Mineral Guide · Rock
Kimberlite is a volatile-rich ultramafic volcanic rock famous as the host of many diamonds and as a rapid messenger from the deep mantle.
Kimberlite is a volatile-rich ultramafic volcanic rock famous as the host of many diamonds and as a rapid messenger from the deep mantle.
Reference formula: No single formula applies because this is a rock.. Kimberlite is a complex rock, not a single mineral species or fixed formula. It may contain olivine, phlogopite, serpentine, carbonates and accessory minerals; diamond-bearing potential cannot be inferred from appearance alone. Kimberlite is classified with a rock rather than one mineral class and has a not applicable to the rock as a whole crystal system. Typical hardness is 3–6 on the Mohs scale and specific gravity is approximately 2.4–3.3.
Typical colours include green, blue-grey, black, brown. The usual massive, brecciated, porphyritic habit and dull, earthy, vitreous lustre help describe a specimen, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Kimberlite forms in or is associated with deep-sourced explosive volcanic pipes and diatremes. Important documented localities include South Africa, Botswana, Canada, Russia, Australia and Tanzania.
Kimberlite gives a collection instant geological drama. Even a small fragment can anchor a display about mantle-derived magmas, diamond transport and the difference between a visually ordinary host rock and the exceptional crystals it may carry.
Treat as a rock specimen; avoid dust and retain locality or mine provenance, especially where heavy minerals or alteration products are present.
Reviewed by NotOnlyRocks Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 28 August 2026
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