It seems like a science fiction MacGuffin: it uses a purple diamond in a quartz tube exposed to an intense magnetic field. The system creates a maser, the microwave equivalent of a laser.

The team of quantum experts have developed a device known as a maser which uses a specially created purple diamond to amplify weak microwave signals, such as those which can come from deep space.

A rare Russian pink diamond called the ‘ Spirit of the Rose ’ has set the new world record for the most expensive purple-pink diamond ever sold. The 14.83 carat diamond was auctioned for a ...