M. Geller Academy
- Home
- /
- M. Geller Academy
- /
- Learn Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle, typically around 90 to 150 miles below the surface, under conditions of extremely high pressure and temperature.
They are composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure, creating equal strength in all four directions granting diamond’s their immense hardness.
These carbon atoms result in an octahedron. The process of diamond formation begins with carbon being subjected to intense heat and pressure, causing the carbon atoms to crystallize into diamond over millions or even billions of years.
These diamonds are then brought closer to the Earth's surface via volcanic eruptions or through geological processes such as kimberlite and lamproite pipes.
The history of natural diamonds dates back billions of years, though their popularity is only recent. Diamonds were first formed deep within the Earth's mantle billions of years ago, however, that does not mean it took billions of years to form. Scientists have not been able to determine the exact amount of time required for formation, but the prevailing theory is that diamond’s formed quickly, in some cases instantly.
Some diamonds formed over a longer period of time, stopping and starting. Once diamonds were brought to the surface, it wasn’t long before humans were fascinated with their unique beauty. They were first discovered and used by ancient civilizations in India around the 4th century BC. The earliest recorded reference to diamonds comes from Sanskrit texts dating back to this period
Diamonds gained significant cultural and economic importance over the centuries. They were prized by royalty and the wealthy elite as symbols of wealth, power, and status. The Indian subcontinent remained the primary source of diamonds until the 18th century when diamond deposits were discovered in Brazil. Subsequently, significant diamond deposits were found in other regions such as South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.
The discovery of large diamond deposits in South Africa in the late 19th century led to a significant increase in diamond production and marked the beginning of modern diamond mining. The De Beers company, founded by Cecil Rhodes, played a central role in consolidating control over diamond production and distribution, establishing the diamond cartel that dominated the industry for much of the 20th century.
To bring these diamonds to market, two main methods are employed, open-pit mining and underground mining.
Open pit mining: Open pit mining involves the excavation of large pits to access diamond-bearing ore. It's commonly used when diamond deposits are relatively close to the surface. The process involves the removal of overburden (the topsoil and rock covering the diamond-bearing ore), followed by the extraction and processing of the ore to recover diamonds.
Underground mining methods: When diamond deposits are deeper in the crust, underground mining methods are employed. This can involve shaft mining, where vertical shafts are dug to access the ore, or tunneling techniques to access the ore horizontally. Underground mining requires more complex infrastructure and is typically more expensive than open-pit mining. In some areas, a less invasive version can be used on the sea floor, to dredge diamonds from volcanic rich areas.
Today, natural diamonds continue to be mined for various purposes, including jewelry, industrial applications, and investment. However, concerns over environmental impact, labor practices, and the ethical sourcing of diamonds have led to the development of initiatives such as the Kimberley Process, aimed at regulating the diamond trade and preventing the sale of "conflict diamonds" mined in war zones and used to finance armed conflict.
M. Geller recognizes that while unparalleled in their beauty, natural diamonds require extra care to remain that way ethically. As such, M. Geller prides itself on being a long standing member of the Responsible Jewelry Council, and continually hold ourselves to a standard you and your customers can have confidence in.