What makes diamonds so special? How did diamonds get their claim to fame? Why are they the go-to stone for nearly every jeweler in the world? We’ll cover all this, and more, as we discuss “What is a diamond, anyways?”.
What makes a diamond special?
Diamonds are rare- incredibly rare. It can take over ten years of focused research to identify a diamond mine, and decades before the first diamond from that mine is ever used for jewelry. The long and hard process of discovering diamond deposits is so greuling, it makes sense why diamonds are classified as precious. Throughout time, diamonds have become one of if not the most demanded gemstones in jewelry and accessories around the world.
Once the diamond has been identified and processed, there are many different qualities that can distinguish a regular diamond from a better one. In the jewelry industry we identify diamond quality by observing the 4 C’s- Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. These attributes can help you understand how valuable a diamond actually is. To learn more about diamond qualities, you can read our article on the Four C’s here.
What are diamonds made of?
(Raw diamond in matrix)
Diamonds are the only gem made out of a single element. Natural diamonds are typically composed of over 99.95% carbon. The remaining .05% includes one or more trace elements, aka atoms that are not part of the diamond’s essential chemistry. Trace elements can be correlated with the diamond’s color and crystal shape (for example- the trace element Boron can be held responsible for the blue tint in diamonds). Rockford Collection meticulously chooses the highest grade diamonds in the range of F/G color and VS₁- VS₂ clarity. You can read more about how the cut, color, clarity, and carat weight affect the value of a diamond here.
Where do diamonds come from?
(The world’s largest diamond - the Lesedi La Rona)
Diamonds are formed in carbon deposits between 75 and 120 miles below the Earth’s crust- far deeper than any hole dug by man. Immense pressure builds up and forces the atoms of century-old carbon elements to fuse together- forming a diamond. These diamonds are then slowly cycled towards the crust of the Earth through years of volcanic eruptions until one day, they are close enough to the surface that they can be mined using modern day methods and technologies.
(overhead view of diamond mine)
Geographically speaking, diamonds are most commonly found in kimberlites, which are pipe-like formations that were created as a result of volcanic activity. The most profitable formations can be found in Russia, Botswana, Canada, South Africa, and the Congo. Rockford Collection prides itself on sourcing only natural, conflict free diamonds.
Why should you wear a diamond?
Rarity aside, there are still many reasons why diamonds are the reigning champion of success symbols. Foremost, diamonds are known to promote inner serenity by improving one’s health and intelligence. Astrologists have also attributed the qualities of tranquility, good fortune, and wealth, to those who wear diamonds. A testament of time, diamonds have been used to signify never ending love since the late fifteenth century, when Archduke Maximillian of Austria proposed to his fiancee with a diamond engagement ring. Even before that, diamonds have been found throughout history, serving as status symbols for powerful individuals around the world including royalty, political leaders, and oligarchs.
However, there are a few other qualities that we love. There is nothing as sparkly as a great diamond. Diamonds are the hardest gemstone known to man, incredibly tough and resilient yet beautiful to look at and admire. Diamonds are also the only gemstone that can slow down light the way they do- creating a brilliant display of reflection and refraction that mesmerizes and entertains for generations. Diamonds will be here many hundreds and thousands of years beyond us… Now that is truly magical.
What Metal Combinations Do Diamonds Suit?
Diamonds look incredible in every metal, but are best suited for gold and platinum. This is why Rockford Collection primarily uses diamonds in our gold and platinum rings. To learn more about precious metals and what makes them different, you can read here.
What colors do Diamonds come in?
Diamonds are most commonly found in various shades of clear, but colored diamonds are not unheard of. Due to trace elements found in diamonds that vary based on location and environment, diamonds have been discovered in almost every color including blue, red, yellow, and green. To view the Rockford Collection of colored diamonds and gemstones, tap here.
Conclusion:
Throughout history, diamonds have been held as a status symbol indicating wealth, honor, loyalty, and never-ending love. Thanks to their rarity and value, diamonds have also become the most popular gemstone to be used in jewelry. The origin of the diamond engagement ring can be traced back to the late fifteenth century, and diamonds have held their position in the market, and in the hearts of consumers, ever since.
