Black Diamond
Black Diamond, Princess
GEMSTONE DETAIL Dimensions: 1.6×1.6mm to 4.75×4.75mm Color: Opaque Black Clarity: Included Shape: Princess Make: Very Good Symmetry: Very Good Treatment: Enhanced by Irradiation / HTHP Cut: Very Good
Black Diamond, Princess
GEMSTONE DETAIL Dimensions: 1.6×1.6mm to 4.75×4.75mm Color: Opaque Black Clarity: Included Shape: Princess Make: Very Good Symmetry: Very Good Treatment: Enhanced by Irradiation / HTHP Cut: Very Good
Black Diamond, Round
GEMSTONE DETAIL Dimensions: 0.90mm to 6.50mm Color: Opaque Black Clarity: Included Shape: Round Make: Very Good Symmetry: Very Good Treatment: Enhanced by Irradiation / HTHP Cut: Very Good
Black Diamond, Round
GEMSTONE DETAIL Dimensions: 0.90mm to 6.50mm Color: Opaque Black Clarity: Included Shape: Round Make: Very Good Symmetry: Very Good Treatment: Enhanced by Irradiation / HTHP Cut: Very Good
Black Diamond, Round Rose Cut
GEMSTONE DETAIL Dimensions: 3mm to 7mm Color: Opaque Black Clarity: Included Shape: Round Rose cut Make: Very Good Symmetry: Very Good Treatment: Enhanced by Irradiation / HTHP Cut:
Black Diamond, Round Rose Cut
GEMSTONE DETAIL Dimensions: 3mm to 7mm Color: Opaque Black Clarity: Included Shape: Round Rose cut Make: Very Good Symmetry: Very Good Treatment: Enhanced by Irradiation / HTHP Cut:
Black Diamond
Black Diamonds
Black diamonds, or carbonado, are unique gemstones with dark internal structure and beautiful outward appearance. These gemstones possess similar qualities with colorless diamonds. Black diamonds have an impressive 10 Mohs’ rating and an above-average glitter index of 2.4.
Dark diamonds are dense and can withstand intense pressure and heat. Black diamonds don’t conduct electricity too well, so they are ideal as adornments on luxury jewelry and for other decorative purposes.
There’s so much more you need to know about these diamonds before they become part of your jewelry collection. That’s why this article provides vital details on the origins, uses, and maintenance tips for black diamonds.
All the information in this post provides everything you need to know about black diamonds and how to maintain their signature glitter for much longer.
History of Black Diamonds
There’s no consensus on the origins of black diamonds with at least six (6) different existing theories accepted in various circles. However, it is on record that man discovered diamonds 6000+ years ago in ancient India and continues to use it for different purposes.
Carbon conversion under high pressure and heat is the most common and widely accepted theory about the origin of black diamonds. Many scientists believe that black diamonds form under intense pressure underground and its dark structure results from intense heat and chemical changes during formation.
Other theories suggest shock metamorphism, radiation, accumulated formation, supernova molding, and extraterrestrial asteroid deposits as major origins of black diamonds.
How are Black Diamonds Made?
Black natural diamonds are most likely made under the earth’s crust high-pressure high-heat (HPHT) treatment. Scientists also replicate the HPHT method to create lab-made black diamonds with similar properties and physical appearance.
Uses of Black Diamonds
Black diamonds are mostly useful as adornments on luxury jewelry. These gem pieces perfectly fit jewelry made from gold, silver, or other precious metals. Black diamonds also feature on luxury glasswork and other decorative detailing.
Chemical Properties of Black Diamonds
- Hardness (Mohs’ Scale): 10
- Density: 3.5 – 3.53 g/cm3
- Refractive Index: 2.418 (@ 500 nm)
- Dispersion: Low (0.044)
- Heat Resistance: 690°C to 840°C
- Fracture: Irregular/Uneven
- Specific Gravity: 3.52 g/cm3
Maintenance Tips for Black Diamonds
Effective methods to maintain your black gems include:
Ultrasonic cleaners – Ultrasonic cleaners use waves to clear off stains and dirt on jewelry pieces. It’s not the best maintenance tool for first-time buyers or owners of enhanced diamonds.
Proper storage – Store gems in airtight and cushioned boxes to stop it grime or dirt buildup from prolonged exposure.
Liquid soap and water cleaning – Liquid soap in warm water comes in handy to wash off stains on your diamonds; ideal for common stains on most gemstones and attached jewelry.
Commercial jewelry cleaning solution – Preferred cleaner for many gemstones; needs rub-in with soft cloth or toilet paper for better results.
Steam cleaners – Handheld steam cleaners can help remove stains from your gems; works well when you wipe immediately after with a dry cloth or tissue paper.
Your jeweler has all the information you need to maintain your Black diamonds properly. Inform your jeweler beforehand if you plan to maintain a color-enhanced diamond.