Sparkling Wanching stones not diamonds, confirm geologists

KOHIMA: The dream of many strking it rich with "diamonds" supposed to have been recently discovered at Wanching village in Nagaland's Mon district, has shattered what with geologists confirming that the sparkling stones are not diamonds.

During the last few days, several hundred people have been camping near Wanching village along Myanmar border, trying to dig out 'diamonds'.

A video on Thursday showing hundreds of tribal Naga villagers digging a small hill in the village to unearth "diamond" had gone viral on social media.

According to an Indo-German study published in the journal 'Current Science', it was reported that "ophiolite" rocks found along the Indo-Myanmar ranges, may potentially hold "micro diamonds" – diamonds of small size, less than one millimeter. The Director of Geology and Mininggeologists to immediately visit the village, and unearth the truth behind the mass digging for diamonds.

The four geologists – Abenthung Lotha, Longrikaba, Kenyelo Rengma and David Lhoupenyi — on Friday undertook a detailed study at Wanching village.

After a thorough investigation, the team of geologists is of the opinion that the sparking stones are not diamonds.

The geologists, from prima facie investigation, are of the opinion that the sparkling stones found by the villagers in Wanching are crystal stones. The team of geologists is likely to submit a detailed report of the study on Monday, said sources.

Mon Deputy Commissioner Thavaseelan K. is closely monitoring the reports of 'diamond' digging in Wanching village.

Earlier, people of Nagaland were optimistic that the sparkling stones found at Wanching Village in Mon district of Nagaland could be diamonds. (Agencies)

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