As Marilyn Monroe famously sang, diamonds are something very special. In fact, they are probably the most sophisticated and valuable stones in the world. Unlike precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum, there is no fixed price for diamonds. This is because no two diamonds are alike.

In our diamond knowledge guide, we would like to present some interesting information about the jewels. You may already know some of these details, while others may surprise you. For example, what is the difference between a brilliant and a diamond? What determines the market value of a diamond? Here you can find out the answers to these questions and much more!

Rough diamonds

Full of secrets

Rough diamonds are unprocessed gemstones that have not been ground. In this state, their features are not clear to see – and that is what makes a rough diamond so mysterious. Only when they are ground and polished can their true quality and clarity come to light. This craft can only be performed by an experienced diamond grinder.

The 4 C

Diamond appreciation and grading

You will have almost certainly heard of the four Cs in relation to diamonds. These are the four most important quality characteristics when grading the jewels. The first factor referred to when evaluating a diamond is its weight, described by the number of carats. One carat is equivalent to 0.2 g. The more carats a diamond has, the heavier and more valuable it is. Here you can find out which other criteria affect the value of a diamond.

Diamond grinding

When it begins to sparkle

Only when a diamond is ground by a professional craftsman does it begin to sparkle. It is up to an experienced diamond grinder to decide exactly how each gemstone should be formed. There are various types of grinding, but exact calculations and even polishing are absolutely essential. If you would like to find out more about diamond grinding, read this information.

Clarity

Diamonds beyond price

Clarity is one of the most important factors when assessing quality, especially when it comes to colorless diamonds. Experts make a distinction between flaws and inclusions. Even though these are not visible at first glance, almost every diamond has them. A flawless diamond represents a very rare find indeed, and such stones are priceless.

Diamond vs. brilliant

The last cut

The two terms are often used incorrectly as synonyms, but a brilliant is actually a diamond with a special cut. That is the secret. The brilliant is the finest cut that can be given to a rough diamond, and it has also been the most desirable ever since its development in 1910.

Deep sea diamonds

Where do they come from

Diamonds do not originally come from the sea. Over billions of years, gaseous carbon in the hot interior of the earth was extremely compressed until it crystallized to form diamonds. Later, volcanic activity transported these jewels to the earth’s surface in their natural state.

Diamonds:

Important information at a glance