Single-photon sources created by nature millions of years ago

TL;DR

This paper reports the discovery of naturally occurring, diamond-based single-photon sources in ancient Yakut diamonds, revealing their potential for quantum technology applications.

Contribution

It identifies naturally formed diamond SPS in ancient Yakut diamonds, expanding the sources available for quantum technologies.

Findings

Narrow photoluminescence lines indicate SPS in Yakut diamonds

Unknown PL lines in other nitrogen- and hydrogen-rich diamonds are likely SPS

Ancient diamond rims are valuable for quantum technology use

Abstract

Single photons source (SPS) is a key component required by quantum communication devices. We report the finding of bright diamond-based SPS created by nature millions of years ago. It is shown that narrow ($\leq$ 2 nm) lines observed within the 500-800 nm range in photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the surface layer of untreated Yakut diamonds rich in nitrogen and hydrogen belong to SPS. Moreover, unknown narrow-line PL observed earlier in nitrogen- and hydrogen-rich diamonds from various deposits around the world are thought to be associated with SPS. Thus, the diamond rim, which until now was sent to the dumps or, at best, used as an abrasive powder, turned out to be a valuable material suitable for use in quantum technologies.