Diamonds are crystallized minerals made up entirely of carbon atoms. The crystal lattice of a perfect diamond consists of tetrahedral carbon, meaning each carbon atom is in the center of a tetrahedron made up of other carbon atoms. The entire tetrahedron forms a three-dimensional structure within which the atoms are held together by covalent bonds (the strongest chemical bond).

Diamonds have been and still are mined in many parts of the world. However, their various localities are quite limited and are always associated with an occurrence of the magmatic transport material kimberlite. In very rare localities, such as the Argyle Mine in Australia, diamonds occur in the very similar transport material lamproite.

Hardness:

Stones of different quality are obtained from the yield from a mine. Natural diamonds come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. In professional circles, this is called raw mining, also known as "Run Of Mine". The quality of rough diamonds varies, from clear to opaque, from colorless to every hue imaginable. The size or weight can vary from microscopically small to 3106 carats.

There are different detection methods and using certain detection techniques, but one should fall back on the experienced eye here. As a loaner, you don't have a 100% way of telling a diamond from an imitation. There are some characteristics to look out for, such as surface wear, heavy wear indicates imitation, diamonds have none or very little wear. However, this cannot be a guarantee, because it is not proof of it if there is no wear and tear to be found.

The brilliant is the famous round cut and is the best known and most coveted shape of a diamond. In 1914 M. Tolkowsky published a mathematical study of the optical properties of the brilliant cut, in which he described the perfect proportion and color gradients for perfect brilliance. These values, which he shaped, are still regarded today as an example of a well-polished stone.

Sharpening requires a great deal of experience, because one wrong move can cause considerable internal and external damage or even ruin the stone.

As you probably know, the round brilliant cut is the most common shape,

Diamonds have been known to mankind for a very long time, many cultures have already used them. Diamonds were first discovered in India around 800 BC, and it remained mankind's only known source of sparkling diamonds until the 18th century.

Geologists search all over the world for the always coveted diamonds. They use the latest technology as well as traditional methods to locate diamonds.

Diamond exchanges are the perfect meeting place for diamond dealers, manufacturers and brokers to buy or sell cut or industrial diamonds. The diamond exchanges are also important places for traders to obtain and exchange information.

Antwerp (AWDC) plays a leading role in the implementation of a so-called certification system for rough diamonds. The system is referred to as the Kimberley Process, which is still referred to today. This system, formally adopted in 2003, ensures that no blood diamonds enter the legitimate diamond supply chain. More than 70 governments have now incorporated this Kimberley Process certification scheme into their national legislation.