By Chelsea Reed
Who doesn’t know about the famous diamond? It’s the birthstone of April and the most popular engagement ring choice. You probably already know that the diamond is the hardest material in the world. But have you heard about these interesting facts, too? Test your gem knowledge and find out!
The word “diamond” comes from the Greek word “adamas,” which means indestructible. They are mined in many countries like India, Brazil, and South Africa. The largest recorded diamond was the Cullinan diamond, discovered in 1905. The mine owner gave it to King Edward for royal use. It came from South Africa and weighed 1.33 pounds, an astounding 3,106 carats!
Only one fifth of the world’s natural diamonds are gem grade, but the rest are still useful. Because of their hardness, these diamonds are ground up and infused with tools for cutting and grinding many things, including other diamonds.
No, we’re not talking about Darth Vader, but some diamonds may have an equally sinister reputation. Known as ‘blood diamonds,’ these rogue gems are sold by international rebels to fund the black market, or acts of war. Fortunately, more customers are aware of this issue and prefer to purchase conflict free diamonds.
Lab grown diamonds are diamonds made by humans in simulated conditions that mimic the Earth’s mantle. They’re becoming popular because they are environmentally friendly and the chances of a lab grown diamond being a blood diamond are very small. However, they could pose other problems because…
Even though they look natural, lab grown diamonds may not be a good investment. No one knows if their value will appreciate. While it’s true that lab grown diamonds have little environmental impact, they could take thousands of jobs away from third-world African and South American communities, who are already screening out blood diamonds. Over 80% of the world’s mined diamonds are conflict free, thanks in part to the renowned Kimberley Process.
Estate diamonds are an excellent investment for the thoughtful customer. Because they were already mined and owned, they are eco-friendly. The chances of conflict are incredibly small. Natural diamond estate jewelry won’t harm local mining economies. Best of all, their value appreciates. An estate diamond ring could have an incredible history.
Yes, it’s true! Scientists discovered a carbon planet 40 light years from Earth in 2004. It’s entirely encrusted by graphite. A third of it could be made from diamonds! Fortunately, we don’t have to worry about extraterrestrial conflict for a long time. The planet is so close to its sun, the surface is a blistering 3,900 degrees fahrenheit.
Chelsea Reed is a copywriter who writes winning content, articles, blogs, and websites from her base in North Carolina. She might not be building sandcastles or swashbuckling with pirates these days, but the Outer Banks beaches continue to keep her young at heart.
