When were diamonds first discovered in Brazil, and why does that matter for global supply?

• A. Diamonds were discovered in Brazil in the 1880s, which had little impact on supply.
• B. Diamonds were discovered in Brazil in the 1500s, becoming the sole source of global supply for centuries.
• C. Diamonds were discovered in Brazil in the 1720s–1750s, introducing a major new source outside India and Africa and expanding global supply networks.
• D. Diamonds were discovered in Brazil in the 1900s, leading to Brazil becoming the main producer.

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is that discovering diamonds in Brazil opened up a major new source outside the long-established hubs of India and Africa, expanding global supply networks. In the early to mid-1700s, Brazilian fields in Minas Gerais and nearby areas began producing diamonds, gradually turning Brazil into a significant supplier and linking Atlantic trade routes with European markets. This diversification meant more stones available, increased competition among traders, and less dependence on a single region for supplies. The result was a noticeable shift in how diamonds moved around the world, with new mining centers, ports, and trading links forming to connect Brazilian production with buyers in Europe and beyond. If the date were later, or if Brazil had appeared earlier as the sole source, the geopolitical and economic impact on supply would look very different; the 1720s–1750s window best captures the moment when Brazil genuinely changed the global supply landscape.