A diamond, whatever color it may be, is fascinating but there is something really captivating about its black version. Even though it is the direct opposite of the ever famous colorless diamond, the magical aura it emits has made the black diamond exceptionally popular in today’s market.
The color of a black diamond is either natural or achieved with the aid of coloring methods. The treatment the diamond undergoes does not harm the gem’s physical and chemical composition. The only noticeable change is its permanent alteration in color. Black diamonds typically cheaper than the white ones. This makes it a good choice for diamond jewelry enthusiasts who want to show off their collection.
Symbolism Of The Black Diamond
Everyone is aware that white diamonds are formed in the deepest parts of the earth. These precious rocks came to the surface of the earth because of erupting volcanoes millions of years ago. According to research, natural black diamonds are a lot older, dating back approximately 4 billion years ago. The residents of Brazil are believed to have called the natural black diamonds “carbonado” in the late 1700s. The name means “burnt” and was derived because of the diamond’s similarities to porous charcoal.
This made experts believe that a few billion years ago, a mega supernova led to the origin of natural black diamonds. And that they fell on our planet in the form of a massive asteroid. It is not shocking that in today’s age, the black diamond is linked to valor and power. Black diamonds have also become a famous option as a center stone for various engagement rings because of its unique and mystical appeal.
Properties of Black Diamonds
Strength
Black diamonds are natural gems that have undergone color enhancement treatments, leaving their original composition unaltered. Black diamonds still score a perfect 10 in mineral hardness according to Mohs’ scale. They are still durable and ideal for everyday wear.
Irradiation
Irradiation is the process in which a diamond is exposed to intense energy molecules which causes the carbon atoms to be misplaced. The effect of this method is the change in the diamond’s color because it changes the physical characteristics of the gem. To be able to achieve the desired color of the atoms, the diamond is exposed to intense heat called annealing. Irradiation is a certified safe process and is usually administered inside the confines of a laboratory. The color change that the diamonds go through will be permanent.
High Pressure and High Temperature
This process of improving diamonds is also conducted inside a laboratory and it consistently duplicates the natural process in which diamonds are made below the crust of our planet. This process includes the exposure of the precious rocks to intense pressure and heat which causes the gem to permanently change in color. After the exposure, the diamonds are then polished and shined. The process takes just a few hours and makes it possible to attain different diamond colors.
Difference of Black Diamonds and White Diamonds
Both diamonds are almost exactly identical except for the fact that black diamonds are made by the addition of graphite in the crystalline composition during its formation, which happens before the kimberlite minerals reach the planet’s surface. Both versions of diamond are similarly created by the intense pressure put on carbon by the earth’s crust that generates a recurrent geometric pattern in the diamond’s framework.
Black diamonds have recently seen an increase in popularity, bringing the prices for these on par with naturally-occuring white diamonds. They are being used more and more as the center stone in rings, necklaces, and other forms of jewelry.
