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Stephen Alan's Jewellers - The Jewellery Blog
If you were born in April, your birthstone is the Diamond, a gemstone which symbolises strength, clarity and everlasting love.
So, in celebration of those lucky enough to have the diamond as their birthstone, we thought we’d create this short blog post all about diamonds.
We’ll take a quick look into the origins of diamonds, what coloured diamonds are, and the debate between lab-grown and real diamonds.
What Are Diamonds?
Chemically, diamonds consist entirely of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure.
But, what truly sets diamonds apart is their formation process, which occurs deep within the Earth's mantle under intense heat and pressure over millions to billions of years.
The journey of a diamond begins with carbon atoms being subjected to extreme conditions, typically around 90 to 120 miles beneath the Earth's surface. Here, temperatures can reach over 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit (1,200 degrees Celsius), and pressures exceed 725,000 pounds per square inch (50,000 atmospheres).
Under these extreme conditions, carbon atoms bond together in a precise, repeating pattern to form diamond crystals. These crystals gradually grow over time as carbon-rich fluids or magma carry carbon atoms from the mantle to the Earth's surface through volcanic activity. Diamonds can also form through less common processes such as impact events, where intense pressure and heat generated by meteorite impacts cause carbon to crystallize into diamonds.
Following their formation, diamonds may undergo a journey of thousands of miles, transported by rivers and streams or embedded in kimberlite pipes, igneous rock formations that are the primary source of diamonds. Through geological processes such as erosion and weathering, diamonds are eventually brought to the Earth's surface, where they can be discovered and mined.
Today, diamonds are mined from various locations around the world, including Africa, Russia, Australia, Canada, and parts of South America. The process of extracting diamonds from the Earth involves both traditional mining methods, such as open-pit mining and underground mining, as well as newer technologies like marine mining, which extracts diamonds from the ocean floor.
Overall, diamonds are not only stunning gems but also geological marvels that offer a glimpse into the Earth's deep history and processes. Their origins deep within the Earth's mantle and their journey to the surface make diamonds a symbol of endurance, resilience, and natural beauty.
What Are Coloured Diamonds?
When we think of diamonds, we often picture the classic, dazzling white gemstone. But did you know that diamonds come in a spectrum of colours, each with its own unique allure? Coloured diamonds, also known as fancy diamonds, are a captivating marvel of nature that have been prized for centuries.
Unlike their colourless counterparts, coloured diamonds derive their hues from chemical impurities or structural defects during their formation process. These rare gems can exhibit a kaleidoscope of colours ranging from vivid blues and vibrant yellows to rich pinks, greens, and even striking reds. The intensity and purity of colour in these diamonds are what set them apart, making them highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
One of the most famous coloured diamonds is the Hope Diamond, renowned for its deep blue hue and storied history. Another notable example is the Pink Star, a stunning pink diamond that set a world record when it sold at auction for over $71 million.
The rarity of coloured diamonds adds to their mystique and value. Only a fraction of diamonds mined each year display significant colour, making them a prized commodity in the world of luxury jewellery. Factors such as hue, saturation, and tone all contribute to the desirability and price of these gems, with certain colours commanding premium prices due to their scarcity.
Coloured diamonds have captured the imagination of gem enthusiasts and jewellers alike, inspiring creativity in design and sparking fascination with their beauty and rarity. Whether adorning a regal crown or gracing the finger of a beloved, coloured diamonds continue to enchant and captivate, reminding us of the awe-inspiring diversity of the natural world.
Lab Diamonds Versus Real Diamonds
In recent years, lab-grown diamonds have emerged as a popular alternative to natural diamonds. These diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond-growing process.
While lab diamonds share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, they are often more affordable and come with fewer ethical concerns, as they are produced without the environmental impact and human rights issues associated with diamond mining.
However, some purists argue that lab diamonds lack the mystique and rarity of natural diamonds, which have been formed over millions of years in the Earth's depths. Natural diamonds also carry a romanticism and historical significance that cannot be replicated by their lab-grown counterparts.
Ultimately, whether you choose a natural diamond or a lab-grown one depends on your personal preferences, values, and budget. Both options offer stunning beauty and lasting quality, ensuring that you'll cherish your diamond for a lifetime.
In conclusion
Diamonds are not only a symbol of luxury and love but also a testament to the wonders of nature and human ingenuity. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of a colourless diamond or the vibrant allure of a coloured one, diamonds never fail to dazzle and delight, making them a timeless treasure for generations to come.
Buy Diamond Jewellery in Leighton Buzzard
If you're looking to buy stunning preowned diamond jewellery or bespoke diamond jewellery in Leighton Buzzard, visit us at Stephen Alan's Jewellers, one of the areas leading diamond jewellery specialists.