Composition : 99.99% silver
Mintage : 35,000

From the heart of the planet

Fifty billion years ago, an immense ball of gas begins to cool. As heavier elements sink to its molten core, carbon settles into its semi-fluid mantle. Under tremendous heat and pressure for millions of years, the carbon starts to cristallize.

[...]

In the 1870's, volcanic pipes penetrating deep into the earth are discovered near Kimberley, South Africa. As they release pressure from earth's core, they explode upwards with kimberlite, the raremolten rock that caries these carbon crystals to the surface.

Over a century later in Canada's north, geologists discover minerals that indicate the presence of kimberlite - and diamonds! Retracing the endless trails left by thousands of years of glacial activity, they hope to find the source. In 1991, the discovery of diamonds in the Lac de Gras in Canada's Northwest Territories opens the door to a whole newdiamond world in Canada and around the world. Virtually overnight, Canada rises to the heights of the diamond industry, its first mines unearthing some of the finest gems the world has ever seen - gifts from the heart of a planet.

This coin is the sixth issue of the Natural Wonders series.
The first coin of the series, released in 2003, depicts the Niagara Falls.
The second coin of the series, released in 2003, depicts the Rocky Mountains.
The third coin of the series, released in 2004, depicts the Icebergs.
The fourth coin of the series, released in 2004, depicts the Northern Lights.
The fifth coin of theseries, released in 2004, depicts the Hopewell Rocks.
The sixth coin of the series, released in 2005, depicts the Northwest Territories Diamonds.

NATURAL WONDERS - NORTHWEST TERRITORIES DIAMONDS - 2005 CANADA COINS 06 is categorised COINS AND PAPER MONEY / 08- ROYAL CANADIAN MINT / 10- FLORA, FAUNA & NATURE and sold by l'Imaginaire, a store and specialised website.