Types of Diamonds

Diamonds, often referred to as a girl's best friend, are much more than just sparkling gemstones. They are a testament to nature's ability to create beauty under pressure. This guide will delve deep into the various types of diamonds, their characteristics, and what sets each type apart whether you're shopping for a new engagement ring or a more eco-friendly option like a used diamond ring.

Table of Contents

• Types of Diamonds by Origin
• Types of Diamonds by Color
• Types of Diamonds by Shape
• Fancy Color Diamonds
• Diamond Treatments and Enhancements
• Understanding the 4 c's 
• Conclusion

What are The 4 Different Kinds of Diamond Types?

The four main types of diamonds are:

1. Natural Diamonds

These are diamonds that have formed deep within the Earth's mantle over billions of years due to high pressure and temperature.

2. Synthetic or Lab-Created Diamonds

These diamonds are grown in laboratories over weeks or months using advanced technological processes. They possess the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds.

3. Treated Diamonds

Natural diamonds that have undergone specific treatments to enhance or modify their appearance, such as laser drilling to remove inclusions or high-temperature annealing to improve color.

4. Fancy Color Diamonds

These are natural diamonds that exhibit intense colors, such as blue, green, yellow, pink, and red, due to specific trace elements or structural anomalies in their composition.

While the first two types differentiate diamonds based on their origin (natural vs lab grown), the latter two types focus on specific characteristics or treatments of the diamonds.

Types of Diamonds by Origin

Natural Diamonds: Formed deep within the Earth's mantle over billions of years.

Synthetic or Lab-Grown Diamonds: Grown in labs over weeks or months but have the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds.

Good Read: Tips When Buying Diamonds Online

Types of Diamonds by Color

Colorless Diamonds (D-F)

These diamonds are pristine and pure, exhibiting a transparency that is completely devoid of any color, making them some of the most sought-after gems in the market.

Near Colorless Diamonds (G-J)

These diamonds possess only the faintest hints of color, which are so subtle that they are challenging to discern unless they are placed adjacent to diamonds of superior color grades for a direct comparison.

Faint Color Diamonds (K-M)

Diamonds in this category exhibit a delicate hue, which, while not immediately prominent, can be discerned upon closer inspection, especially when viewed under specific lighting conditions.

Very Light Color Diamonds (N-R)

These diamonds display a more evident shade, which is readily identifiable even to the untrained eye, making them distinct from their colorless and near-colorless counterparts.

Light Color Diamonds (S-Z)

Diamonds within this range possess a pronounced color depth, making the hue quite noticeable and distinguishable, especially when compared to diamonds of higher color grades.

Types of Diamonds by Shape

Round

The round diamond, with its timeless and classic design, stands as the most popular and brilliant shape. Its 58 facets are precision-cut to maximize light reflection, making it the most luminous of all diamond shapes.

Princess

The princess cut is a modern favorite, characterized by its square or rectangular silhouette and sharply pointed corners. Its unique faceting pattern gives it a contemporary and vibrant sparkle.

Oval

With its elongated and symmetrical design, the oval diamond offers a larger surface area, making it appear more substantial than round diamonds of the same carat weight. Its stretched shape also has the added benefit of elongating the wearer's finger.

Marquise

The marquise diamond, reminiscent of a boat's hull, boasts a long and narrow shape with pointed ends. Its design origins trace back to the French royal court, giving it a touch of historical elegance.

Pear

A harmonious blend of the round and marquise shapes, the pear-shaped diamond is teardrop-like in appearance. Its unique shape offers both the curves of a round diamond and the pointed end of a marquise.

Cushion

The cushion cut diamond, often referred to as the "pillow cut," features a square or rectangular shape with soft, rounded corners. Its larger facets enhance its brilliance and highlight the diamond's clarity.

Emerald

The emerald cut diamond is distinguished by its rectangular shape with truncated corners. Its broad, flat planes and stepped facets create a "hall of mirrors" effect, emphasizing the stone's depth and clarity.

Asscher

A variation of the emerald cut, the Asscher cut diamond is square with deeply trimmed corners. Its unique X-shaped pattern, visible through the table, gives it a distinctive vintage appeal.

Radiant

The radiant cut diamond combines the elegance of the emerald shape with the brilliance of the round cut. Its square or rectangular profile is accentuated by trimmed corners, and its numerous facets ensure a dazzling display of light.

Heart

Symbolic of love and affection, the heart-shaped diamond is the embodiment of romance. Its unique and unmistakable shape makes it a favorite for sentimental gifts and romantic gestures.

Fancy Color Diamonds

Apart from the usual color scale, diamonds can come in distinct colors:

Yellow Diamonds: Ranging from light to vivid canary yellow.

Blue Diamonds: The Hope Diamond and the Blue Moon Diamond are famous examples.

Red and Pink Diamonds: Extremely rare and highly sought after.

Green Diamonds: Their color is due to natural radiation.

Black Diamonds: Opaque diamonds with a unique luster.

Diamond Treatments and Enhancements

Laser Drilling: To remove small dark inclusions.

High-Temperature Annealing: To improve or change color.

Fracture Filling: To fill surface-breaking cracks.

Understanding the Four Cs

Before diving into types, it's essential to understand the Four Cs that determine a diamond's quality:

• Carat: The weight of the diamond. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams.
• Cut: Refers to how well the diamond has been shaped and faceted. The quality of the cut affects the diamond's brilliance.
• Color: Diamonds range from colorless to yellow or brown. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond color on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
• Clarity: Measures the number, size, and position of internal and external imperfections.

Finishing Touches

Diamonds are as diverse as they are beautiful. Whether you're looking for the perfect gem for an engagement ring or just want to understand more about these dazzling stones, knowing the types of diamonds can help you appreciate their unique qualities.