Diamonds are precious gemstones that are highly valued for their beauty, durability, and rarity. Here's some information about diamonds:
Composition and Formation: Diamonds are made of carbon, which is the same element as graphite, the lead in pencils. However, the arrangement of carbon atoms in diamonds gives them their unique crystal structure and exceptional properties. Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle under high pressure and temperature over millions of years.
Physical Properties: Diamonds are known for their exceptional hardness. In fact, they are the hardest known naturally occurring substance on Earth. Their hardness is due to the strong covalent bonds between carbon atoms. Diamonds also have a high refractive index, which gives them their brilliance and sparkle.
Colour: Diamonds come in a range of colours, including colourless, yellow, brown, and even rare colours like blue, green, and pink. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamonds on a colour scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Colourless diamonds are the most valuable and desirable.
Clarity: Most diamonds contain internal imperfections called inclusions and external flaws called blemishes. These are formed during the diamond's natural growth process. Clarity is a measure of the presence and visibility of these flaws. The GIA grades diamond clarity on a scale ranging from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye).
Cut: The cut of a diamond refers to its proportions, symmetry, and polish. It affects how well the diamond reflects light, giving it brilliance and sparkle. The quality of a diamond's cut is crucial in determining its overall beauty and value.
Carat Weight: Carat weight is a measure of a diamond's size, with one carat equal to 200 milligrams. However, carat weight alone does not determine a diamond's value. Other factors such as cut, colour, and clarity also play a significant role in determining its worth.
To find out more about the 'Four C's' check out our blog post.