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Have you ever wondered what it takes to identify a raw diamond? It’s not as easy as you may think. In fact, it’s an exacting process that requires a trained eye and an understanding of the characteristics of diamonds.
In this article, you’ll learn the basic steps you can take to identify a raw diamond. We’ll discuss the visual clues, including color, clarity, and cut, that can help you determine whether or not a diamond is real. We’ll also look at the technical tests you can use to verify a diamond’s authenticity. Finally, we’ll cover where to find raw diamonds and how to buy them.
Visual Identification of Raw Diamonds
The first step in identifying a raw diamond is to examine it visually. While this is not a definitive test, it can help you narrow down the possibilities. The most important characteristics to look for are color, clarity, and cut.
Color
The color of a raw diamond can range from colorless to yellow or brown. The more colorless a diamond is, the more valuable it is. A colorless diamond is the most valuable, followed by a yellow or brown diamond.
Clarity
Clarity refers to the clarity of a diamond’s facets. The clearer the diamond, the more valuable it is. If a diamond has inclusions, or internal flaws, it is less valuable.
Cut
The cut of a diamond is a crucial factor in determining its value. A well-cut diamond will have excellent symmetry and sparkle. A poorly cut diamond will appear dull and lack luster.
Technical Testing of Raw Diamonds
In addition to visual identification, there are several technical tests that can be used to verify a diamond’s authenticity. The most common tests are the thermal conductivity test, the refractive index test, and the fluorescence test.
Thermal Conductivity Test
The thermal conductivity test measures the amount of heat a diamond can absorb or dissipate. Diamonds are excellent thermal conductors, meaning that they can absorb and dissipate heat quickly. If a stone does not pass the thermal conductivity test, it is not a diamond.
Refractive Index Test
The refractive index test measures the amount of light a diamond can bend. A diamond has an extremely high refractive index, meaning that it can bend light more than any other gemstone. If a stone does not pass the refractive index test, it is not a diamond.
Fluorescence Test
The fluorescence test measures the amount of ultraviolet light a diamond can absorb or emit. Diamonds emit a blue or yellow light when exposed to UV light. If a stone does not pass the fluorescence test, it is not a diamond.
Where to Find Raw Diamonds
Raw diamonds can be found in a variety of places, including diamond mines, alluvial deposits, and jewelry stores. Diamond mines are the most common source of raw diamonds, as they are usually located in remote locations and are difficult to access. Alluvial deposits are also a good source, as they are usually found in rivers and streams. Jewelry stores, on the other hand, can be a good source of raw diamonds, as they often have a wide selection of stones.
How to Buy Raw Diamonds
When buying raw diamonds, it’s important to make sure that you’re getting the best possible deal. Be sure to shop around and compare prices from different sources. It’s also important to know what type of diamond you’re looking for and to get an appraisal from a certified gemologist before making a purchase.
Conclusion
Identifying raw diamonds can be a difficult process, but with a trained eye and an understanding of the characteristics of diamonds, it can be done. Be sure to look for color, clarity, and cut and to use technical tests to verify a diamond’s authenticity. You should also be sure to shop around and get an appraisal before making a purchase.