In a remarkable display of determination and self-reliance, Manhattan’s Micherre Fox took a unique approach to her engagement ring, opting to find her own diamond. Her journey began at the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, where she unearthed a stunning 2.3-carat white diamond, making headlines as one of the largest diamonds discovered this year in the park. Fox’s quest was not a mere whim; she trained for two weeks in preparation, equipping herself with knowledge and tools before embarking on her adventure.
Fox described the experience, stating, “So I brought my tent, and my cot, and all the mining equipment I would need.” Her decision holds deep personal significance. “This was a perfect opportunity for me to make a commitment about who I want to be in a relationship,” she explained, capturing the essence of her journey as one driven by purpose rather than convention.
Her relentless pursuit of the diamond reflected not only her ambition but also her recognition of the realities that come with marriage. “There’s something symbolic about being able to solve problems with money,” she noted, “but sometimes money runs out in a marriage. You need to be willing and able to solve those problems with hard work.” Fox was coming off a month off from her graduate studies and was ready to embrace her quest wholeheartedly.
After several weeks without success, Lady Luck finally smiled upon her on July 29, the last day of her trip. While digging one last time, she noticed a sparkle near her feet—a moment of sheer disbelief. “Having never seen an actual diamond in my hands, I didn’t know for sure, but it was the most ‘diamond-y diamond’ I had seen,” she recounted, her excitement palpable.
The Diamond Discovery Center at the park confirmed her find, and Fox’s emotions quickly overflowed. “I got on my knees and cried, then started laughing,” she recalled. Her success highlights the marriage of hard work and serendipity, as Fox herself stated, “After all the research, there’s luck and there’s hard work.” It’s a testament to the idea that determination, coupled with a bit of luck, can lead to remarkable outcomes.
The park, which saw a total of 366 diamonds registered this year, emphasized Fox’s story as an inspiration. Assistant Superintendent Waymon Cox pointed out that finding diamonds often hinges on being the right person in the right place at the right time. Yet, Fox’s hard-earned journey stands as a reminder that success often requires more than just luck—it demands effort, perseverance, and a willingness to dig deep.
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