Carmel Sapphire: New mineral discovered in Israel is rarer and more precious than diamonds

Shefa Yamim, a precious stone mining company in northern Israel, has discovered a completely new mineral, Carmeltazite, which is being advertised as more precious than diamonds. The mineral was found encrusted with sapphire during mining in volcanic rock in northern Israel’s Zevulun Valley near Mt. Carmel. It was named “Carmel Sapphire” after its discovery site and is harder than diamond as determined by density tests.

Carmeltazite looks and chemically resembles ruby and sapphire but is unlike any other sapphire discovered on the planet. Its crystal structure is peculiar, produced by volcanic explosions along the Carmel crest during the Cretaceous period. The substance had only previously been identified in space and was found trapped within or in the fissures of diamonds within volcanic rock on Mount Carmel. Its rarity has surprised many people, and it has been accepted as a new mineral by the International Mineralogical Association’s Commission on New Minerals.

The largest stone found so far weighs 33.3 carats, and the substance has been patented as “Carmel Sapphire” by an Israeli company. While the company has highlighted some potential places along Mt. Carmel for further study of the mineral, it is still rarer than diamonds. According to Abraham Taub, CEO of Israeli gemstone mining business Shefa Yamim, “Gemstone pricing is typically a result of rarity.” Carmeltazite is expected to be significantly more expensive than diamonds if it is brought to the mineral market.

The discovery of Carmeltazite has both geologists and the general public in awe, as it is an entirely new mineral. It has sparked interest and excitement among researchers and collectors alike. The unique composition and structure of the mineral are likely to lead to new discoveries and insights into the geological history of the region.

The discovery of Carmeltazite highlights the importance of continued research into our planet’s geological formations and the minerals that can be found within them. As we continue to explore the earth’s crust and beyond, we will undoubtedly discover more rare and valuable minerals that can provide insights into the planet’s history and help to drive innovation and technological progress in a range of fields. The discovery of Carmeltazite is a reminder that there is still much to learn about the world around us, and that new discoveries can be made at any time and in unexpected places.