Oklahoma Family Discovers 2.79-Carat Diamond at Arkansas State Park Using Dollar Store Tools
While celebrating the birthday of her nephew, William, Raynae Madison and her family from Cookson, Oklahoma, made an astonishing discovery at Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas. Using a beach digging kit and sand sifting tools bought from a dollar store, the family uncovered a 2.79-carat brown diamond on September 13. The find was officially announced by Arkansas State Parks on September 23, highlighting the family’s lucky encounter.
The diamond, named the William Diamond, is a rare find due to its unique coloration, which results from a process called plastic deformation. This deformation causes structural defects in the diamond, reflecting red and green light, resulting in the brown hue. The park’s interpreter, Emma O’Neal, explained that these defects are common in diamonds formed through the movement of magma, creating a unique appearance.
Crater of Diamonds State Park, known for its diamond hunting opportunities, has seen several notable finds in 2025. To date, 403 diamonds have been discovered, with four of them exceeding two carats. This latest find joins the ranks of other remarkable discoveries, such as a 7.46-carat diamond found by a French visitor in 2024, which was named after his fiancée, Carine.
Madison’s discovery underscores the serendipitous nature of diamond hunting at the park, where visitors can often uncover gems using simple tools. While the family’s find is a personal triumph, it also highlights the park’s role in promoting geology and gemology education, drawing enthusiasts from around the world.