How to Identify a Raw Diamond: A Complete Guide
Diamonds are among the most expensive gemstones in the world, and they have a long, illustrious history. Even though they are very popular, many people have never seen a raw diamond, so they may be interested in what it looks like.
For many people, diamonds have always been a source of fascination. These precious stones are employed in jewellery, business operations, and even academic studies. While the majority of us have seen a diamond in jewellery, very few of us have seen one uncut.
This article aims to provide you with a thorough overview of what raw diamonds look like because they are a rare natural wonder.
What is a Raw Diamond?
An uncut, unpolished diamond that has undergone no treatments or other alterations is referred to as a "raw diamond." It is a pure natural diamond that was taken directly from the earth. Kimberlite pipes, which are volcanic tubes that transport diamonds from the earth's mantle to the surface, are frequently where one can find uncut diamonds.
Raw diamonds must first be extracted, cut, polished, and graded before being used in jewellery or other products.
Physical Characteristics of a Raw Diamond
Diamonds in their unpolished state differ from those in their polished state in a number of ways. These consist of:
Color Of Diamond
In addition to being colourless, raw diamonds can also be yellow, brown, pink, or blue. The presence of impurities and trace elements within a diamond affects the stone's colour.
Clarity Of Diamond
Raw diamonds frequently have a hazy or cloudy appearance. This is brought on by the existence of inclusions or minor flaws within the stone. While inclusions can reduce a diamond's value, they can occasionally also give it a special quality that increases its value.
Diamond Weight
The sizes of raw diamonds range from tiny to enormous. A diamond's weight is expressed in carats, with one carat equaling 0.2 grammes.
Diamond Shape
Octahedral, dodecahedral, and cuboctahedral shapes are just a few examples of the many possible forms of raw diamonds. The crystal structure of a diamond determines its shape.
DiamondTexture
Raw diamonds differ significantly from polished diamonds in appearance due to their rough, unpolished texture. A diamond's texture can give it a distinctive personality and increase its value.
How to Identify a Raw Diamond:
It can be difficult to tell a raw diamond apart because they frequently resemble common rocks. However, there are a number of traits that can assist you in determining a raw diamond:
- Search for an uneven, unpolished texture.
- Look inside the stone for flaws or inclusions.
- Look at the diamond's colour.
- A diamond tester can be used to confirm its legitimacy.
Value of Raw Diamonds:
A raw diamond's value is influenced by a number of elements, such as its size, colour, clarity, and texture. Because they are more difficult to cut and polish before being used in jewellery, raw diamonds are frequently less expensive than polished diamonds.
Cutting and polishing diamonds
Before being used in jewellery, a raw diamond must first be cut and polished after being removed from the earth. Cutting and polishing diamonds is a highly skilled craft that calls for accuracy and knowledge. There are several steps in the process, including:
Planning:
To determine the best way to cut the diamond, it is examined and analysed.
Cleaving:
A specialised tool is used to split the diamond along its inherent lines of weakness.
Bruting:
Using a rotating wheel, the diamond is moulded into a round or oval shape.
Polishing:
To achieve the desired level of shine, the diamond is polished with a series of progressively finer abrasive materials.
Grading:
The diamond is rated according to its carat weight, colour, and clarity.
Depending on the size and complexity of the diamond, cutting and polishing can take weeks or even months to complete.
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