Diamonds

Diamond is by far the hardest material known. Only a diamond can scratch another diamond. Diamonds are composed almost exclusively of carbon. They commonly contain traces of nitrogen that is responsible for the yellow tint.
The value of a diamond is determined by four characters also known as the 4 C's: Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight.

Color:
Color is graded based on how much yellow or brown tint can be seen in the stone. The color is graded alphabetically from D to Z; D-H are the most desirable colors.

Clarity:
Clarity refers to its lack of inclusions. The cleaner the stone, the rarer and costlier. Clarity is graded as followed:
FL (Flawless)
IF (Internally Flawless)
VVS- 1 or 2 (Very, Very Slightly Included)
VS- 1 or 2 (Very Slightly Included)
SI- 1 or 2 (Slightly Included)
I- 1 or 2 or 3 (Included).

Cut:
The cut gives the stone maximum life. The proportions of a well-cut diamond will reflect light from one mirror-like facet to another and disperse it through the top of the stone in a most brilliant way.

Carat:
Carat is defined as 200 milligrams or 1/5 gram. It is also referred to it terms of points (100 points = 1 carat), particularly for stones under 1 carat.
Diamond prices are quoted per carat. The price increases per carat since larger stones are more limited in supply, particularly fine quality.

Fancy colored diamonds of fine quality (pink, yellow, blue and green) are considered extremely rare and very expensive.


History:
The first diamond engagement ring was reported in 1477, given to Mary of Burgundy by Archduke Maximilian of Austria.

• Diamond is the birthstone associated with April.
• Diamond is the 10th and 60th wedding anniversary gift.



Properties:
RI = 2.417
Hardness = 10
Specific Gravity = 3.52
Species – Diamond
Optic Character – SR
Phenomena – None

Care:
Mechanical cleanser, ammonia-based cleaners or mild solvents are also safe. In case when a stone has fractures or is fracture filled, avoid heat and chemicals. Vodka is a great diamond cleaner. If using warm soapy water, rinse well and pat dry to avoid residue.

Major Sources:
Botswana, Russian Federation, South Africa, Australia, Namibia, Sierra Leone, Zaire, Brazil, China