There are several different types of diamonds that you should know about. If you want to learn more, check out this guide.
Marilyn Monroe claimed that “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” However, everyone can be mesmerized by the iconic glow of a diamond.
50% of the world’s diamond sales are in the United States. Diamonds are the typical luxury item. They’re most often seen on engagement rings but are also featured in just about every jewelry staple.
From the 4 C’s to how they’re grown, there are many different types of diamonds. In addition, diamonds are made into all shapes and even colors. Continue reading to find all out about the different diamonds.
Natural Diamonds
There are many theories on how natural diamonds form. Geologists believe diamonds form in the earth’s mantle and volcanic eruptions deliver the diamonds to the surface.
Natural diamonds are the quintessential colorless diamonds we all recognize. Contrary to popular belief, diamonds aren’t rare at all. However, they’re difficult to find, which is why we use mining techniques to retrieve them.
Man-Made Diamonds
Man-made diamonds, also known as lab grown diamonds, are becoming a common trend.
What’s the difference between lab grown diamonds vs real diamonds? They both look similar and their chemical makeup is also almost identical.
The major difference is how they’re created. As stated previously, diamonds are extracted using mining techniques.
Lab grown diamonds are synthetic, helping reduce time and mining labor. This is also why man-made diamonds are significantly cheaper.
Treated Diamonds
Not all natural diamonds are perfect. Most diamonds have imperfections. These include cavities, cloudiness, and even color alterations. If a diamond is less-than-perfect, it can be treated to enhance its appearance.
This results in more attractive diamonds that have increased value. In addition, these diamonds are still considered lower quality than non-treated diamonds, which makes treated diamonds more affordable.
Colored Diamonds
The only thing rarer than a perfect non-treated diamond is a natural colored diamond.
These colors can range from blue to pink and colored diamonds can be found all over the world. These colors based on the light hues the diamond absorbs.
Colored diamonds are becoming a popular trend. More celebrities are sporting them and colored diamonds are popular engagement rings.
Because of their popularity, treated and lab grown colored diamonds are also becoming more common, achieving a beautiful colored diamond while reducing the price.
The Two Different Types of Diamonds
When diamonds are forming, nitrogen can substitute carbon and affect the diamond’s structure. That’s why diamonds are separated into two classes: type I and type II.
Type I diamonds are the most common. Nitrogen atoms made their way inside the stone, appearing as clusters. This affects the color of the diamond.
Type IA gives a yellow tint while Type IB diamonds give off a blue or green tint. Most colored diamonds are type IB diamonds.
Most of the fine diamonds you see on the market are Type II diamonds. These diamonds have no nitrogen impurities. They’re also harder and larger than Type I diamonds.
Type IIa diamonds are the most desirable. But Type IIb diamonds give off a unique blue tone, thanks to Boron.
From Type to Color: Diamonds Are Exquisite Stones
After knowing the different types of diamonds, you probably appreciate these stones even more. This is why diamonds are still the perfect gift for your SO and why they make amazing engagement rings.
Are you planning on proposing to your girlfriend? Or need more relationship advice? Love goes beyond diamonds. Take a look at our romance and relationship advice articles.
A professional writer with over a decade of incessant writing skills. Her topics of interest and expertise range from health, nutrition and psychology.