Diamond
Although it is a mineral consisting solely of carbon, the diamond is known as the hardest natural substance on Earth. Its name is derived from the Greek word adamas, meaning "unconquerable," and its Japanese name, "kongo-seki" (vajra stone), also carries the meaning of "a stone so hard it cannot be carved."
Since a Swedish research team succeeded in creating the world's first synthetic diamond under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions in 1953, gem-quality synthetic diamonds are now produced all over the world, becoming an important presence not only in industrial applications but also in the jewelry market.
Diamonds, symbols of eternal brilliance
Basic Information
| English Name | Diamond |
|---|---|
| Japanese Name | Kongo-seki |
| Chemical Composition | C (Carbon) |
| Crystal System | Isometric |
| Hardness | 10 (Mohs scale) |
| Specific Gravity | Approx. 3.52 |
Fancy Colors and Their Causes
While common bridal diamonds are valued for ranging from colorless to slightly yellowish, colored diamonds, known as "fancy colors," are recognized for having exceptional value.
- Most valuable colors: Deep red, followed by intense blue and intense green.
- Green diamonds: Caused by natural radiation affecting the surface near the crystal.
- Pink diamonds: Color is caused by structural distortion in the crystal; the color may fade if the distortion is released during cutting.
- Yellow diamonds: Colored yellow by the inclusion of nitrogen (N).
- Blue diamonds: Colored blue by the inclusion of boron (B).
- Milky diamonds: A rare type with a milky, cloudy appearance, sometimes considered the most uncommon type of diamond.
Synthesis, Treatments, and Modern Technology
Currently, gem-quality synthetic diamonds are produced using methods such as High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). These technologies allow for the creation and distribution of synthetic diamonds in various hues.
Additionally, natural diamonds may undergo treatments such as irradiation, heating, or high-pressure, high-temperature treatment to improve or alter their color. Consequently, distinguishing between "natural/synthetic" and "untreated/treated" has become more important than ever in today's diamond market.
Care Tips: Although diamonds have the world's highest "hardness," their "toughness" (resistance to fracturing) is not absolute, and they can be prone to chipping if subjected to strong impact along the cleavage direction. Furthermore, because synthetic and treatment technologies have become so sophisticated, reports from reliable gemological laboratories are essential for assessing value. In bridal jewelry, choices are expanding to align with personal lifestyles and values, such as choosing between synthetic diamonds or opting for natural, untreated ones.