (You can also keep them.)

The largest diamond found in the United States came from this area – Uncle Sam Diamond of 40.23 carats, discovered In 1924 before the land became a state park. In September 2021, California visitor Noreen Wredberg Find A yellow diamond of 4.38 carats after the search for two hours, and in 2024 to the visitor named Julien Navas Find At 7.46 diamond carats at the park.

The park received more than 180,000 visitors in 2017, which found 450 certified diamonds of different colors. Among the discoveries of diamonds reported, 299 were white, 72 were brown and 74 were yellow.

Park staff told Mays that visitors found one or two diamonds a day, I know “keep your expectations in check,” she wrote. Most of the diamonds discovered are the size of a paper correspondence head, while a 1 carat diamond is roughly the size of a green pea. But even the tiny diamonds carry the thrill of the discovery. Park staff provide free identification services, examining the discoveries under magnifying glass and confirming when this glassy pebble is in quartz or something more precious.

Family experience

For those who wish to join the thousands of people who visit each year, the park makes it affordable. Entrance is $ 15 for adults, $ 7 for children aged 6 to 12. You can camp during the night at the park and return to the field at dawn. During the summer months, the park offers a small water park – a recognition that diamond hunting in Arkansas can be brutal, with a heat index exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sometimes the rain turns the field into mud, which has experienced favorite researchers because it makes diamonds easier to spot, but it can make a disorderly adventure. As Mays said, “most visitors leave with a handful of interesting rocks, new knowledge and an urgent need for a long shower”.

If you can’t find any diamonds in the park, do not despair – you cover Potential purchase A diamond manufacturing machine of $ 200,000 on Alibaba.

This story initially looked at Ars Technica.