Diamonds

A vivid portrait of the world’s most famous diamond fields emerges from the author’s two immersive visits to Kimberley, first in the late‑19th century and again a decade later. Granted unrestricted access to the deep workings of the De Beers mines, he observed the glittering veins of carbon firsthand, while his companion’s keen judgment helped shape the narrative that follows.

The book weaves together scientific explanation and the human story of the industry’s rise. It explores how diamonds form deep within the Earth, the geological clues that reveal their origins, and the early experiments that aimed to create them artificially. Detailed statistics from company reports, historic photographs, and sketches bring the subterranean marvels to life, offering listeners a clear view of both the natural wonder and the bustling commerce that surrounds these precious stones.