DIAMOND EDUCATION

WHAT IS A DIAMOND?

Diamonds are precious stones consisting of a clear and typically colorless crystalline form of pure carbon, They are the hardest naturally occurring substance and are extremely desirable in many cultures.

Most natural diamonds are formed at high-pressure high-temperature conditions existing at 140 to 190 kilometers deep in the Earth mantle. Carbon-containing minerals provide the carbon source, and the growth occurs over periods from 1 billion to 3.3 billion years. Diamonds are brought close to the Earth surface through deep volcanic eruptions by a magma, which cools into igneous rocks known as kimberlites and lamproites.

PARTS OF A DIAMOND

This diagram shows the different parts of a diamond. Most certificates will refer to the percentages and angles relating to these areas in the stone. A basic understanding of what and where they are is valuable to anyone searching for the perfect diamond. The two most concerning to shoppers are the table proportions and the culet of a diamond

TABLE
The "table" of a diamond refers to the flat surface on the top of the stone, and its size and shape can affect how much light is reflected back to the viewer. In general a well-proportioned table should allow for maximum light return and sparkle while also maintaining a balanced and visually appealing appearance. When shopping for a diamond, it's important to consider the table proportions along with other factors such as cut, clarity, and color in order to find a stone that meets your specific needs and preferences.

  1. Table percentage: This refers to the size of the table in relation to the overall size of the diamond. It is calculated by dividing the width of the table by the width of the diamond at its widest point (known as the girdle). The ideal table percentage varies depending on the shape of the diamond, but generally falls within the range of 53% to 63%.

  2. Table size: This refers to the actual width of the table in millimeters. Larger tables may make a diamond appear bigger, but they can also reduce its brilliance and fire.

  3. Table shape: This refers to the overall shape of the table, which can range from round to square to rectangular. Different table shapes can affect the diamond's appearance and value, depending on the overall cut and proportions of the stone.

CULET
The culet of a diamond is a small facet or facet-less point at the bottom of the diamond. It is the tiny point at the very bottom of the pavilion, which is the lower part of the diamond below the girdle. The culet is the last point of contact between the diamond and the surface on which it is resting. Generally speaking, culets should be closed but can be open in some stones in order to maximize carat weight.

DIAMOND SHAPES

Diamonds are cut in various shapes to fit everyone's taste and desires. A variety of center stone shapes are available for setting each with its own unique characteristic, style and feel. Click on the chart below to learn more about the different diamond shapes available for your center stone.

DIAMOND 4 C'S

The diamond 4C's is the universal grading system used to grade, rate and purchase your diamond. Click on the link to the right to learn more about diamond characteristics and the 4C's.

MAN MADE DIAMONDS

Lab created diamonds or diamond hybrids are produced synthetically in a high-pressure high-temperature process which approximately simulates the conditions in the Earth mantle. They are a great alternative for the buyer who wants the sparkle at a fraction of the cost. Although Nina Elle Jewels specializes in natural untreated earth mined diamonds we offer our customers the options to select diamond hybrids or lab created diamonds as a center stone alternative to any setting. All side stones on jewelry pieces however will remain 100% natural untreated diamonds.