Kimberley

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.

What minerals are found at Kimberley?

Minerals from Kimberley include Diamond.

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.

References & databases

Mindat.org is the world’s largest open mineralogy database.