Diamond - Uses & Properties

by Butler Raines

A diamond is the hardest known mineral that occurs naturally. It is basically an allotrope of carbon in which several carbon atoms are bonded tetrahedrally and it crystallizes into the face-centered cubic diamond lattice structure. Each carbon atom has four other carbon atoms joined to it by covalent bonds and so, diamond has a very strong 3D shape. This arrangement makes it hardest known mineral and hence, suitable for a number of applications. Diamonds offer high dispersion of light and this makes them very suitable for a number of industrial applications and for jewelry as well. Regular diamonds are put under specific pressure and temperature conditions to produce Type-II diamonds

Origin of the Diamond Trade

by Eli Zabib

Get the upper hand on your quest to find your special diamond. This article is the third in an 11 part series designed to make you a diamond "expert." The complete series will arm you with the vital knowledge you'll need in order to find and buy the perfect diamond for you at the best possible price.