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Old Mine Cut

The Old Mine Cut is a historical diamond cut, first popularized in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is an early version of the modern cushion cut, characterized by its deep pavilion, high crown, small table, and large culet. These diamonds were hand-cut by artisans, making each one unique, with a softer, romantic appeal compared to today’s precision-cut stones.

Key Features of an Old Mine Cut Diamond
1. Cushion-Like Shape
The Old Mine Cut has a rounded-square or cushion-like outline, often with slightly asymmetrical edges due to hand-cutting techniques.
2. Deep Pavilion & High Crown
A deep pavilion (bottom part of the diamond) gives the stone a noticeable depth, which was designed to enhance light reflection in candlelight.
The high crown (upper portion of the diamond) contributes to its distinctive, antique look.
3. Small Table & Large Culet
The table (flat top facet) is relatively small, which contrasts with modern cuts that have larger tables to maximize brilliance.
The culet (bottom facet) is large and visible from the top, creating a soft reflection within the diamond instead of the sharp brilliance seen in modern cuts.
4. Fewer, Larger Facets
Typically features 58 facets, but they are larger and chunkier compared to modern brilliant-cut diamonds, producing a softer, less fiery sparkle.
5. Hand-Faceted & Slightly Asymmetrical
Old Mine Cuts were hand-faceted without modern precision technology, often leading to slight variations in shape and symmetry.
History of the Old Mine Cut
Originated in the late 17th to early 18th century and became the dominant diamond cut of the Georgian and Victorian eras.
Named “Old Mine Cut” because many of these diamonds came from old mines in Brazil and India, before major diamond discoveries in Africa.
With the invention of more advanced cutting tools, the Old European Cut (a rounder, more symmetrical version) evolved from the Old Mine Cut in the late 19th century.
How Old Mine Cut Diamonds Compare to Modern Cuts
Feature Old Mine Cut Modern Cushion Cut Round Brilliant Cut
Shape Cushion-like, slightly irregular Cushion-like, precise symmetry Perfectly round
Facets Large, chunky facets Smaller, precision-cut facets Tiny, uniform facets
Table Small Medium Large
Culet Large, visible Small or non-existent Very small or none
Brilliance Soft glow, optimized for candlelight Bright and fiery brilliance Maximum brilliance
Cutting Method Hand-faceted Machine-faceted Machine-faceted
Why Choose an Old Mine Cut Diamond?
1. Vintage & Unique Charm
Ideal for antique-style engagement rings or heirloom jewelry.
No two Old Mine Cut diamonds are exactly alike, adding to their individuality.
2. Warmer, Romantic Glow
Their soft sparkle creates a more romantic, vintage feel, different from the sharp brilliance of modern cuts.
3. Ethical & Sustainable Choice
Since many Old Mine Cut diamonds are reclaimed or antique stones, they offer a more environmentally friendly and ethical alternative to newly mined diamonds.
4. Great for Those Who Love History
Owning an Old Mine Cut diamond means having a piece of history from the Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian era.

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Oval Cut

Oval shaped diamond

Features of an Oval Cut Diamond
1. Elongated Shape
The oval cut is an elongated shape that can range from a perfect oval to a more elongated ellipse depending on the ratio of length to width.
Proportions can vary, but a ratio of approximately 1.33 to 1.66 (length-to-width) is typically considered ideal for maintaining a graceful appearance.
2. Brilliant Cut Facets
Like the round brilliant cut, the oval cut diamond features 58 facets arranged in a brilliant cut style.
These facets are designed to maximize light reflection and create a stunning, fiery sparkle. The brilliance is typically comparable to that of round diamonds, though the oval shape tends to have a slightly softer light return due to the shape’s rounded edges.
3. Soft, Rounded Edges
Oval diamonds are characterized by their soft, rounded edges, making them less prone to visible chipping compared to shapes with sharp corners, such as the emerald cut or princess cut.
4. Larger Surface Area
The oval cut tends to appear larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight due to its elongated shape, offering more visual size, which is often appealing to those who prefer a larger stone without sacrificing carat weight.
5. Symmetry and Bowtie Effect
An important feature to check in an oval diamond is its symmetry. The diamond should have a balanced outline without any noticeable bulges or flat areas.
Many oval diamonds can exhibit a bowtie effect, where the center of the diamond appears darker, resembling the shape of a bowtie. While not a flaw, a noticeable bowtie can sometimes be distracting, so it’s important to select a stone with minimal or no bowtie effect.
Why Choose an Oval Cut Diamond?
1. Timeless Elegance with a Modern Twist
The oval cut has become increasingly popular due to its elegant, vintage charm, combined with a modern appearance. It offers the classic appeal of a round diamond but with a more distinctive and elongated look that feels fresh and different.
2. Appears Larger Than Other Shapes
Due to its elongated shape, an oval diamond can look larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight, offering more presence without the need to increase carat weight. This is especially appealing for those who want the look of a larger diamond at a more affordable price.
3. Versatility in Setting Styles
Oval cut diamonds pair well with various types of settings, including solitaire, halo, three-stone, and pavé bands. Their elongated shape can also flatter longer fingers, making them a popular choice for engagement rings.
The oval shape works well in both modern, minimalist settings and vintage-inspired designs, making it a versatile choice for any style preference.
4. Less Prone to Chipping
Since oval diamonds have no sharp corners like princess or emerald cuts, they are less susceptible to chipping or damage, making them a durable and practical choice for everyday wear, especially for engagement rings.
How to Choose the Perfect Oval Cut Diamond
1. Pay Attention to Proportions
Proportions are key when selecting an oval cut diamond. Look for a diamond with balanced length-to-width ratios (1.33 to 1.66) for a more elegant and symmetrical appearance.
Symmetry is also important to ensure the diamond’s facets align perfectly and create the desired visual appeal.
2. Check for the Bowtie Effect
The bowtie effect is a common characteristic of oval diamonds, but you may want to choose one with a minimal bowtie for better visual appeal. A pronounced bowtie can detract from the overall brilliance of the diamond.
3. Focus on the Cut Quality
The cut quality of an oval diamond significantly impacts its brilliance and sparkle. Ensure that the diamond has been cut to the highest standards, with well-executed facets that maximize light return. A well-cut oval will give the diamond brilliant sparkle similar to a round brilliant.
4. Opt for a Quality Certification
Choose a diamond with a certification from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as GIA, DCLA, or AGS. Certification ensures the diamond’s quality and gives you a detailed report on its cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.
Oval Cut vs. Other Diamond Shapes
Shape Unique Feature Brilliance Popular Setting Style
Oval Cut Elongated shape, large surface area Similar to round brilliance Solitaire, Halo, Three-Stone
Round Brilliant Perfectly symmetrical, circular Maximum brilliance Solitaire, Pavé, Halo
Cushion Cut Rounded corners, soft sparkle Moderate brilliance Halo, Vintage-Inspired, Solitaires
Princess Cut Square shape with sharp corners High brilliance, sharp sparkle Modern Solitaire, Three-Stone
Emerald Cut Step-cut with large, flat facets Subtle sparkle, elegant shine Solitaire, Vintage-Inspired

The Oval Cut diamond is a stunning choice for those who seek an elegant, elongated shape with exceptional brilliance. Combining the fire and brilliance of the round brilliant cut with a unique and flattering shape, it is a versatile option for various jewelry settings. The larger surface area and soft edges offer a distinctive look while being less prone to chipping. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist design or a vintage-inspired setting, the oval cut is a timeless option that is sure to stand out.

 

 

 

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Nick

chip

A nick is a small surface blemish found on a diamond, typically appearing as a tiny break or indentation along the girdle or facet junctions. It is too small to be classified as a chip, but it can still impact the diamond’s polish grade and overall appearance. Nicks often occur due to accidental impact, improper handling, or wear over time.

Characteristics of a Nick
Size: Small, shallow indentation (smaller than a chip)
Location: Most commonly found on the girdle, but can also occur on facet edges
Appearance: Can look like a tiny white mark, scratch, or indentation under magnification
Cause: Often results from mechanical wear, accidental bumps, or improper handling during cutting, setting, or daily wear
Impact of a Nick on a Diamond’s Quality
1. Polish Grade
A nick affects the polish grade of a diamond, as it disrupts the smoothness of the surface.
If minor, it may not significantly lower the diamond’s overall grade, but if noticeable, it can result in a lower polish rating on a grading report from DCLA, GIA, or AGS.
2. Visibility & Aesthetic Impact
Small nicks on the girdle: Often invisible to the naked eye and do not affect brilliance.
Larger nicks on facet edges: Can slightly affect light performance, especially if they disrupt the diamond’s symmetry.
3. Durability & Wear Resistance
A single, shallow nick usually does not impact a diamond’s structural integrity.
However, multiple or deep nicks along the girdle may make the diamond more susceptible to chipping over time, especially if the girdle is very thin.
Nick vs. Other Diamond Blemishes
Blemish Type Description Impact on Diamond
Nick Small, shallow indentation on the girdle or facet edge Minor, affects polish but not durability
Chip Larger, more visible break in the diamond, often near the girdle or culet Can weaken durability and lower value
Scratch A fine line on the diamond’s surface Affects polish but can often be removed
Abrasion Small, worn-down facet edges from prolonged wear Reduces brilliance and can make the diamond look dull
Can a Nick Be Repaired?
Polishing/Recutting: A minor nick can sometimes be polished out by a professional jeweler. However, this may slightly reduce the diamond’s carat weight.
Re-setting: If the nick is on the girdle and affects durability, the diamond can be set in a way that protects the weak spot (e.g., a bezel setting).

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Octahedron

Rough diamond Octahedron

An octahedron is one of the most sought-after crystal shapes for rough diamonds, featuring eight triangular faces arranged symmetrically. This shape resembles two four-sided pyramids joined at their base, forming a perfect geometric structure. Due to its natural symmetry and efficient cutting potential, octahedral rough diamonds are highly desirable for diamond cutting and manufacturing.

Characteristics of an Octahedral Diamond
Crystal Structure: Composed of eight equilateral triangular faces
Formation: Forms naturally under high pressure and heat within the Earth’s mantle
Symmetry: Well-balanced, making it one of the most efficiently cuttable rough diamond shapes
Occurrence: One of the most common and valuable rough diamond shapes found in nature
Why Octahedral Rough Diamonds Are Coveted
1. Ideal for Cutting Round Brilliant Diamonds
The octahedral shape is perfectly suited for cutting two round brilliant diamonds from a single rough stone, maximizing yield and minimizing waste.
Diamond cutters often cleave or saw the rough along its natural planes to create two symmetrical, high-quality diamonds.
2. Natural Growth of Diamonds
The octahedron reflects the cubic crystal system of diamonds, where atoms arrange themselves in the most stable geometric form.
Over millions to billions of years, carbon atoms bond in this shape under extreme pressure deep within the Earth.
3. High Clarity Potential
Since octahedral diamonds grow in a stable environment, they often develop with fewer inclusions compared to irregularly shaped rough stones.
Their internal structure is generally strong, reducing the risk of fractures during the cutting process.
Octahedral Diamonds in Cutting & Polishing
How Cutters Assess an Octahedral Rough Diamond:
Orientation: Experts determine the best way to cut the rough to achieve the highest carat yield.
Inclusion Mapping: If internal flaws are present, cutters adjust the cutting plan to eliminate or minimize them.
Cleaving/Sawing: The rough is often split along its natural grain to form two high-quality gemstones.
Common Diamond Cuts from an Octahedron:
Cut Style Why It’s Chosen for Octahedral Rough
Round Brilliant Uses the natural symmetry of the octahedron to produce two symmetrical stones
Princess Cut Retains a high percentage of the original rough weight
Cushion Cut Maximizes brilliance while preserving rough material
Octahedron vs. Other Rough Diamond Shapes
Rough Diamond Shape Description Cutting Potential
Octahedron Eight triangular faces, symmetrical High yield, excellent for round brilliants
Dodecahedron Twelve pentagonal faces, irregular More cutting challenges, lower yield
Macles (Twinned Crystals) Flattened, triangular shape due to twinning Often used for fancy cuts, less efficient for rounds
Cubo-octahedron Mix of cube and octahedron faces Good for step cuts like emerald or Asscher


The octahedron is the most desirable natural shape for rough diamonds due to its symmetry, high clarity potential, and efficient cutting yield. This structure allows diamond cutters to maximize the rough’s potential, often yielding two high-quality round brilliant diamonds from a single octahedral crystal. Its formation represents the natural stability of diamond growth, making it a prized find in the world of gemology.

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Off-Make

Trade term for a diamond that has been badly polished or finished.

The term “off-make” is a trade term used to describe a diamond that has been poorly cut, polished, or finished, resulting in flaws in its overall make. This means the diamond does not meet ideal proportions, symmetry, or polish standards, leading to reduced brilliance, fire, and overall aesthetic appeal.

Characteristics of an Off-Make Diamond
A diamond is considered off-make when it exhibits one or more of the following defects:

1. Poor Proportions
Too deep or too shallow – Affects light reflection and reduces brilliance.
Mismatched angles – Poor crown and pavilion angles lead to light leakage.
Uneven girdle thickness – Some areas may be too thick (wasting carat weight) or too thin (making the diamond vulnerable to chipping).
2. Weak Symmetry
Misaligned facets – When facets are uneven or not placed correctly, the diamond lacks balance.
Table and culet off-center – Affects the diamond’s optical performance and sparkle.
3. Low-Quality Polish
Visible polish lines or marks – Can create a dull appearance.
Rough or grainy surface texture – Reduces light reflection and brilliance.
4. Light Performance Issues
Nailhead effect – The center appears dark due to excessive depth.
Fish-eye effect – A distorted reflection of the girdle inside the table, caused by a shallow pavilion.
Windowing – When light passes straight through the diamond rather than reflecting back, making it appear see-through.
How Off-Make Affects a Diamond’s Value
1. Lower Market Demand
Off-make diamonds are considered less desirable by both jewelers and consumers because they lack brilliance and symmetry.

2. Reduced Sparkle & Fire
A well-cut diamond maximizes brilliance (white light reflection) and fire (color dispersion).
Off-make diamonds often appear lifeless, dull, or dark, even with good clarity and color.
3. Lower Resale & Appraisal Value
Since cut is the most important factor in a diamond’s beauty, a poorly made diamond will be valued lower than a well-cut stone of the same carat weight, clarity, and color.
4. Potential for Weight Retention Over Beauty
Some off-make diamonds are intentionally cut poorly to retain more carat weight from the rough, sacrificing quality for size.
How to Avoid Buying an Off-Make Diamond
1. Check the Cut Grade
Buy diamonds certified by DCLA, GIA, or AGS, which provide cut grades ranging from Excellent to Poor. Avoid stones with Fair or Poor cut grades.
2. Inspect Light Performance
Look at the diamond under different lighting conditions to check for dark areas, weak reflections, or excessive transparency.
3. Look for Proportion Guidelines
Ideal Table Size: 53-58% of the total width
Ideal Depth Percentage: 58-63%
Crown and Pavilion Angles: Well-balanced for optimal light return
4. Use a Loupe or Microscope
Check for symmetry, facet alignment, and polish marks.
5. Ask for an ASET or Ideal Scope Image
These tools reveal light leakage, helping determine if the diamond is well-cut.

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Natural Diamond

A natural diamond is a gemstone composed of crystallized carbon

A natural diamond is a gemstone composed of crystallized carbon that was formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under extreme heat and pressure over 1 to 3 billion years ago. Unlike lab-grown diamonds, which are created in controlled environments, natural diamonds are mined from the Earth and are considered one of the rarest and most valuable gemstones.

Formation of Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds form 100–200 km (62–124 miles) below the Earth’s surface, where intense pressure (725,000+ psi) and high temperatures (1,100–1,400°C) cause carbon atoms to bond in a unique cubic crystal structure. These diamonds are then transported to the surface through volcanic eruptions, specifically via kimberlite pipes—ancient volcanic conduits that carry rough diamonds upward.

Characteristics of Natural Diamonds
Composition:
Made of pure carbon arranged in a tetrahedral lattice, giving diamonds their exceptional hardness.
Hardness (Mohs Scale 10):
The hardest known natural material, making it highly resistant to scratches and wear.
Brilliance & Fire:
Due to its high refractive index (2.42), a well-cut diamond reflects and disperses light, creating its signature sparkle.
Unique Inclusions & Imperfections:
Most natural diamonds contain inclusions (internal characteristics) and blemishes (surface characteristics) that serve as fingerprints of their natural origin.
Rarity & Value:
Large, flawless natural diamonds are exceptionally rare, making them highly valuable compared to lab-grown alternatives.
Types of Natural Diamonds
1. White (Colorless) Diamonds
The most sought-after diamonds, graded on a color scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
The less color, the higher the value.
2. Fancy Color Diamonds
Natural diamonds can exhibit blue, pink, yellow, green, orange, and even red hues due to trace elements or structural irregularities.
Examples:
Blue diamonds (trace boron) – Example: The Hope Diamond
Pink diamonds (structural distortions) – Example: Argyle Pink Diamonds
Yellow diamonds (trace nitrogen) – Example: Tiffany Yellow Diamond
3. Industrial Diamonds
Low-quality natural diamonds used in cutting, drilling, grinding, and polishing tools due to their extreme hardness.
How Natural Diamonds Are Mined
Natural diamonds are extracted from the Earth using various mining techniques:

Kimberlite Pipe Mining (Primary Source)

Diamonds are found in kimberlite pipes, ancient volcanic conduits rich in diamond-bearing rock.
Mined using open-pit or underground methods.
Alluvial Mining (Secondary Source)

Diamonds eroded from kimberlite pipes are transported by rivers and accumulate in riverbeds or coastal areas.
Marine Mining

Specialized ships mine diamonds from the ocean floor, particularly off the coast of Namibia and South Africa.
How Natural Diamonds Are Identified
To distinguish a natural diamond from a lab-grown or synthetic diamond, experts use advanced testing and certification from recognized gemological labs like DCLA, GIA, and AGS.

Key Identification Methods:
Inclusions & Growth Patterns: Natural diamonds contain unique inclusions, such as tiny crystals, feathers, or graining patterns, absent in lab-grown diamonds.
Fluorescence & Phosphorescence: Some natural diamonds exhibit fluorescence under UV light, while lab-grown diamonds may show different reactions.
Spectroscopy & Advanced Testing: High-tech tools like FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) and UV-Vis spectrometry help differentiate natural diamonds from synthetic or treated ones.
Natural Diamonds vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds
Feature Natural Diamond Lab-Grown Diamond
Formation Formed over billions of years in Earth’s mantle Created in weeks using HPHT or CVD methods
Origin Mined from the Earth Manufactured in a lab
Inclusions Natural growth patterns and inclusions Different internal characteristics, sometimes with metallic inclusions (HPHT)
Rarity Extremely rare, especially high-quality stones Mass-produced
Price Higher due to rarity Generally 50–70% cheaper
Resale Value Strong resale and investment value Limited resale market
Ethical Concerns Some concerns over ethical sourcing (unless from certified conflict-free sources) Considered conflict-free and more sustainable
Ethical & Sustainable Sourcing of Natural Diamonds
Concerns over “blood diamonds” (conflict diamonds) led to the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), which ensures that natural diamonds are ethically sourced and do not fund conflicts.

Reputable diamond companies, including DCLA-certified brands, focus on:

Conflict-free mining practices
Fair labor policies
Sustainable environmental impact reduction
Why Choose a Natural Diamond?
Timeless Value: Unlike lab-grown diamonds, natural diamonds retain strong resale and investment value.
Unique & One-of-a-Kind: Each natural diamond has its own history, inclusions, and growth patterns, making it a unique creation of nature.
Symbolism & Tradition: Used in engagement rings, heirlooms, and high jewelry, natural diamonds carry deep emotional and historical significance.

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Needle

Needle Inclusion in Diamonds

A needle inclusion is a type of internal characteristic found in natural diamonds. It appears as a long, thin, needle-like crystal trapped inside the diamond during its formation. These inclusions are often transparent or white, but they can also appear in shades of black, brown, or other colors, depending on the type of mineral present.

How Needle Inclusions Form
Natural diamonds form over billions of years deep within the Earth’s mantle under extreme pressure and heat. During this process, various mineral deposits, gases, or even other diamond crystals can become trapped inside the growing diamond. When these inclusions form in an elongated shape, they are classified as needle inclusions.

Composition: Needle inclusions can be made of other minerals (such as garnet, olivine, or pyroxene) or even diamond itself.
Growth Influence: The presence of a needle inclusion can sometimes indicate the diamond’s growth pattern and conditions within the Earth.
Appearance of Needle Inclusions
Shape: Thin, elongated, needle-like structure
Color: Usually transparent or white, but can also be black, brown, or yellow depending on the trapped material
Size: Ranges from microscopic (only visible under magnification) to larger inclusions that may affect transparency
Position: Found anywhere in the diamond, including near the surface, within the pavilion, or in the crown
Impact of Needle Inclusions on Diamond Quality
1. Clarity Grade
Needle inclusions affect a diamond’s clarity grade, which is assessed by laboratories like DCLA, GIA, and AGS.

If the needle is small and not visible to the naked eye, it may have minimal impact on the clarity grade.
If the needle is large, numerous, or positioned in a way that affects transparency, it may lower the diamond’s clarity rating significantly.
2. Visibility in Jewelry
Small needles in the pavilion (bottom of the diamond): Often not noticeable and have little impact on beauty.
Larger needles near the table (top flat facet): May be more visible and slightly reduce brilliance.
Clusters of needle inclusions: When multiple needles form in the same area, they can create a hazy or cloudy effect, reducing the diamond’s overall brightness.
3. Structural Integrity
Unlike surface-reaching inclusions (such as feathers or cavities), needle inclusions do not typically weaken a diamond’s durability.
However, if located near the girdle or in a region of high stress, a large needle inclusion might slightly affect the diamond’s strength.
How to Identify Needle Inclusions
1. Under Magnification
Needles are difficult to spot with the naked eye but can be seen under a 10x jeweler’s loupe or a microscope. They often appear as thin, hair-like lines inside the diamond.

2. Diamond Grading Reports
Professional reports from DCLA, GIA, or AGS will note needle inclusions under clarity characteristics.
Needles are often indicated on a diamond’s plot diagram, showing their location and size.
3. Using Fluorescence & Light Scattering
Some needles become more visible under UV light.
Strong lighting may make them appear as tiny bright or dark streaks inside the diamond.
Needle Inclusions vs. Other Inclusions
Inclusion Type Description Impact on Clarity
Needle Thin, elongated crystal trapped inside the diamond Minimal unless large or clustered
Pinpoint Tiny, dot-like crystal Very minor effect
Cloud Group of tiny pinpoints, creating a hazy look Can lower brilliance if dense
Feather Small crack or fracture May impact durability
Crystal Distinct mineral inclusion, often shaped like a small crystal Can be noticeable if dark
Are Needle Inclusions a Dealbreaker?
Not necessarily.

If small and not visible to the naked eye, needle inclusions have little impact on beauty or value.
If multiple needles cluster together, they might create a cloudy effect, reducing transparency and brilliance.
Always review a diamond’s clarity in person or with a magnification tool to determine if the needle inclusion affects its overall appearance.

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Natural

A natural refers to a portion of the original rough diamond’s outer surface that remains unpolished on a finished, faceted diamond. This feature is intentionally left on the stone during the cutting and polishing process and is typically found along the girdle—the outer edge of the diamond that separates the crown (top) from the pavilion (bottom).

Why Are Naturals Left on a Diamond?
Maximizing Carat Weight

Diamond cutters aim to retain as much of the rough stone as possible. Removing all natural surfaces may require excessive cutting, reducing the final carat weight of the polished diamond.
Preserving Crystal Integrity

Some rough diamonds have growth lines or inclusions that, if cut away, could weaken the stone or impact its durability. Leaving a natural in a strategic area helps maintain the diamond’s overall strength.
Minimizing Waste

Since natural diamonds are rare and valuable, preserving part of the rough minimizes unnecessary loss of material during cutting.
Proof of Natural Origin

In some cases, gemologists and collectors appreciate naturals as evidence that the diamond was cut from a genuine rough stone rather than being lab-grown or heavily altered.
Impact on a Diamond’s Appearance and Quality
Polish Grade:

Naturals are considered minor surface features and are factored into the polish grade of a diamond. A diamond with significant naturals may receive a lower polish grade from gemological laboratories like DCLA, GIA, or AGS.
Location Matters:

If confined to the girdle area, naturals do not significantly affect the diamond’s overall appearance, brilliance, or value.
If present on the crown or table (top facets), they may be more visible and could impact the diamond’s aesthetic appeal.
Girdle Thickness Considerations:

Some naturals can contribute to an uneven girdle thickness, which might affect durability. A very thin girdle with a natural could increase the risk of chipping.
How to Identify a Natural in a Diamond?
Visible under Magnification
Naturals are typically small, textured, and may appear frosty or grainy under a jeweler’s loupe (10x magnification) or a microscope.
GIA & DCLA Reports
If a diamond has a natural, it is often noted in the grading report, usually under the clarity characteristics or polish comments section.
Naturals vs. Other Surface Features
Natural vs. Extra Facet:
A natural is an original rough diamond surface left untouched, while an extra facet is a man-made additional cut that is not part of the standard faceting pattern.
Natural vs. Cavity:
A natural is a minor surface remnant, whereas a cavity is an indentation or deeper surface flaw that can affect durability.
Are Naturals a Flaw?
Not necessarily. If located on the girdle, naturals are generally not a concern for beauty or durability. They do not impact the diamond’s brilliance or fire, and they are considered an acceptable feature in diamond cutting, especially for maximizing weight retention.

However, if a natural extends beyond the girdle onto visible facets, it could slightly affect the stone’s appearance and might be more noticeable.

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Milky Diamond

A milky diamond refers to a gemstone that exhibits a cloudy or hazy appearance

A milky diamond refers to a gemstone that exhibits a cloudy or hazy appearance, which results in reduced transparency, brilliance, and overall life of the stone. This milky effect can significantly affect the diamond’s visual appeal, as it diminishes the stone’s ability to reflect light and sparkle. The term “milky” is used to describe diamonds that appear opaque or have a frosted, white haze that can obscure the clarity and sparkle of the diamond.

There are several factors that can contribute to a diamond being described as milky:

Cloudy Inclusions: The most common cause of a milky appearance is the presence of dense, white, or opaque inclusions inside the diamond, known as “clouds.” These inclusions scatter light within the stone, making it appear hazy and reducing its brilliance. Clouds are generally made up of tiny crystals of minerals or gas bubbles trapped inside the diamond during its formation. While small clouds may have little effect on the diamond’s appearance, dense or large clouds can result in a noticeable milky effect.

Strong Fluorescence: Another factor that can cause a diamond to appear milky is intense fluorescence. Fluorescence refers to the emission of a visible light when the diamond is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Diamonds that exhibit strong fluorescence, particularly blue fluorescence, may appear milky or hazy under certain lighting conditions, especially in daylight or under UV light. In some cases, strong fluorescence can create a visible bluish cloudiness in the diamond’s appearance, leading to a milky look.

Grading of Transparency: The DCLA (Diamond Certification Laboratory of Australia) uses a specific grading system to evaluate diamonds based on factors such as clarity, cut, colour, and transparency. When it comes to transparency, the DCLA assesses the diamond’s ability to transmit light and its overall visual quality. A milky diamond will generally receive a lower transparency grade due to the diminished light return caused by internal inclusions, fluorescence, or other optical issues. A diamond with a reduced transparency grade will appear less vibrant and lifeless compared to a perfectly clear stone.

Other Factors: In addition to inclusions and fluorescence, the clarity and overall quality of the diamond’s cut can also influence the diamond’s transparency. A poorly cut diamond, or one with irregularities in the facets, can exacerbate the milky effect by causing light to be scattered in a way that reduces its brilliance.

Impact on Value:
Milky diamonds tend to have a lower value compared to clear diamonds because their reduced transparency results in a diminished visual appeal. The milky effect makes them less desirable for high-end jewelry, where brilliance and clarity are highly valued. However, depending on the severity of the milky appearance, some buyers may still find these diamonds attractive for specific designs or purposes, such as lower-cost pieces or designs that mask the effect with intricate settings.

DCLA Transparency Grade:
When diamonds are certified by the DCLA, one of the factors considered is the diamond’s transparency. The transparency grade of a diamond can be influenced by a variety of internal and external factors. A milky diamond, due to its hazy or cloudy appearance, would likely receive a lower transparency grade, indicating that it does not possess the ideal light return and brilliance expected from a high-quality diamond. The DCLA’s grading system provides an objective way to assess these characteristics, allowing buyers and sellers to make informed decisions about the diamond’s quality and value.

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Mohs Scale

The Mohs Scale of Hardness is a qualitative scale that ranks minerals based on their ability to resist scratching

The Mohs Scale of Hardness is a qualitative scale that ranks minerals based on their ability to resist scratching. Developed by German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs in 1812, the scale is widely used in geology, gemology, and material science to compare the hardness of different minerals and gemstones. It ranges from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest), with each mineral capable of scratching those ranked below it while being scratched by those ranked above it.

Mohs Scale of Hardness – Ranking of Minerals
Mohs Hardness Mineral Common Comparison
1 Talc Very soft; can be scratched by a fingernail; found in talcum powder.
2 Gypsum Soft; can be scratched by a fingernail; used in plaster and drywall.
3 Calcite Can be scratched by a copper coin; found in limestone and chalk.
4 Fluorite Can be scratched by a knife blade; used in fluorine production.
5 Apatite Can be scratched by a steel nail; found in teeth and bones.
6 Orthoclase Feldspar Harder than glass; a common mineral in granite.
7 Quartz Can scratch glass and steel; commonly found in sand and gemstones like amethyst and citrine.
8 Topaz A durable gemstone; harder than quartz and feldspar.
9 Corundum Includes sapphires and rubies; extremely hard, only scratched by diamond.
10 Diamond The hardest naturally occurring substance; used in cutting tools and jewelry.
Understanding the Mohs Scale
The Mohs scale is ordinal, meaning the difference in hardness between minerals is not proportional. For example, diamond (10) is about four times harder than corundum (9), even though the scale suggests a difference of only one unit.
Some synthetic materials and alloys can exceed the hardness of natural minerals. For example, tungsten carbide and cubic boron nitride have hardness levels approaching that of diamond.
While hardness measures scratch resistance, it does not indicate a mineral’s toughness or resistance to breaking. Diamond, while the hardest mineral, is brittle and can be shattered by a sharp blow.
Mohs Scale and Gemology
In gemology, the Mohs scale helps determine the durability of gemstones for everyday wear. Harder stones (e.g., diamond, sapphire, ruby) are ideal for engagement rings and jewelry exposed to frequent wear, while softer stones (e.g., opal, pearl, turquoise) require extra care to avoid scratches.