The South African government has confirmed that the strange stones attracting diamond seekers to KwaHlathi village are identified as quartz, not diamonds.
Recently, thousands of locals have flocked to KwaHlathi village in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa, to dig for gemstones after a herder discovered white stones resembling diamonds.
However, after examination, the stones were confirmed to be quartz crystals, not diamonds, and they have low value, local authorities stated in a declaration, as reported by the BBC.
Research by scientists further indicates that the site where the stones were found is on the edge of an area typically known for diamond discoveries in South Africa.
The Geological Science Council will conduct further research to determine if there are other minerals in the area that could create jobs and improve the lives of thousands of local residents.
Thousands of people gather to dig in hopes of finding diamonds. (Photo: Reuters).
The government has urged residents to stop digging, as illegal mining activities could negatively impact the environment.
The gemstone rush is occurring in one of the poorest areas of South Africa. The authorities’ conclusion that the stones are not diamonds has caused deep disappointment within the local community, which is eager to find a way out of poverty.
South Africans have been enduring wealth inequality, with rising unemployment amid the Covid-19 pandemic sweeping the nation.
According to data from Johns Hopkins University, South Africa has recorded the highest number of Covid-19 cases in Africa, approximately 1.8 million, with over 60,000 deaths.
Previously, more than 3,000 people had gathered to dig in the area where the herder found the white stone resembling a diamond. Residents dug over an area of up to 5 hectares, hoping to find diamonds that could change their lives.
