An Introduction to Diamonds
The diamond is the toughest object in nature that we know of, however it is a precious stone of the simplest form. It is a gem made up of carbon atoms arranged into a crystalline lattice order.
An average person can easily identify an inexpensive cubic zirconia crystal from a real diamond because the zirconia loses its lustre very quickly. However, identifying a synthetic fake diamond from a real one is more challenging. It requires the keen eye of a highly skilled jeweller.
To determine its value, experts consider many things when examining a diamond, such as its symmetry, table percentage, and fluorescence. The starting point is the four Cs.
1. Cut - Cut relates to the proportions, finish, symmetry, and brilliance of the diamond. The environment is responsible for the color of a diamond, its clarity and carat, but it is the skilled diamond cutter that can turn a rough gemstone into its most beautiful form.
2. Color - Diamond color varies from degrees of yellow to the higher quality and less common colorless variety. Colors can also range from intense yellow to brown, blue, green, pink and red. These fancy colors are rare and therefore more valuable.
3. Clarity - This describes the clearness or purity of a diamond. Just like fingerprints, no two diamonds are the same. This is because diamonds have tiny internal flaws of non-crystallized carbon called "inclusions" that are mainly invisible to a human eye. These inclusions alter a diamond's clarity.
4. Carat - A diamond's weight is measured in increments called points. 100 points is equal to one carat. However, because large diamonds are rare, they are priced higher. For example, a 2-carat diamond is priced higher than that of 2 1-carat diamonds even though the quality may be the same.
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