kimberliidimagma

Kimberliidimagma refers to the molten rock material from which kimberlite, a specific type of volcanic pipe rock, originates. Kimberlite is an ultramafic volcanic rock, typically found in the Earth's mantle, and is known for its association with diamonds. The magma that forms kimberlite is thought to originate at depths of 150 to 300 kilometers (93 to 186 miles) below the surface, a region known as the lithospheric mantle. This deep origin is a key characteristic that distinguishes kimberlite magma from magmas that form more common volcanic rocks.

The ascent of kimberliidimagma to the surface is rapid, often occurring as a violent explosive eruption. This rapid ascent is believed to be responsible for preserving the unique mineralogy and xenocrysts (crystals foreign to the kimberlite itself) that are characteristic of kimberlite. These xenocrysts can include diamonds, mantle minerals like olivine and garnet, and fragments of the surrounding crustal rocks that are entrained during the eruption. The magma itself is rich in volatiles, particularly carbon dioxide and water, which contribute to the explosive nature of kimberlite eruptions. The emplacement of kimberliidimagma creates distinct geological structures known as kimberlite pipes, which are often carrot-shaped or diatremes. These pipes are the primary source for most of the world's mined diamonds. Studying kimberliidimagma provides insights into the deep Earth processes and the conditions under which diamonds form and are brought to the surface.