Global Voices Season 7 Episode 11 Diamond in the Dunes
- August 10, 2014
- 51 min
Diamond in the Dunes is the eleventh episode in the seventh season of Global Voices. In this episode, the show takes its audience to one of the most arid deserts in the world, the Mojave Desert in California, USA. The episode focuses on the search for diamonds in the vast expanse of sand dunes.
The episode begins with a brief history of the Mojave Desert and its geology. The show explains how the desert was formed, and how valuable minerals and stones are often found in desert regions. The narrator highlights that the vastness and extreme conditions of the Mojave Desert make the search for diamonds in the area a daunting task.
The show then introduces its audience to the members of a team of geologists and diamond hunters who are searching for diamonds in the Mojave Desert. The team includes a seasoned geologist, a diamond expert, and a local guide who has spent years exploring the desert.
The team works tirelessly to find any indication of Kimberlite - a rare, volcanic rock that often bears diamonds. They use various techniques to identify geological anomalies in the desert area, including ground-penetrating radar and geochemical sampling.
Throughout the episode, the team encounters numerous challenges in their search for diamonds. Despite harsh weather conditions and the rugged terrain of the desert, the team never gives up. They continue to drive their all-terrain vehicles through the sand dunes, digging and analyzing soil samples.
The team also faces the challenge of illegal mining activities in the area. Many people often come to the desert to search for valuable stones, including diamonds; however, they often do so without proper permission or knowledge. The geologist explains that illegal mining activities can destroy the precious geological formations that have taken millions of years to form.
Throughout the episode, the team shares their tips and tricks for those who wish to venture into the desert to search for gems and minerals. They stress the importance of obtaining permits and working with local authorities to ensure responsible mining practices.
As the episode progresses, the team's hard work finally pays off when they discover a small amount of Kimberlite. The team immediately begins to analyze the sample, looking for any signs of diamond deposits. The show captures the team's excitement and enthusiasm during this moment of discovery.
The episode concludes with the team sharing their love and passion for the Mojave Desert. They express that the desert is not just a geological wonder, but also a place of deep spiritual and cultural significance. The team hopes that their work can help protect the fragile ecosystem of the desert and inspire others to appreciate and respect the unique beauty of the Mojave.
Diamond in the Dunes is a captivating episode that showcases the perseverance and dedication required for the search for diamonds in one of the harshest environments on earth. The team's passion and enthusiasm, combined with fascinating insights into the geology of the Mojave Desert, make for an engaging and informative exploration of the challenges and rewards of diamond hunting in the desert.