Some Facts about Diamonds
Diamonds are a very sought after gem that has many uses. It has long been used in jewelry and has many religious implications. They are formed deep below the Earth over many years and are found in fine jewelry in all almost every country.
Below are some interesting facts about diamonds:
- Diamonds are the hardest substance on Earth. This accounts for their use in many types of industrial tools. In fact only 20% of the diamonds that are mined are suitable for jewelry and the rest are used for industrial tools like drills.
- Most natural diamonds are between 1 and 3 billion years of age.
- They are composed only of carbon and are in fact the only gemstone that is made of just one chemical.
- The most expensive diamond ever sold was a 100 carat diamond that sold for about $16.5 Million in 1997.
- To tell the difference between a cubic zirconia, a type of manmade diamond, and a real diamond you should weigh them. A real diamond will weigh less than half of what a cubic zirconia weighs.
- Diamonds have long been used as an engagement ring and the first documented diamond engagement ring was created in 1477.
- The largest diamond ever found is called the Cullian. It is an impressive 3106 carats and is sometimes called the Star of Africa. Currently it can be found atop the scepter of King Edward the VIII and is kept in the Tower of London.