An igneous rock, rarer than kimberlite, that transports diamonds to the surface is called?

An igneous rock, rarer than kimberlite, that transports diamonds to the surface is called?

• A. Lamproite
• B. Kimberlite
• C. Irradiation
• D. LDH

Answer: (A)

Diamonds are brought to the surface by volatile-rich, mantle-derived magmas that form pipes through which the material erupts. While kimberlite is the classic carrier many associate with diamond transport, lamproite is a rarer igneous rock that can perform the same role. Lamproite’s mantle-derived magmas can capture and carry diamonds during eruption, and the existence of diamond-bearing lamproite deposits (such as Argyle) shows this rock can host and transport diamonds to the surface. The other options aren’t rock types that serve as diamond carriers: irradiation refers to a processing method, and LDH isn’t a diamond-transporting igneous rock. So the rock described is lamproite.

Diamonds are brought to the surface by volatile-rich, mantle-derived magmas that form pipes through which the material erupts. While kimberlite is the classic carrier many associate with diamond transport, lamproite is a rarer igneous rock that can perform the same role. Lamproite’s mantle-derived magmas can capture and carry diamonds during eruption, and the existence of diamond-bearing lamproite deposits (such as Argyle) shows this rock can host and transport diamonds to the surface. The other options aren’t rock types that serve as diamond carriers: irradiation refers to a processing method, and LDH isn’t a diamond-transporting igneous rock. So the rock described is lamproite.