A Guide to Different types of diamond
Let us tell you a little secret: Not all diamonds are made equal. While they all look similar to the naked eye, each diamond can be completely different from the other. There is an availability of many different types of diamond in the market, from natural to lab grown. So whenever, you are shopping for a piece of jewelry, it will be helpful to know what exactly are options available to you.
According to the Knot 2021 Jewelry and Engagement Study, 85% of Engagement rings are made of diamonds. There is no doubt that the popularity of diamonds is immense. However, there is also a plethora of options available when it comes to choosing diamonds.
So, Let’s take a closer look at the different types of diamonds.
Let’s explore the types of diamond available in the market
Mined Diamonds
For years, mined diamonds have been the only source of diamonds available to people. Natural diamonds are formed inside the earth’s crust under immense heat and pressure over a period of billions of years. They are then extracted from the earth’s crust.
It is quite interesting to note that the earliest known diamonds were extracted from the water banks of India. The diamond industry, which we know today, originated in Africa in 1866.
Natural diamonds take millions of millions to form under exceptional circumstances. Thus, they are rare and are valued much higher. The spark, brilliance, and aesthetic appeal of mined diamonds are unparalleled.
Lab Grown Diamonds
Among the different types of diamond available in the market, lab grown diamonds have emerged as a life savior for those who cannot afford the astronomical price tag of natural diamonds.
Just like natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds have similar physical, chemical, and optical properties. The only difference between them is the source of their origin. While mined diamonds are extracted from the earth, lab grown diamonds are made in laboratories.
Since they are grown in labs, there is no scarcity of them. You get diamonds’ brilliant sparkle, shine, and magnificence without breaking your bank. In simpler terms you can say, lab diamonds are cost-effective.
Raw Diamonds
When you learn about diamond variety, you frequently hear the phrase “raw diamonds.” They are nothing but diamonds that have not yet been polished or cut. Since they are not cut and have a rough and jagged edge, it tends to look cloudier than traditional white diamonds.
A raw diamond cannot be technically called a perfect diamond among the types of diamond. However, when it comes to center stones for diamond engagement rings, it obviously has a lot of fans. The edgy and rustic finishing of a raw diamond makes it a desirable piece of jewelry for anyone who wants something unique and distinguished.
Natural Colored Diamonds
It is not always the case that diamonds are transparent and colorless. They are available in every pattern and color from speckled salt and pepper to canary yellow. Do we mean who wouldn’t want that color as a center stone?
The most common color that a natural diamond may occur is brown. Only in extremely rare circumstances can a diamond appear in purple, blue, red, green, or even pink. The color appears because of the slight changes in their molecular structure or through trace impurities.
However, it would be best to keep in mind that natural-colored diamonds are still diamonds. They should not be confused with colored gemstones like rubies, emeralds, or sapphires.
Color-Treated Diamonds
You can get a color-treated blue diamond or stone with a paler pink tint if that’s what you’re looking for. White transparent diamonds can be color-treated using different types of methods.
Adding any color to a diamond is irreversible. Also, it is hard to distinguish between a diamond that is color-treated the one that is naturally colored. Only a professional gemologist can do that. Sometimes, even color treatment improves the value of diamonds without lowering their value.
Simulated Diamonds
As you know, natural and lab grown diamonds have similar properties. However, simulated diamonds do not have the same chemical makeup as the diamonds produced through CVD or HPHT or those found in the earth’s crust.
Simulated diamonds are affordable; however, they may look different to the naked eye. They are available in various types of materials like cubic zirconia or graphite. One of the most popular synthetic materials is Moissanite. Moissanite, made of silicon carbide, has recently gained popularity due to its similar appearance to diamonds and exceptional radiance.
If you are confused after reading all the possible options and still wondering what is the best stone for diamonds, we might have a little suggestion. Lab grown diamond jewelry is the best option for you if you want the glamour of diamonds on a budget. They look exactly similar to natural diamonds and possess similar properties, minus the heavy price tag of mined ones.
