Diamonds and Fine Jewelry

Learn about diamonds and more on this blog

Are Diamonds Forever?

Filed under: diamonds — mobilitymary at 1:37 pm on Friday, July 25, 2008

They often say a diamond is forever, and in many ways it is. A diamond is an allotrope of carbon that has usually spent at least a billion years forming under the surface of the Earth. They are very valuable and have been treasured by mankind since their discovery and, since they are so strong, diamonds are also frequently used in tools like drills and saws.

When purchasing diamond jewelry, you will want to ensure that it has a valid certification. Independent gemological laboratories rate a diamond based on the 4C’s. The certificate will allow you as a buyer to have proof that the diamonds attributes are as stated by the dealer and are used to determine the value of the diamond.

While certification is important, you should also always consider the diamonds sparkle or brilliance as it is called. Brilliance is something that can be scientifically determined by how it returns light and can be seen by the naked eye as well.  A brilliant diamond will seem to be on ‘fire.’

Some diamonds are available that are colored are usually referred to as “fancy colored diamonds” in the diamond industry. Naturally colored diamonds can be very expensive, but they can also be artificially colored. Always find out if they are naturally colored, because usually synthetically colored diamonds do not have the same value as a completely natural diamond.

Diamonds are beautiful pieces of jewelry and can be bought for many occasions.

Diamond Mining In Australia at the Ellendale Mine

Filed under: diamonds — mobilitymary at 2:50 pm on Friday, July 18, 2008

A diamond is a type of carbon that has been compressed at very high pressure deep below the earth for many millions of years. They are usually found by mining and often are brought to the surface as a result of a volcanic explosion. Their beauty and elegance are deeply entrenched in our culture.

About half of all diamonds are found in Africa, but they are also prevalent in Canada, India, Russia, and Australia. Recently a mine in Australia has been rejuvenated and has greatly improved its production rate.

The Ellendale diamond mind is one of the few diamond mines left in Australia that consistently has produced quality diamonds. Recently a change of ownership at the mine took place. A company called Gem Diamonds took over the operation.

In the past month they have broken several production records, in regards to processing ore. In June of 2007 the mine produced 557,091 tones of ore. Last month they processed a 670,000 tons of ore, which resulted in a record 57, 814 carats.

Ellendale is most well known for the production of fancy and vivid yellow diamonds. Over the past 12 years the value of these types of diamonds is estimated at increasing 500%.