DIAMOND
Diamonds are the most coveted gemstones for jewelry making, valued for their exquisite beauty and exceptional durability. These gems are composed of a single chemical element - carbon - which forms under immense pressure and temperature in the Earth's deepest layers.
Due to its unique chemical structure and formation process, the diamond is the hardest mineral on the planet, scoring a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. This means that it is highly resistant to scratches. Additionally, diamonds have impressive heat resistance: they can only melt at a temperature of 5,500 °C, making them impervious to most environmental conditions.
Diamonds are renowned for their remarkable optical properties, which are responsible for their dazzling brilliance. With a high dispersion index of 0.044 and a refractive index of 2.417-2.419, diamonds produce stunning bursts of light and shine. The gem's ability to bend and refract light is what creates its sparkle. When light enters the diamond, it bounces off the facets and is refracted by the table - the top surface of the diamond - before reaching our eyes.
The natural earth mined diamond industry is one that has been around for centuries, and has evolved significantly over time. Today, it is a multi-billion dollar industry that is responsible for providing millions of jobs around the world. However, the industry has also been the subject of much scrutiny, particularly with regards to human rights abuses, environmental degradation, and ethical sourcing issues.
Despite these challenges, the natural earth mined diamond industry remains strong, with demand for diamonds remaining high among consumers around the world. According to industry reports, global diamond jewelry sales reached $87.5 billion in 2019, with the US being the largest market for diamond jewelry.
One of the biggest trends in the industry in recent years has been the rise of lab-grown diamonds. These diamonds are created in a laboratory setting, using a process that simulates the natural conditions under which diamonds are formed. While lab-grown diamonds are still a small fraction of the overall diamond market, they are gaining in popularity, particularly among younger consumers who are more environmentally and socially conscious.
Another trend in the industry is the increasing focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental and social impact of the products they purchase, and are seeking out companies that prioritize sustainability and ethical business practices. This has led to a rise in demand for diamonds that are certified as conflict-free, and for companies that are transparent about their supply chain and sourcing practices.
Overall, the natural earth mined diamond industry is one that is constantly evolving and adapting to changing consumer preferences and industry trends. While there are certainly challenges to be faced, the industry is well-positioned to continue to thrive in the years to come. As long as companies remain committed to sustainability and ethical practices, and continue to innovate and adapt to changing consumer demands, the industry is poised for continued success.
