A Guide to Natural Diamonds

Natural diamonds are one of the most popular choices for fine jewelry, and for good reason. They are known for their hardness, their ability to reflect light, and their history as a symbol for important life events. This guide will walk you through what natural diamonds are, where they come from, and how their quality is determined.

How Natural Diamonds Are Formed

Natural diamonds are the result of a process that happens deep within the Earth. They are made of carbon atoms that are exposed to extreme heat and pressure about 150 kilometers below the surface. This process, which takes place over billions of years, crystallizes the carbon into the rough stones we know as diamonds. These diamonds are then brought closer to the surface through deep volcanic eruptions. Because this natural process is so specific and takes so long, diamonds are a finite resource.

Understanding Diamond Quality: The 4Cs

To provide a consistent way to judge the quality of any diamond, the industry uses a standard grading system known as the 4Cs.

Cut

This is often considered the most important factor because it determines how well a diamond sparkles. "Cut" does not refer to the diamond's shape (like round or oval), but to the quality of its angles, facets, and proportions. A well-cut diamond will reflect and refract light internally and return it through the top, creating the brilliance and fire that diamonds are known for.

Color

Diamond color is graded on a scale from D to Z. A "D" grade means the diamond is completely colorless, which is the highest and rarest grade. As you move down the scale towards Z, the diamond will have a faint yellow or brown tint. For most jewelry, diamonds in the D-J range will appear colorless to the unaided eye.

Clarity

Clarity refers to the small imperfections found in almost every diamond. Imperfections on the inside are called "inclusions," and those on the surface are called "blemishes." The clarity scale ranges from "Flawless" (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) down to "Included" (imperfections are obvious).

Carat

Carat is a measure of a diamond's weight, not its size. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams. While a higher carat weight will generally mean a larger diamond, the cut quality can also affect how large a diamond appears.

The Importance of Ethical Sourcing

A common question today is about how diamonds are sourced. In response to concerns about "conflict diamonds," the industry established the Kimberley Process in 2003. This is an international system designed to prevent diamonds from conflict zones from entering the mainstream market. Reputable jewelers will provide information about their sourcing and can confirm that their diamonds are conflict-free.

Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds

This is a key consideration for many buyers today. Here are the main differences.
Rarity and Market Value
Natural diamonds are a finite resource created by the Earth, and this rarity is the primary reason they have historically held their value. Lab-grown diamonds can be produced in a laboratory in large quantities as needed. This difference in supply means that natural diamonds tend to retain their value much better over the long term.

Origin

The fundamental difference is their origin story. A natural diamond is a unique geological product that is billions of years old. A lab-grown diamond is a piece of modern technology created in a matter of weeks. The choice between them often comes down to a personal preference for one story over the other.

Are Natural Diamonds a Good Investment?

While market prices can fluctuate, high-quality natural diamonds have a long history of holding their value. Because of their rarity and enduring demand, they are often considered a "store of value," meaning they can be passed down through generations as a family heirloom that retains its worth.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Diamond for You

Choosing a diamond is a personal decision. Natural diamonds are valued because they are a rare, finite resource formed by the Earth over billions of years. Their quality is consistently measured by the 4Cs, and the industry has standards in place for ethical sourcing. Their history of value retention makes them a traditional choice for significant jewelry, like engagement rings and family heirlooms.