Whether choosing the perfect engagement ring or deciding on what kind of cutting tool to invest in, there are a variety of diamond types available. From rare pink colored stones to flawlessly created gems, the diamond has many facets.
History
The word diamond derives from the Greek word 'adamas' which means indestructible. First discovered over 3,000 years ago, diamond history is shrouded in mythology. Coveted throughout history, diamonds have constantly stood for wealth and power. In today's world, their popularity shows no sign of waning as they continue to be symbols of power, wealth and love.
Types
There are many different types of diamond from all over the world. They are classed by color with some being rarer, therefore more sought after, than others. Perhaps the most common is the white diamond. This diamond is found all over the world and comes in various shapes and sizes. Some white diamonds have a secondary coloring, making them more valuable. Other than white diamonds there are also blue, yellow, pink, chocolate, green and champagne diamonds. Champagne diamonds range in color from pale yellow to a deep hued cognac. The more intense the color, the higher the value of the gem. These diamonds are all classed as natural diamonds as they are found within the natural world through mining the earth.
There are, however, man-made diamonds that are created synthetically. These are known as synthetic diamonds. As demand grows for diamonds for industrial use, synthetic diamonds are being created to meet that demand. Due to technological advances, synthetic diamonds can now be produced with gem-like quality to their appearance making them available as an alternative to natural diamonds in jewelry. As a result of synthetic gems being widely available, spectroscopes are now used to differentiate between natural and synthetic stones.
Function
Besides jewelry, diamonds have also been used as an industrial tool for some time. The most common industrial use for diamonds is as cutting tool. As it is the hardest known natural substance, diamonds are also incorporated into industrial tools such as angle grinder blades, diamond-tipped drills and saws.
Identification
Identifying diamonds can be performed a number of different ways--from placing diamonds under ultraviolet light to using spectroscopy. There are also devices known as screening machines which can identify a diamond's origin by its color range. Diamonds can also be examined for flaws and imperfections as a way to differentiate between natural and synthetic diamonds.
Size
Diamond sizes are referred to in carats. The bigger the carat, the bigger the diamond and the more value it has. Diamond size is measured by the depth as opposed to the width. Therefore, a one carat round diamond would be approximately 6.4mm to 6.5mm in depth.
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