How to Identify a Raw Black Diamond?

When most people think of diamonds, they likely picture a sparkling, clear gemstone. But diamonds come in an array of colors – including black! While black diamonds may not be as famous as their colorless counterparts, they still appeal greatly due to their unique appearance and rarity. This article will examine how to recognize a raw black diamond and its characteristics.

What Are Black Diamonds?

Black diamonds, also called carbonado diamonds, are an opaque type of gemstone that appears black or dark grey. Unlike other diamond types which form deep within Earth’s mantle, black diamonds may have come from outer space; possibly from remnants of a supernova explosion billions of years ago.

How are black diamonds formed?

Most diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle, but black diamonds are believed to have originated from outer space.

Scientists still debate how black diamonds form. However, several theories exist that attempt to explain their formation.

One theory suggests black diamonds were formed due to an asteroid impact billions of years ago. This impact created high pressure and temperature conditions that caused carbon to crystallize into diamonds, as evidenced by the discovery of black diamonds in regions on Earth where large asteroid impacts have been documented.

Another theory suggests black diamonds formed within the Earth’s mantle but under unusual conditions. It is speculated that these gems formed during an intense period of volcanic activity when molten rock (magma) containing carbon-rich material was thrust onto the Earth’s surface. As this magma cooled rapidly, trapping carbon and causing it to crystallize into a diamond.

Black diamonds are renowned for their striking appearance and rarity, regardless of how they were formed. Unlike other diamond types that are typically transparent or translucent, black diamonds appear opaque and black or dark grey in color due to graphite and other impurities within their structure.

Black diamonds have long been prized for their distinctive appearance and rarity. As a result, they often appear in jewelry, particularly men’s wedding bands and other masculine designs; however, due to their rare origin and limited supply, black diamonds are more expensive than other types of diamonds.

Where are black diamonds found?

Black diamonds or carbonado diamonds can be found in several locations worldwide. Unfortunately, they are much rarer than other varieties of diamonds, and their exact distribution remains largely enigmatic.

Brazil is a significant source of black diamonds, particularly the state of Bahia. However, other South American nations such as Venezuela, Guyana, and Suriname also possess significant deposits of these gems.

Africa has discovered black diamonds in several countries, such as the Central African Republic, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These gemstones are usually found within alluvial deposits – sediment eroded and transported by water. In addition, these deposits can be found within riverbeds, floodplains, or terraces formed by rivers’ movement.

Recently, black diamonds have been discovered in Australia – particularly in the Western Australian Kimberley region. These diamonds are believed to have formed from ancient meteorite impacts.

Black diamonds can be found in several locations worldwide, though their exact distribution remains uncertain. That is partly because black diamonds are much rarer than other varieties of diamonds and are typically found in small deposits. As a result, black diamonds tend to be more expensive than other varieties when they’re of superior quality and large size.

Identification of a Raw Black Diamond

If you are trying to identify a raw black diamond, several key characteristics must be considered. Here are some of the most important ones:

Color: As the name implies, black diamonds should appear black or dark grey. However, it’s important to remember that some diamonds may appear black due to impurities or surface treatments. To verify if a stone truly is black, compare it with other black diamonds to see if the hue remains consistent.

Opaqueness: Black diamonds differ from other diamond types in that they are opaque. Light cannot pass through them, giving off the same sparkle or fire as other diamonds. When held up to a light source, a black diamond should appear solid and opaque with no light escaping.

Surface Texture: Black diamonds tend to have a rougher texture than other diamonds due to how they’re formed and not having undergone the same polishing and cutting processes as other gems. If you run your fingers over the surface of a black diamond, you may feel small bumps or ridges.

Shape: Black diamonds come in various shapes and sizes, similar to other diamonds. However, they tend to have irregular or asymmetrical shapes rather than the more typical round or square shapes seen with other types of diamonds.

Origin: While not a physical characteristic, the origin of a black diamond can provide valuable information about its quality and value. Diamonds mined from specific regions, such as Brazil or Central Africa, may be more highly valued than those mined elsewhere.

Types of Black Diamonds

Black diamonds come in an assortment of shapes, sizes, and qualities. Here are some common varieties:

Natural Black Diamonds: Natural black diamonds are those formed naturally beneath Earth’s surface and are the most widely recognized type of black diamond.

Treated Black Diamonds: Some black diamonds have been treated with heat or radiation to enhance their color or clarity. These diamonds may not be considered “natural” black diamonds and, therefore, less valuable than untreated gems.

Synthetic Black Diamonds: Synthetic black diamonds are created in a laboratory rather than occurring naturally. Therefore, they may look similar to natural black diamonds but are less valuable.

Salt-and-pepper black diamonds: These diamonds have a mottled, salt-and-pepper appearance due to white or grey inclusions. While not as valuable as high-quality black diamonds, they can still be stunningly beautiful and unique.

Fancy Black Diamonds: These diamonds are cut into fancy shapes like pear, marquise, or cushion. As a result, these diamonds may be more costly than round black diamonds due to the extra labor-intensive cutting required.

Rustic Black Diamonds: These diamonds have an unpolished, rough appearance. While less valuable than polished diamonds, rusted black diamonds can be striking and unique.

Overall, the type of black diamond you select will depend on personal preference, quality, and rarity. Working with a reliable jeweler or diamond dealer is critical in selecting an excellent diamond that meets your needs and budget.

Conclusion

Identifying a raw black diamond requires meticulous observation and close attention to detail. Factors like color, opaqueness, surface texture, shape, and origin can all be considered when determining whether a stone is genuine. If you’re interested in purchasing one of these gemstones, consult with an experienced dealer who can offer further guidance and information.