6 Unusual Diamond Facts to Know
Diamonds are not just a girl’s best friend but a well-loved gem by many. While you may think you know a lot about the commonly adored stone, there are so many unusual facts about diamonds. But before we get into the intriguing facts, let’s take a look at some tips to consider before purchasing the perfect diamond.
Before Purchasing the Perfect Diamond
- Popularity and Availability:
If you prefer a 3-carat diamond or under, then round diamonds are the most popular choice. However, if you are thinking of a 4-carat diamond ring or more, then emerald, cushion, and oval cuts are more in demand. Certain cuts like Princess or Asscher cuts are less in demand.
- Size of the Diamond:
As the carat (weight) of the diamond increases, the size also increases. This is because both the width and depth increase when the weight of the diamond increases.
- Price Ranking:
There are many factors like the cut, clarity, and color of a diamond that determines its value. You should always go for a diamond that has a clear cut, has good clarity and color, and falls within your budget.
Unusual Diamond Facts to Know
1. Diamonds Can Burn
Yes, you heard that right! Everything in this universe has a heating and cooling point. Similarly, for diamonds, when heated for a longer duration, exceeding the heating point can cause them to burn. However, the burning point of a diamond is extremely high. At about 1290-1650 degrees Fahrenheit is when we can expect a diamond to burn. This happens only when a diamond is in extremely hot places like lava or fires.
2. The Largest Rough Diamond
The Cullinan Diamond is the largest rough diamond in history to date. This diamond was discovered in South Africa in 1905. The weight of The Cullinan Diamond is 3,106 carats.
You can see the 105 diamonds cut out of The Cullinan Diamond to be extremely clear with exceptional color. Out of the diamonds, two of them are embellished in the British crown jewels, and others are in possession of other individuals including Queen Elizabeth II.
3. The Hope Diamond
The beautiful dark greyish-blue color of The Hope Diamond is its most distinguishing factor among other diamonds. Originally the weight of The Hope Diamond was estimated to be 112 carats however, after cutting, it was reduced to 45.52 carats. There are many interesting myths about this diamond too. Some people believe that the exquisite and expensive piece of rock is cursed. Overall, it is the most legendary gem in the world.
4. Diamond Extraction Prior to Mining
In the early discovery of diamonds, you would find them alongside or beneath the seawater. The process of mining diamonds like this is called alluvial mining. Today, we mine for diamonds below the surface of the earth using heavy and expensive machinery.
5. The Lucy Diamond
Aside from under the sea and beneath the surface, there are some very strange places where diamonds are found, including even the sky. In 2007, the astrophysics department of Harvard discovered a 10 billion-trillion-trillion carat diamond, The Lucy Diamond. Thanks to technology, we’ve come to learn that diamonds are actually very common in the atmosphere.
6. Loss of Weight of a Diamond
When diamonds are first extracted in nature, they are usually pretty rough looking. To bring the best out of the diamond, it must go through an extensive process of cutting and polishing. This is when the diamond loses its weight. During the cutting and polishing of the diamond, it loses approximately 50% of its rough diamond weight. This is what makes the diamond look sleek, clear, and exquisite.
The Bottom Line
A diamond is a precious stone with a long history full of unusual facts. We hope this information helps you have the best experience when picking out the perfect diamond.
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