Are Diamonds Rare? 8 Common Myths About Diamonds

1. Diamonds Formed From Pressurized Coal

You probably remember that all diamonds are naturally as a result of pressurized coal. The theory is that diamonds form deep within the mantle of the Earth from graphite.

While this may be true (no one can prove or disprove this theory), there are also methods of generating diamonds.

It is also true that today are a lot of lab for generation of diamonds. This does not necessarily make them worth less money. In fact, diamonds from that labs have less flawed than natural diamonds. Both are acceptable, and honestly, unless you are a jeweler or scientist, who will know the difference?

2. Diamonds Are Forever

Another common misconception is that it is impossible to destruct diamonds. Yes, diamonds are strong and durable but they are not immune to destruction. The base of diamonds is carbon, so they can degrade over time. It might take hundreds of years, but no, diamonds are not forever. They might last for your lifetime, but they are not “immortal” so to speak. As well, scratches and otherwise damaged can be on the diamonds if not properly cared for.

3. Diamonds Are Rare

Diamonds may be a lot of things, but they are not rare. Stop a minute to take inventory of everyone you know that has some form of a diamond: a ring, necklaces. Earrings, tennis bracelets, and so forth. It’s a lot, right? Well then obviously, diamonds can’t be rare.

However, this does not take away from their beauty or worth. Every diamond is different, whether it’s in size, color, cut, clarity, setting or so forth.

4. Diamonds Are Precious Gems

The terms “precious” and “semi-precious” pertaining to the value of gemstone were coined in 18th century France by a jewelry store owner. While the terms are still widely for buying and selling gemstones, scientists and professionals actually form it up as there is no exact science to design between the two.

5. Diamonds Are The Traditional Choice For Engagement Rings

Engagement rings and wedding bands date back to ancient times, but the distinction of the diamond engagement ring only submerged in the last century, thanks to the De Beers, who started the tradition of using diamonds in engagement ring settings.

Nowadays, more people are choosing to other gemstones for their engagement rings, such as rubies, emeralds, or sapphires. Still, others are using a combination of diamonds and other gemstones and yet others are opting for a fancy band without a gemstone. It’s all a matter of personal preference, so don’t feel bad if you don’t think diamonds are a girl’s best friend, you are not alone!

6. Diamonds Can’t Have Be Altered

Other myth: diamonds have flat edges and therefore cannot be carved, changed or altered in any form. However, if you’ve ever looked closely at a diamond, you will notice that the majority of them are altered in some manner. Some of them – via natural formation or the mining process, while others – via diamond cutting tools.

7. The Bigger The Diamond, The More It’s Worth

This is not always the case. Sure, a big diamond may appear to be more value. Many things, such as the 4 C’s (color, cut, clarity, and mass) and the certification of authenticity determine it’s value. If you go by this measure, a smaller diamond with certain clarity and cut may be worth far more money than a larger diamond with a smaller color and clarity. And so forth.

8. The 4C’s Of A Diamond Are The Sole Indicator Of Its Value

Also, need to take into consideration the history of a diamond as well as the age. If a ring has historical significance or is very old, it can raise the monetary value quite significantly.

And that’s just monetary value. However personal value is a different story. If you happen to be someone who loves family history and is the proud owner of your great-grandmother’s ring, could hold a lot more personal value than a brand new expensive diamond. And for others, the simple fact that the love of their life has chosen their diamond engagement ring alone makes it priceless!