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Source: XDF

Diamonds, an occasional component of rare igneous rocks called lamproites and kimberlites, have never been dated satisfactorily. However, some diamonds contain minute inclusions of silicate minerals, commonly olivine, pyroxene, and garnet. These minerals can be dated by radioactive decay techniques because of the very small quantities of radioactive trace elements they, in turn, contain. Usually, it is possible to conclude that the inclusions are older than their diamond hosts, but with little indication of the time interval involved. Sometimes, however, the crystal form of the silicate inclusions is observed to resemble more closely the internal structure of diamond than that of other silicate minerals. When present, the resemblance is regarded as compelling evidence that the diamonds and inclusions are truly cogenetic.

Question List: 1 2

The author implies that silicate inclusions were most often formed

  • A with small diamonds inside of them
  • B with trace elements derived from their host minerals
  • C by the radioactive decay of rare igneous rocks at
  • D an earlier period than were their host minerals
  • E from the crystallization of rare igneous material

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