In school chemistry lessons, we learn that diamonds are composed of carbon, a chemical element found on the periodic table with the atomic number 6 and atomic mass 12.
On Earth, diamonds were formed from carbon deep within its depths over 4 billion years ago, under extreme temperatures and very high pressure. This process occurred at a depth of 100-150 kilometers beneath the Earth's surface, in the region between the Earth's crust and its hot core.
Diamonds are typically found deep underground, and through tectonic processes, faults in the Earth's crust can bring them closer to the surface. These occurrences, where diamonds are brought to the Earth's surface through hot magma, are known as Kimberlite Pipes, named after the city of Kimberley in South Africa.
Kimberlite is a volcanic rock that acts as a conduit, bringing diamonds closer to the Earth's surface. Essentially, it serves as a transporter, carrying diamonds from the depths of the Earth to the top. Initially, this rock is formed from hot magma, similar to the molten material that erupts from volcanoes, which then cools and solidifies. Kimberlite Pipes can be found in various locations worldwide, all sharing a similar structure - a cone-shaped pipe that extends towards the Earth's surface. Some of the most renowned Kimberlite Pipes are located in the USA, Canada, Russia, and South Africa.
In the past, diamond mining was plagued by numerous illegal and criminal activities that exploited slave labor or hostages to extract diamonds. Illegal organizations engaged in diamond trading to fund various criminal activities in Africa. These diamonds, known as "blood" diamonds, were associated with violence and organized crime. To combat this unethical practice, the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was established in 2003. The Kimberley Certificate verifies that diamonds have been mined and traded legally, without any involvement in violence or organized crime. To obtain this certification, diamond-producing and trading organizations undergo rigorous audits conducted by independent international experts to ensure compliance with legal standards. The Kimberley Certificate aims to eradicate the illegal smuggling and trading of diamonds, promoting ethical practices within the industry.
The Kimberley Agreement currently encompasses approximately 49 countries worldwide, overseeing 99.8% of all diamonds in the market. Legal transactions with diamonds are contingent upon possessing a Kimberley Certificate. As a result, "blood diamonds" have largely disappeared from the market, with all jewelry now crafted from diamonds certified by the Kimberley Certificate.
One of the earliest discoveries of diamonds occurred in India, where diamond cutting technology first began to develop. Historically, diamonds were utilized in their raw, uncut form. Ancient cultures attributed special properties to diamonds, believing they possessed magical qualities that brought good fortune and success. During that era, diamonds were utilized in their natural state - unpolished and uncut. The art of diamond cutting commenced in the 14th century, initially focusing on polishing the stone to enhance its brilliance; however, the technology was still rudimentary. Subsequently, in the 15th century, a method utilizing diamond dust for cutting diamonds was introduced. The first recorded instance of a diamond engagement ring dates back to Mary of Burgundy, who was presented with one by Archduke Maximilian III of the Habsburg family.
Natural diamonds are the most sought-after gemstones in the world, a miraculous gift from the Universe itself. Many people still believe in the magical powers attributed to natural diamonds, seeing them as symbols of love and success. Heirloom diamond jewelry is treasured and passed down from generation to generation, increasing in value over time. Neither wars, cataclysms, nor upheavals can diminish the enduring magic of diamonds!
It is important to note that synthetic diamonds, also known as lab-grown diamonds, have emerged in recent years. There are currently two main technologies for producing artificial diamonds: HPHT (High-Pressure-High-Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). Dealers of lab-grown diamonds have coined various terms for these products, such as grown diamonds, laboratory diamonds, and green diamonds (Lab-Grown, Green Diamonds). Synthetic diamonds and natural diamonds share the same crystal lattice structure, as well as similar optical, physical, and chemical properties.
The primary distinction between them lies in their formation process: natural diamonds were created over billions of years by nature, while synthetic diamonds are grown in a controlled environment by humans in a matter of weeks.
The price of natural diamonds continues to rise annually, whereas synthetic diamonds are becoming increasingly more affordable due to advancements in production technology. As artificial diamonds flood the market, their cost decreases. In recent years, the price of synthetic diamonds has significantly dropped. This trend extends to other artificial gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds, which can be found among dealers for prices ranging from 5 to 15 dollars per carat. A similar fate awaits synthetic diamonds.
In conclusion, it can be said that natural diamonds, like genuine emotions, hold a much higher value than any artificial imitation. It is the natural gemstones, created by Nature itself, that serve as a symbol of true love. Therefore, a self-respecting man always presents his beloved with only NATURAL diamonds.
Founder & CEO
Amir Ashurov
