Kimberley

Curated by Maggie Liu · Updated:

South Africa · Northern Cape
Diamond from Kimberley, South Africa
Photo: Élisee Reclus, Translated by Augustus Henry Keane, 1833-1912 · Public domain via Wikimedia Commons

Kimberley, in South Africa, is the birthplace of modern diamond mining — home of the “Big Hole” and the kimberlite rock named after it.

About Kimberleyextended article

What it is known for

The Kimberley pipes sparked the 1870s diamond rush and gave their name to kimberlite, the diamond-bearing volcanic rock; mining left the famous hand-dug Big Hole.

What collectors look for

Diamond from Kimberley is largely of economic/historical note; the locality is the type for kimberlite and a cornerstone of diamond history.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Kimberley?

Kimberley is a mineral locality in Northern Cape, South Africa. It lies at approximately 28.7400°S, 24.7700°E. Elevation is about 1200 m.

What minerals are found at Kimberley?

Signature minerals from Kimberley include Diamond. The locality lies in Northern Cape, South Africa, and each mineral links to a full reference entry with formula, crystal system, and collector notes.

What is Kimberley known for?

Kimberley, in South Africa, is the birthplace of modern diamond mining — home of the “Big Hole” and the kimberlite rock named after it.

Looking for specimens from Kimberley?

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