An amateur rock collector recently struck gold while exploring the state parks in Arkansas. Minnesota resident David DeCook discovered a remarkable 3.81-carat brown diamond on April 21st at Diamond State Park.
This diamond has now been highlighted as the largest ever found in the park in 2025, according to Arkansas State Parks.
During a family trip to the park, DeCook stumbled upon the gem. The agency’s press release shared a few details: “David quietly walked to where he saw the diamond, checked it out, then called his brother, stirring up a bit of friendly rivalry.” You can imagine how that conversation played out.
A few days later, DeCook returned to the park to officially register his find. He affectionately named his discovery “Duke Diamond,” after his dog.
“You really just don’t know what you’re going to find. This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.”
Identifying himself as a farmer, DeCook described the diamond’s appearance, comparing it to a candy wrapper. “It’s shiny, almost like a Welter candy wrapper. When you get up close, you can tell it’s a genuinely nice diamond,” he noted.
Expressing his surprise, he added, “I never thought I’d find something so big.” It’s easy to see why this kind of experience would leave someone in awe.
Interestingly, Arkansas State Parks pointed out that heavy rains had swept through the area right after DeCook’s discovery. In April alone, over 12 inches of rain fell, aiding in the uncovering of other buried treasures.
According to Waymon Cox from the park, “Many significant diamonds are right on the surface. Rain can wash away the dirt, making it easier to see what’s hidden below.” That’s a fun tip for anyone thinking of searching around there!
The Duke Diamond marks the most significant find in the park’s crater since a 7.46-carat diamond was discovered by tourists back in January 2024.
