Top 10 Most Expensive Diamond Found In Arkansas: A Glittering Treasure Trove

Arkansas is home to one of the most unique diamond-producing sites in the world — the Crater of Diamonds State Park. Over the years, this fascinating location has been the site of incredible discoveries, with visitors unearthing glittering gemstones worth thousands, and sometimes millions, of dollars. Among these discoveries are some of the most astonishing diamonds ever found in the United States, which have captured the imagination of gem enthusiasts and collectors alike.

What makes these diamonds even more special is their accidental discovery. At Crater of Diamonds State Park, visitors dig, sift, and search for these natural wonders, hoping to stumble upon a gem that could change their lives. The park's policy of "finders, keepers" has allowed ordinary people to become the owners of extraordinary treasures, making it a must-visit destination for adventurers and diamond enthusiasts. Some of these finds have gone on to become global news, showcasing Arkansas's rich geological bounty.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the top 10 most expensive diamond found in Arkansas. From their origins to their remarkable value, we’ll delve into the stories behind these sparkling gems. Whether you’re a diamond connoisseur or simply fascinated by the allure of gemstones, this comprehensive guide will shine a light on Arkansas’s most dazzling discoveries.

Table of Contents

• History of Arkansas Diamond Mining
• What Makes Arkansas Diamonds Unique?
• How Are Diamonds Discovered in Arkansas?
• Top 10 Most Expensive Diamond Found in Arkansas
• The Uncle Sam Diamond
• The Star of Murfreesboro
• The Strawn-Wagner Diamond
• The Kahn Canine Diamond
• The Amarillo Starlight Diamond
• The Cinderella Diamond
• The Snow White Diamond
• The Carat Lucky Find
• The Summer Lightning Diamond
• The Fox Den Diamond
• What Is the Significance of the Crater of Diamonds State Park?
• Can Anyone Visit and Find Diamonds in Arkansas?
• How Much Are These Diamonds Worth?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

History of Arkansas Diamond Mining

Diamond mining in Arkansas has a storied past that dates back to the early 20th century. In 1906, farmer John Huddleston discovered two strange crystals on his property near Murfreesboro, Arkansas. Little did he know, these crystals were diamonds, and his find would spark a diamond rush that would forever change the region.

In the years that followed, various attempts were made to commercialize diamond mining in the area, but none proved successful due to the geological challenges and the sporadic nature of diamond deposits. However, the site was eventually transformed into the Crater of Diamonds State Park in 1972, allowing the public to search for diamonds for a small fee. To date, over 33,000 diamonds have been discovered at the park, cementing its place in diamond mining history.

What Makes Arkansas Diamonds Unique?

Arkansas diamonds are renowned for their exceptional quality and natural brilliance. Unlike diamonds mined in other parts of the world, the diamonds found at the Crater of Diamonds State Park are often free of inclusions, making them highly sought after by collectors and jewelers alike.

Another unique feature of Arkansas diamonds is their variety of colors. While most diamonds are colorless, the Crater of Diamonds has yielded diamonds in stunning shades of yellow, brown, and even pink. These rare colors add to the allure and value of the gemstones found in the park.

How Are Diamonds Discovered in Arkansas?

Finding diamonds in Arkansas is a hands-on, labor-intensive process. Visitors to the Crater of Diamonds State Park use a variety of tools and techniques to sift through the soil in search of gemstones. The most common methods include dry sifting, wet sifting, and surface searching.

Surface searching is the simplest method and involves walking around the park's plowed fields, looking for diamonds that have come to the surface. Dry sifting involves using a screen to sift through the soil, while wet sifting involves washing soil through a screen to separate diamonds from other materials. Regardless of the method used, patience and persistence are key to a successful find.

Top 10 Most Expensive Diamond Found in Arkansas

1. The Uncle Sam Diamond

The Uncle Sam Diamond is the largest diamond ever discovered in the United States, weighing an astounding 40.23 carats in its rough form. Found in 1924 by a worker at the Arkansas Diamond Corporation's mine, this diamond was eventually cut into a 12.42-carat emerald shape. Its value has been estimated at several million dollars, making it the crown jewel of Arkansas's diamond discoveries.

2. The Star of Murfreesboro

Discovered in 1964, the Star of Murfreesboro is a 34.25-carat white diamond that captured headlines for its size and brilliance. It remains one of the largest diamonds ever found at the Crater of Diamonds and is valued at approximately $1 million.

3. The Strawn-Wagner Diamond

The Strawn-Wagner Diamond is often referred to as the "perfect diamond" due to its exceptional clarity and cut. Found in 1990, this 3.03-carat diamond was later cut down to 1.09 carats and received a perfect score from the American Gem Society. Its estimated value is around $25,000.

4. The Kahn Canine Diamond

Weighing in at 4.25 carats, the Kahn Canine Diamond was discovered in 1975 and is notable for its unusual shape, which resembles a dog's head. The diamond's unique appearance and pristine quality make it a valuable collector's item, with an estimated worth of $50,000.

5. The Amarillo Starlight Diamond

Found in 1975 by a visitor from Texas, the Amarillo Starlight Diamond is a dazzling 16.37-carat white diamond. Its remarkable size and clarity have earned it a spot among Arkansas's most celebrated diamond discoveries, with an estimated value of $150,000.

6. The Cinderella Diamond

This 2.79-carat diamond was discovered in 2006 and named for its fairytale-like discovery. Despite its relatively small size, the diamond's flawless clarity and brilliant cut make it a gem of significant value, estimated at $25,000.

7. The Snow White Diamond

Weighing 5.47 carats, the Snow White Diamond was discovered in 1998 and is known for its stunning white color and excellent clarity. This diamond is valued at approximately $75,000.

8. The Carat Lucky Find

Discovered in 2013, this 6.19-carat diamond was found by a visitor who had no prior experience in diamond hunting. Its impressive size and quality have placed it among the most valuable diamonds found in Arkansas, with an estimated worth of $90,000.

9. The Summer Lightning Diamond

This 2.87-carat yellow diamond was discovered in 1981 and is known for its vibrant color and unique shape. Its value is estimated at $20,000, making it a standout find in Arkansas's diamond history.

10. The Fox Den Diamond

The Fox Den Diamond, weighing 3.60 carats, was found in 2015 and is notable for its rare pink hue. This exceptional gemstone is valued at approximately $50,000 and remains a highlight of Arkansas's diamond discoveries.

What Is the Significance of the Crater of Diamonds State Park?

The Crater of Diamonds State Park is not only a unique geological site but also a cultural and historical treasure. It is the only diamond-producing site in the world open to the public, where visitors can keep what they find. This makes it a popular destination for tourists and gem enthusiasts.

Can Anyone Visit and Find Diamonds in Arkansas?

Yes, anyone can visit the Crater of Diamonds State Park and try their luck at finding diamonds. The park is open year-round, and visitors are encouraged to bring their own equipment or rent tools on-site. With a little patience and determination, anyone can experience the thrill of discovering a diamond.

How Much Are These Diamonds Worth?

The value of diamonds found in Arkansas varies widely depending on their size, color, quality, and rarity. While some diamonds may be worth a few hundred dollars, others, like the Uncle Sam Diamond, can be worth millions. The thrill of potentially finding a valuable gem is part of what makes diamond hunting in Arkansas so exciting.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What tools are needed to find diamonds in Arkansas? Basic tools like a shovel, bucket, and screen are commonly used. These can be rented at the park or brought from home.
2. How often are diamonds found at the Crater of Diamonds State Park? On average, visitors find one to two diamonds per day.
3. Are all diamonds found in Arkansas valuable? Not all diamonds are of high value, but their rarity and the story behind their discovery often add sentimental worth.
4. Can diamonds be cut and sold after being found? Yes, diamonds can be cut and sold, but the process requires expertise to ensure maximum value.
5. Is there an entrance fee for the Crater of Diamonds State Park? Yes, the park charges a nominal fee for entry and diamond hunting.
6. What happens if I find a diamond? You get to keep it! The park operates on a "finders, keepers" policy.

Conclusion

Arkansas’s Crater of Diamonds State Park is truly a one-of-a-kind destination, offering visitors the chance to uncover some of the most breathtaking diamonds in the world. From the legendary Uncle Sam Diamond to the vibrant Summer Lightning Diamond, these gemstones have become a part of Arkansas’s rich heritage.

Whether you’re inspired by the stories of these incredible finds or planning your visit to the park, the allure of discovering a diamond is undeniable. Who knows? You might just stumble upon the next big gem to add to the list of the top 10 most expensive diamond found in Arkansas!