Diamond Production
Diamonds have unique properties which are unmatched by any other substance on the planet. Due to this, diamonds have been used for a variety of purposes.
The diamond is one of the oldest substances in the world, as well as one of the most sought after and treasured gemstones in the world. From its molecular structure to its industrial and commercial uses, the diamond is truly remarkable.
Diamonds are naturally borne from the earth, and man has taken to cutting and faceting them to bring out their fiery brilliance. Found in kimberlite and lamproite deposits, diamonds make their way to the surface of the earth via volcanic activity.
Diamonds go through a rather long process from the moment it leaves the earth by the time it gets to a store for purchase by the general public. Diamond bourses are one step in the process of a rough diamond's journey to becoming a sparkling diamond.
Cutting diamonds from the rough is a particularly painstaking process, as precautions must be taken in order not to damage the diamond. Once only done by hand, the procedure of cutting diamonds was made easier by later innovations.
Jewelers have always tried to improve the quality of diamonds and have employed various techniques of doing so. At times, they will recut a diamond if it gets chipped; irradiation or the HPHT process is used in order to change the diamond's color; and clarity enhancement implements fracture filling and laser drilling to improve the diamond's clarity. Not only are diamonds treated to improve their natural imperfections, but various techniques have been applied to create synthetic diamonds for industrial uses as well as costume jewelry.
The Rapaport Diamond Report is practically the industry standard when it comes to diamond pricing. Color, cut, clarity, carat weight and a host of other factors determine a diamond's price and this ballpark figure is what vendors base their prices on.