The best Y level for finding diamonds in Minecraft, especially after the 1.20 update and including 1.21, is around Y -59, with an advised range between Y -53 and Y -59. This range offers the highest diamond ore concentration while balancing safety from lava lakes, which tend to appear around Y -54. Many players prefer mining at Y -53 specifically to avoid the lava risk but still capitalize on a high diamond spawn rate.
Additional Details
- Diamonds spawn most densely between Y -64 and 16, but the highest concentration is deep underground near bedrock, especially between Y -53 and Y -59.
- Strip mining at Y -59 is very effective; miners create 2-block-tall tunnels with branch tunnels every 2-3 blocks.
- Exploring deep caves, especially in large open areas near Y -59, can also yield diamonds but involves more risk from mobs and lava.
- Using a Fortune III enchanted pickaxe can significantly increase the diamond yield per ore.
- Players tend to avoid going below Y -59 because of the increasing difficulty and danger due to proximity to bedrock and lava.
In summary, the optimum strategy is to mine between Y -53 and Y -59, with Y -59 being the most diamond-rich level and Y -53 providing a safer alternative with less lava hazard.
