Diamond

Diamond is one of the universe’s oldest minerals; at least three billion years old. It is composed of one single chemical element, pure carbon, and it has a reputation as the most cherished of all the gemstones. In fact, it is estimated that diamonds account for roughly 90 per cent of the gemstones that are purchased globally, showing their commercial importance.

Diamonds are commonly found in Brazil, Africa, Canada, Russia, and Australia. However, the earliest source of diamonds was in India as early as 800BC, but after the Spanish Conquest, production shifted to Brazil.

They are formed at temperatures between 900 and 1300 degrees Celsius, at a depth of between 90 and 120 miles below the earth’s surface, and at pressures over 45kbar. This is how the oldest diamonds have formed; but diamonds have also been derived from mantle eclogite rock. They grew within this rock, and it is likely that the carbon came from early micro-organisms that lived in the mud of the sea beds.

Just like any other mineral, diamonds retain impurities from the surrounding rock during their growth. This can be anything from single atoms to complete mineral crystals. If they can be seen under an ordinary gemmological microscope, they are known as inclusions. Inclusions are graded so the buyer can get a clear picture regarding diamond quality when they purchase.

There are many qualities that make the diamond superior, however, its hardness sets it apart, as diamonds are the hardest natural substance known. Traditionally, the diamond is the emblem of fearlessness, yet it has also come to be symbolic of love. You can discover all of the information you need to know about this precious gemstone by browsing the Rêve website further.