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Mining for diamonds is often just a dream that you may have in your leisure time. You might think, 'How great it would be if I could mine a diamond to use in a ring for my true love.' That may not be possible, but if you travel to the state of Arkansas, you may just find a diamond that you actually mine yourself.

Open to the Public

The Crater of Diamonds State Park is the only site that produces diamonds that is open to the public in the world. There is a field of 37 acres where you are invited to dig and explore to your heart's content. It was 95 million years ago that a volcano here was situated and the pipe of the eroded site is where semi-precious stones along with diamonds were brought to the surface.

A Rainbow of Diamonds

The typical person does not realize that diamonds come in an array of colors. Here at Crater of Diamonds State Park you will be amazed at the wide spectrum of colors which diamonds can be found. Diamonds with hues of yellow, brown and white will twinkle their presence and will delight any rockhound worth their salt.

There are not only diamonds to be found at the park, but minerals and rocks such as peridot, jasper, banded agate, amethyst, quartz and garnet to name just a few of the treasures you may find when you visit this exciting place.

In the Past

It was a simple local farmer named John Huddleston who in 1906 found the first diamonds on his property in Murfreesboro, Arkansas. It was here that the diamond rush began and with ventures that were ill-fated, the site was later deeded to Arkansas and made a state park in 1972.

It's Not Just about Diamonds

Crater of Diamonds State Park is not just about diamonds. There are hundreds of acres that feature natural forests, a wide variety of fauna and flora along with animals that make the park their home. The park is unlike any other of its kind in the world and it is a real treat for all ages to search for a diamond that is considered 'finders keepers.' Whatever you find, no matter what the value, it is yours to keep forever. The friendly staff will help you to identify any of your finds and if you are really lucky, you will find a rare treasure that you can have set into a family heirloom.

Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend

Though the ladies have traditionally been the ones to most appreciate a sparkling diamond, at Crater of Diamonds State Park, young and old, male and female will get the fever of the beauty and rarity of a diamond. A diamond you unearth with your own two hands, no matter the size or value, will be much more precious to you than one you bought in a jewelry store.

So the next time you are in Arkansas, see if you are near this one of a kind park and try your hand at unearthing a diamond that may be in your family for many years to come.