How do kimberlite pipes form?

Kimberlite pipes form through volcanic activity when magma from the Earth's mantle rises rapidly to the surface, carrying with it a mix of minerals, including diamonds. This process typically occurs in areas of continental crust, where the magma erupts explosively, creating a pipe-like structure filled with kimberlite rock. The formation is often associated with deep-source volcanic eruptions that can transport materials from depths of over 150 kilometers. Over time, erosion and geological processes can expose these pipes, allowing for the extraction of diamonds.