Diamonds are well-known as the world’s hardest stone. Diamonds may be used for a variety of functions, but is most often used in jewelry. Their beauty and sparkle make them a popular choice for wedding rings and fine jewelry. Here are a few facts about diamonds.

Where Do Diamonds Come From?

Diamonds can be found all over the world, but are most commonly found in China, Brazil, Australia, Russia, South Africa, the United States, Botswana and India. They are typically found near the surface of the earth.

It takes millions or even billions of years for a natural diamond to form. It takes an immense amount of heat and pressure to form diamonds. The process begins deep below the earth’s surface. However, after they are formed, natural events begin to push them towards the earth’s surface.

After they are mined, they are then cut, polished, rated for quality and placed into jewelry settings to be sold.

How to Rate Diamond Quality

Diamonds are rated based on a variety of properties. The better the rating, the more expensive the diamonds. Here are 4 properties that impact the rating for diamond quality.

Color

Diamonds may be colorless, light yellow, or brown. Colorless diamonds typically receive the highest and best ratings.

Clarity

Diamonds often have tiny irregularities or imperfections. Some of these may be seen with the naked eye. Others are only revealed under closer inspection with magnification. These irregularities may appear on the surface or interior of the diamonds. Even tiny imperfections impact the clarity rating of each of the diamonds.

Cut

Many diamonds may be cut and fashioned into different shapes. While a circle is most common, diamonds may also have a square, teardrop or oval cut. These different cuts impact the brightness and look of each of the diamonds.

Carat Weight

Carats refer to the weight of the diamonds. The higher the carat, the larger the diamond. Carats greatly impact the value and rating of the diamond. Larger diamonds with more carats are worth significantly more money.