The world of gemstones: Namibia

The largest marine deposits of the world lie on the Atlantic coast of Africa. Diamond mining began here in 1909, when the African coast was still under German control.

The absence of diamond pipes near rivers has led geologists to believe that diamonds found in Namibia originate in the kimberlite pipes of South Africa. The diamonds are then transported over long distances by rivers; industrial quality diamonds disappear since they are not resistant to weathering. Therefore, the vast majority of diamonds mined on the beaches are of gem quality.

The largest mine in Namibia is the Namdeb Diamond Corporation. It is joint-owned by De Beers and the government of the country.