A Pennsylvania woman, Keshia Smith, discovered a rare 3.09-carat diamond at Arkansas’ Crater of Diamonds State Park after experiencing significant personal loss. Smith found the diamond, described as ‘gorgeous’ with a ‘flat, smooth appearance,’ shortly after burying her father. The diamond is the size of a bead and is colorless, featuring unique inclusions around its edges.

Smith planned her April vacation to Arkansas over a year ago, hoping for some relief after losing her son in October and facing the recent loss of her father. She traveled with her boyfriend, Joey, and brother, Kirim, arriving at the park on April 21.

During her visit, Smith explored the park and engaged with fellow guests. With advice from other visitors, she moved to the south end of the search area, where an unusual change in soil color caught her attention. After a few more scoops, a shiny object appeared in her shovel. Initially skeptical, she placed it in her bag and continued digging. Later, at the park’s wash pavilion, she sorted through her findings.

One visitor urged Smith to have the gem assessed, prompting an emotional response when the diamond’s significance was confirmed. Overcome with joy, Smith expressed disbelief and gratitude, emphasizing its heart-like shape as the first thing she noticed.

The discovery is particularly rare, with only 15 diamonds weighing 3 carats or more found at the park in the past decade, noted Caleb Howell, park superintendent. Howell explained that park officials do not appraise diamonds since staff are not trained gemologists. He highlighted the uniqueness of the park’s diamonds, noting their natural and untouched state compared to processed gemstones.

Howell emphasized that the Crater of Diamonds State Park provides a distinct experience, adding sentimental value to each diamond. He acknowledged the rarity of finding diamonds but encouraged visitors to enjoy the adventure and opportunity, with the possibility that they might also find a gem.