Mexico Turns Tequila Into Diamonds

Not quite large enough for jewelry, but crystallized vapor has industrial uses
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Nov 13, 2008 11:19 AM CST
Mexico Turns Tequila Into Diamonds
Mexican scientists now plan to experiment with different kinds of tequila to see if any particular type is best suited for making diamonds.   (©saguayo)

Mexican scientists have discovered that their national drink is good for a lot more than margaritas, the Guardian reports. Tequila contains hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon in exactly the right proportion to form diamonds when it is heated to a vapor and left to crystallize. The extremely thin tequila diamonds are way too small for rings, researchers say, but have many industrial uses.

"The fact it's tequila has a certain charm," said a scientist. "It's a Mexican product and Mexican researchers developed the project." (More tequila stories.)

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