Carbon and Nitrogen in Mantle-Derived Diamonds

Abstract

This chapter is devoted to the carbon and nitrogen stable isotope compositions of terrestrial diamonds with a strong focus on monocrystalline diamonds formed in Earth’s mantle. The wealth of Cand N-stable isotope studies forces us to make some choices to keep this chapter within an acceptable length. Here, we focus on both the ground-breaking early diamond stable isotope studies as well as the latest developments in the field. Using a comprehensive database of diamond stable isotope data compiled from literature, we examine key constraints on diamond-forming processes, the origins of diamond growth media and the cycling of C and N through shallow and deep Earth reservoirs.