What are the leading theories on carbonado diamond formation?

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Leading Theories on Carbonado Diamond Formation

The formation of carbonado diamonds, such as the 555.55-carat "The Enigma" currently up for auction, is a subject of considerable scientific debate, with leading hypotheses pointing to extreme geological or extraterrestrial origins. These rare black diamonds, predominantly found in Brazil and the Central African Republic, are estimated to be between 2.6 and 3.2 billion years old, dating back to a period when Earth's geological and atmospheric conditions were vastly different from today.
Deep Earth Interior Formation

One prominent theory suggests that carbonado diamonds formed deep within the Earth's interior, at depths far greater than those where conventional diamonds are typically found. This hypothesis posits that the immense pressures and temperatures existing in these super-deep regions could account for the unique structure and properties of carbonados. Such conditions would have existed during Earth's early history, when the planet's tectonic plates were in their nascent stages of development and the atmosphere was undergoing significant oxygenation.
Asteroid Impact Origin Hypothesis

Another significant hypothesis links the formation of carbonado diamonds to celestial impact events. This theory proposes that when large asteroids collided with Earth, the extreme energy and heat generated at the impact sites could have facilitated the crystallisation of carbon into the diamond structure. These impact sites, subjected to immense forces, are considered potential environments where the unique characteristics of carbonados could have developed.
Interstellar Growth Theory

A more speculative, yet scientifically considered, theory suggests an extraterrestrial origin for carbonado diamonds. This interstellar hypothesis posits that these diamonds may have actually grown in outer space, perhaps within nebulae or other celestial bodies, and were subsequently delivered to Earth's surface. This would explain their rarity and unique composition, as they would represent materials formed in environments vastly different from terrestrial geological processes. Research into these diamonds holds the potential to reveal much about deep-Earth mineralogy and the early evolution of our solar system.

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What are the leading theories on carbonado diamond formation?

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