Woman Finds 3.09-Carat Diamond at Arkansas Park Amid Personal Loss

Keshia Smith, a resident of Pennsylvania, discovered a rare diamond just after experiencing significant loss in her life. She found the 3.09-carat gem at Arkansas’ Crater of Diamonds State Park in Pike County during a difficult period following the loss of both her son and father. The gem was described as ‘gorgeous’ with a flat, smooth look, comparable in size to a bead.

Smith, having planned her trip to the park in April over a year in advance, went on this journey with her boyfriend Joey and her brother Kirim. She hoped this trip would provide some comfort amidst her grief. Upon arrival on April 21, they explored the park. Smith spent time on the first day mingling with other visitors, and on the second day, she ventured to the south end of the search zone.

Inspired by tips from other visitors, she began digging, noticing a change in soil color. After a few scoops, she saw something shiny. Initially doubtful, she stashed the stone in her bag and continued her search. Later, she brought the stone to the park’s wash pavilion to sift through her finds. Visitors encouraged her to get her discovery examined.

Smith was overwhelmed with emotion when she learned she had found a diamond. She described the gem as resembling a heart, the first thing she noticed upon finding it. Smith shared her recent emotional struggles, stating, ‘I really prayed for this, and I just can’t believe it happened.’ The discovery brought her some joy, and she expressed her gratitude for finding the diamond.

The park superintendent, Caleb Howell, mentioned this was one of only 15 diamonds over 3 carats found at the park in the last decade. Although park staff aren’t trained gemologists and do not appraise found diamonds, Howell emphasized the unique value and beauty of the park’s natural stones. Each diamond is as distinct as a snowflake, possessing unique clarity, color, and carat attributes.

Howell encouraged visitors to enjoy the adventure of searching for diamonds, valuing the memories made during the experience. Though finding diamonds is rare, the park offers the unique opportunity to search for these special gemstones.