![]() ![]() Its deep blue coloration is caused by trace amounts of boron in the diamond. Though popularly believed to derive its value from its rarity, gem-quality diamonds are quite common compared to rare gemstones such as alexandrite, and annual global rough diamond production is estimated to be about 130 million carats (26 tonnes 29 short tons). The diamond's high value has been the driving force behind dictators and revolutionary entities, especially in Africa, using slave and child labor to mine blood diamonds to fund conflicts. ![]() Through an advertising campaign beginning in the 1930s and continuing into the mid-20th century, De Beers made diamonds into a key part of the betrothal process and a coveted symbol of status. The modern popularity of diamonds was largely created by De Beers Consolidated Mines, which established the first large-scale diamond mines in South Africa. ![]() The practice is documented among European aristocracy as early as the 15th century, though ruby and sapphire were more desirable gemstones. Other characteristics, such as presence or lack of fluorescence, also affect the desirability and thus the value of a diamond used for jewelry.ĭiamonds are used in engagement rings. Diamonds are such a highly traded commodity that multiple organizations have been created for grading and certifying them based on the "four Cs", which are color, cut, clarity, and carat. The hardness of diamond and its high dispersion of light - giving the diamond its characteristic "fire" - make it useful for industrial applications and desirable as jewelry. They have been used as decorative items since ancient times. Part of a series onĭiamond is one of the best-known and most sought-after gemstones. For the singular, see 4C (disambiguation). ![]()
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