The diamond is the most famous gemstone because of its prominent external characteristics. Such a gem is difficult to obtain in nature, which further increases its value. The mineral is also frequently used in industry.
Diamond: description and characteristics
The main distinguishing feature of the stone lies among its physical properties – it has a unique strength. On the Mohs scale, the material has 10 points and surpasses any other minerals. There is a list of varieties of diamonds depending on their coloring, but all of them are precious and are used to create jewelry. Most stones are not suitable for processing or are destroyed in the process. Such material, regardless of its appearance, is preserved for industrial purposes.
History of origin
Diamonds were first found in India. It was there that the stone began to be mined on a large scale. These deposits are still in use, but their reserves are noticeably depleted. It was originally used for decoration and jewelry for the nobility. It was also quickly adopted as a talisman or amulet. The material came into industrial use somewhat later.
The first time diamonds were found in India. It was there that the stone began to be mined on a large scale. These deposits are still in use, but their reserves are noticeably depleted. It was originally used for decoration and jewelry for the nobility. It was also quickly adopted as a talisman or amulet. The material came into industrial use somewhat later.
What does the color depend on?
The color of a diamond is determined by the admixtures. The classic mineral is transparent. It can have a white or yellowish hue. Colored stones are extremely rare, such as fancy intense yellow diamond, which are much more expensive and rare. Some of the most common stones are brown ones that contain iron molecules. Also, a yellow kind of diamond is quite common (this coloring is a result of the lithium).
The only stone whose origin is still unknown is the red diamond. Just like the pink minerals, it also contains manganese. However, considering the amount of this element, the gem must have a delicate pink hue. Therefore, the bright coloring of the mineral is a mystery, which makes it even more desirable.
World grading system
All material is graded by quality in order to establish a value. The world system is a combination of several traits that affect the appearance of the stone. There are several criteria by which any diamond suitable for jewelry is judged:
Purity. The fewer inclusions, the better the mineral. Such flaws can affect not only the transparency of the material, but also its shine. The material is divided into six groups according to this parameter. Inclusions in many diamonds are invisible to the naked eye.
Cut. The diamond-maker’s observance of proportions and symmetry directly affects its appearance. The quality of polishing also belongs to this point. Four groups are distinguished. It is important to know that this parameter is not determined by the form of cut.
Color. The best are diamonds that are a saturated color without admixtures of other hues. Transparent stones must not show any yellowish coloring. The coloring of the mineral affects the choice of setting. For example, platinum or white gold are the usual choices for transparent or near-transparent stones.
Weight. The heavier a specimen is, the more valuable it is. Taking into consideration the rarity of diamonds, this parameter has a great influence on their price.
