How To Mine Diamonds

Posted on September 13, 2011 by Jane

Are you looking for something exciting to do for your next vacation? Try to enjoy the delight, thrill, and fun of treasure hunting and of finding the most expensive treasure. Here in the United States, mining for diamonds is legal and open to public.
Diamond mining can also bring family vacation into a different level because of the new adventures and activities. If you are now getting interested to such idea, here are the instructions for this exciting bonding time!

1. Get information about diamond mine from the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, or the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Make sure to contact them before pursuing the activity.

2. Choose a travel date. The park is open and free every day for public mining all year, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas and New Years Day. Summer operating hours (Memorial Day through Labor Day) are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The park closes at 5 p.m. during the rest of the year.

3. Accommodations and dates must be booked. The public diamond mine is situated less than 100 miles from Hot Springs, Arkansas, or Texarkana, Arkansas. Get the flight reservations to either city and consider a rental car to drive to the Crater of Diamonds Park.

4. Getting a driving directions from your place to the desired destination. Reserve a hotel or rent a public campsite where you could stay.

5. Admission fees for adults and children whose ages are from 6 to 12 are required; pay a small admission for both. Kids under 6 may also go diamond mining for free. It is also possible to get group discounts.

6. Having handy digging tools and non-motorized ones is advisable. You may rent or buy these tools at the park.

7. Collecting diamonds are allowed only when the park is still open. There is a park staff that could assist you in identifying the diamonds and the other gems you might find.

Moreover, they offer free qualifications or certifications and recommendations to diamond cutters. Also, you may seek help from gemologist to identify the value of what you get.

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What Is A Diamond Tester?

Posted on July 28, 2011 by Jane

Diamond testers are electronic testers used to convert the thermal conductivity of the precious stone into readable and understandable data. This tester will usually tell the person whether the stone is a genuine or fake diamond. In addition, it provides a reading to help the user to easily identify the purity of the gem stone. The precious stones have a high thermal conductivity and gem stones have a low thermal conductivity; a negative reading will point out a gemstone and a positive reading will indicate the stone is a true diamond.

Prior to using the manual, it is very important to read the instructions thoroughly. There are different diamond tester models and they also have different settings, battery power or show a different output to other testers or diamonds.

You have to make sure that the tester is compatible with fully charged batteries. Use the instruction manual as reference to change the settings of the diamond tester, and then remove any protective material from the fine tipped probe. Turn on the tester and wait for a few moments to warm it up.

Take a diamond or gemstone that you already know the configuration and carefully attach the probe to the gem stone. With most testers you will only be required to touch the probe to the gem stone for a few seconds.

Make sure that the reading is accurate. If happen to know the test stone you have used is a gemstone and will generate a negative reading, then your reading should show a negative outcome that indicates the diamond tester is set properly.

Finally, you should connect the probe to the tester onto the diamond. Moreover, the diamond tester will now let you know whether the stone is a diamond or not.

 

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How To Inspect Your Diamond Ring?

Posted on July 27, 2011 by Jane

When it comes to choosing a diamond ring, consumers may rate the gem stone on two different scales: aesthetic or market value. If you are rating the ring based upon its aesthetic value, you will place larger value upon its characteristics that fit with your personal taste. Rating a diamond ring based on its market value, however, requires that a person must hold the monetary worth of the ring’s structural components in high appreciation. More often than not, a diamond consumer will consider both the aesthetic and market values when purchasing a diamond ring. Every consumer will want high-quality materials that suit his personal preferences.

Assess and compare the value of the metal of the ring’s band to the selling price of other available band metals. Keep in mind that platinum bands are considered as the most valuable of band metals; therefore, diamond rings with platinum bands are more costly. The popular choices for band metals are rose gold, white gold and yellow gold.

Choose a diamond ring that has a diamond shape you prefer. The common shapes of diamond rings are round, emerald, oval and cushion.

Evaluate the gem stones in the ring for their cut, color, and clarity as well as carat weight. The way a diamond is cut has an effect on how light enters and exits the gem stone; this is known as the diamond’s brilliance or sparkle. The stone’s color ranges from D, which is the clearest and most desirable, to Z, which is less desirable with a hint of color. The diamond’s clarity refers to the amount and size of natural flaws a gem stone has, and the fewer imperfections the better. The stone’s carat weight matches up to its weight. Keep in mind that a larger diamond will have a greater carat weight and is likely to be more costly than a diamond with a lower carat weight.

 

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Tips To Evaluate Loose Diamonds

Posted on July 22, 2011 by Jane

According to experts, loose diamonds are easier to evaluate than other kinds of set diamonds due to the lack of a setting that enables a person to access all features of the precious gem stone. While the aspects that go into a stone’s quality are the same despite of whether or not the diamond is set, the process of evaluating it is a little easier when you do not have to work around the stone’s setting. Even though each diamond shopper can have experts such as licensed jeweler, appraiser or gemologist who can examine a diamond prior to buying it, you can get a good idea the stone’s quality by examining it carefully both with the naked eye and using a microscope.

Check and inspect the diamond’s color. According to diamond experts, the clearer a diamond is, the better the quality. However, “fancy” colored diamonds are not included in this theory. A diamond shopper can examine this by viewing the stone under a bright light. Keep in mind that if the stone appears cloudy or has a shade of yellow or brown, then the precious gem stone is not of particularly good quality.

Closely check the features and angles of the stone. Diamonds are known for their good capability to cut many extremely hard objects. Facets and their junctions should be extremely sharp and clearly defined. If the features are rounded or worn, this simply means that you may be dealing with a fake diamond.

Next thing to do is to verify all the diamond’s inclusions. If a diamond looks perfect, you absolutely must verify this with a licensed and reputable jeweler. Fake stones do not have inclusions, so if a deal appears too good to be true, and then it probably is. You should be able to identify a stone by its unique locations and types of inclusions. Keep in mind that large inclusions that are visible to the naked eye dramatically reduce the value of a diamond, while smaller inclusions tend to be less of a problem.

 

 

 

 

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Diamond Mining Process

Posted on July 20, 2011 by Jane

Diamonds are naturally formed precious tones that are considered as the hardest substance in the world. The diamond industry is extremely big and it is known as an international and multi-billion dollar industry. However, it has been plagued in recent years by the issues that are related to blood diamonds.

Blood diamonds are precious gems which have been mined, usually by subsistence labor, and these diamonds are sold to fund armed conflict and civil wars. These profits are used to fuel continued conflict in many areas of the world. There are many organizations that are doing their best to minimize the mining and selling of these diamonds but their efforts have been largely ineffective.

The process of mining a diamond on a large scale is usually done with either a pipe mining process or alluvial mining process.

Pipe Mining

In this process, the pipe does not refer to the usual man-made pipes, but rather to a geological formation. Pipe mining refers to the extraction of diamonds from spots where a volcanic activity occurred. Usually, a very large area has to be covered and there is an average of 250 tons of ore must be mined in order to produce a one-carat of a quality polished diamond.

Alluvial Mining

This method of mining involves the extraction of diamonds from riverbeds or ocean beaches. In order to extract these gem stones from beaches, there is a wall that is built to hold back the surf. There are about 25 meters of sand that is bulldozed aside to reach the level of diamond-bearing. Once the level is reached, the diamond-bearing earth is removed and transported to screening plants. The process involves sifting through mud and sand using shovels and strainers. It is labor intensive and considered as accountable for the vast majority of blood diamonds.

 

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How To Identify Fake Diamonds

Posted on July 18, 2011 by Jane

At present, there are many high quality fake diamonds and it may be difficult to identify a diamond’s authenticity. Moreover, some jewelry dealers are dishonest and sell fake gem stones to consumers and sell them in high prices. Therefore, it is very important to know the difference of fake and genuine diamonds. Below are several ways to spot a fake one.

The first and very important thing to do is to ask about the precious stone. Keep in mind that a knowledgeable jewelry dealer should be able to give relevant and right information about it. For instance, you may ask whether the gem stone is a diamond or moissanite. Remember that a moissanite stone is closely similar to a diamond, and it can be hard to differentiate the two stones. In addition, some jewelry stores have a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. With this said, you still have to ask about important information about the stone.

Next important thing to do is to check the diamond’s setting and mounting. Keep in mind that fake gem stones are usually set in substandard metals. You need to ask the jewelry dealer about the silver or gold metal. You should know whether it is gold or silver plated. While a jeweler stores may claim the diamond’s authenticity, they may mistakenly acknowledge an inferior metal. Keep in mind that cheap settings usually indicate a low-priced stone.

You should check the gem stone and look for scratches. Diamonds are stones that are very durable. However, cubic zirconium and moissanite are stones that can be scratched easily. Prior to buying a diamond, one must carefully check its scratches and other blemishes. Ask for a small magnifying glass to closely check your diamond. Multiple imperfections simple mean the diamond is a fake.

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Why Diamonds Are So Popular?

Posted on July 14, 2011 by Jane

A diamond is a precious gem that has a long history of being highly valued and sought after by human beings. The stone is a mix of its unique hardness and exceptional physical clarity that has made it become an object that symbolizes social and financial status as well as success. At present, the society has a lot of tangible objects to reflect each person’s social and financial status.

According to experts, diamonds are the considered as the most stable form of carbon, other than graphite. These stones are formed in high-pressure and high-temperature states at depths between 140km and 190km in the Earth mantle. These gem stones come close to the Earth surface by magma that is moved due to deep volcanic eruptions.

Because of the way diamonds are formed and the specific conditions they require, these precious gems only exist in certain parts of the world. Diamonds cannot be manufactured and they are considered to be relatively uncommon. Manufacturers of diamonds are sure to keep their stocks high in case there is ever a shortage. Diamonds are extremely popular because they are seen as something very desirable. As a result, they are essentially in limited supply.

Diamonds Are Natural Wonder

Diamonds are considered to be one of the world’s most stunning natural materials. Their clear colouring which gives eye-catching characteristics and heir physical properties are quite amazing. These gems have the highest hardness and thermal conductivity of any of the Earth’s bulk materials.

The extreme strength and usefulness of these stones has led them to become highly appreciated. Many people, especially women consider owning diamond jewelry that will serve as their personal reflection. The stone is also a sign of financially status and success because diamond’s rarity makes them a very expensive commodity.

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What are the common issues in diamond’s cut?

Posted on July 12, 2011 by Jane

Diamond shoppers usually use a traditional jeweler in order for them to buy the precious gems they desire. More and more consumers are purchasing diamonds over the Internet. Online consumers are able to see a variety of diamond shapes, sizes, and qualities that allow them to be more informed and confident about online purchase. In some cases, the diamond shopper may decide to purchase from the local jeweler based on their preferred service and selection. In either case, a consumer should remember these important things in buying a diamond.

The most common mistake made when buying a diamond is to be misled on the diamond’s cut quality. A diamond’s cut is more difficult to define than its color or clarity, and therefore this feature is often ignored or misrepresented.

Diamond sellers show two or three diamonds of various cut qualities to the consumer, in an effort to sell the best of the available options they have. While the customers may choose the best selection shown to them, it is not necessarily a well cut gem stone. It is simply the best of what is currently available at their particular store.

Another common mistake happens when purchasing a deeply cut diamond. A deeply cut diamond has more of its carat weight that is hidden in the depth of the stone as opposed to its width. These diamonds are less expensive per carat, and are very visible in most jewelry stores. In most cases, a shopper might purchase a 1.00 carat diamond that actually looks like a .90 carat diamond because it is too deeply cut.

Because most consumers know that well cut diamonds are more costly per carat than fair cut ones, few consumers are carried in traditional jewelry stores. Less than well cut diamonds cost can be sold at a lower price.

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Discover the Most Popular Diamond Cuts

Posted on July 7, 2011 by Jane

Diamonds are available in all shapes and sizes. Here are the most popular types of diamond cuts:

Marquise Cut

This diamond cut is a slender striking cut that cutters often use for their greatest creations and masterpieces. The shape gives a feeling that the diamond is bigger than its actual size. A marquise diamond length is twice bigger than its width. These diamonds have an elongated shape with pointed ends. They are often used as a solitaire or enhanced by smaller gen stones.

Round Cut

This is a circle cut diamond. These diamonds have always been an excellent choice for engagement rings. However, these diamonds have a not-so-modern appearance. Round diamonds take center stage in the classic engagement ring. People often choose a round, solitaire diamond set either in yellow gold or platinum. In addition, other shapes are called fancy shapes.

Pear Cut

This is known as a hybrid cut that combines the best of the oval and the marquise and has a teardrop shape. These diamonds are similar to a hand with small or average-length fingers. They are often used as pendants or earrings.

Oval Cut

Oval diamonds display an even, perfectly symmetrical design that is very popular among women. These diamonds have an elongated shape which can make a woman’s finger come out longer. This cut is particularly good for rings with a wide band or long rows of accent precious stones. This cut is very popular due to its outstanding shine and sparkle.

Princess Cut

These diamonds are perhaps known as the most popular types of the fancy shaped diamonds. They are relatively new with a shape that is oblong, square or almost square but with a customized brilliant cut arrangement of surfaces instead of a step cut. These diamonds are often used in design of yellow gold, white gold, or platinum rings. They are elegant and classic.

 

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How To Identify A Diamond’s Clarity?

Posted on July 5, 2011 by Jane

Jewelers and gem experts consider the four features of a diamond; these features are also known as “Four C’s”–cut, color, carat and clarity that help people to determine the value of a particular diamond. It is very important to understand diamond clarity; however, not all people are knowledgeable of the technical words of the diamond industry.

What is clarity?

Diamond’s clarity is a measure of its quality as reflected in the size, number, and location of any blemishes or inclusions in the precious stone. Blemishes refer to the flaws on the surface of the diamond while the inclusions refer to the internal flaws. Any flaws and inclusions found in a diamond will have an effect on the way how light is reflected and refracted by the gem’s facets. Generally, flaws and inclusions reduce the value of the diamond.

Experts determine the clarity of a diamond by examining it using a 10X jewelers’ loupe. It allows a gemologist to view the stone at ten times its normal size. That makes the diamond easy to see any flaws or inclusions that may be present in the stone. To increase a diamond’s value, a “plot” that shows and describes all the inclusions on a stone is often seen as the diamond’s “fingerprint” by gemologists.

Diamond Grading

GIA International Grading System is the worldwide recognized standard for diamond clarity assessment. It was developed and established by the Gemological Institute of America in the 1940s and 1950s. The scale contains 11 grades that range from FL (Flawless) to I3 or known as obvious inclusions. According to the GIA, most diamonds are in four grades-VS1, VS2, SI1 and SI2 and these stones have slight or very slight inclusions. When it comes to buying a diamond, inclusions in grades FL through SI can only be seen under magnification. They only affect the value of the stone, but not it appearance.

 

 

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