Authenticity and Timeless Beauty
Discover the Authentic Beauty of Natural Diamonds
Ethically Sourced Natural Diamonds – A Legacy of Trust
Natural diamonds are a symbol of eternal beauty and sophistication. Each diamond carries a unique story formed over billions of years under the Earth’s surface. At Gopal Gems, we bring you a curated collection of natural diamonds that reflect unmatched brilliance and purity.
The Formation of Natural Diamonds
Natural Diamonds are formed deep within the earth’s mantle under intense heat and pressure over billions of years. Natural Diamonds are made of only one element, Pure Carbon. and each carbon atom is bonded to 4 other carbon atoms in a crystal lattice structureThe bonds in diamonds are held in such a tight structure that all light passes around them, which is why diamonds look transparent. At very high pressures and temperatures, the carbon atoms are squeezed so much that they start touching more atoms. When the pressure is about 50,000 times the pressure at the surface of the Earth and the temperature is about 1600°C, the carbon atoms bond with 4 other atoms and result in diamonds.
Natural Diamonds are formed in kimberlite pipes, which are volcanic rock formations that bring diamonds up to the earth’s surface. Volcanic eruptions happen when gas trapped at that depth gets too hot and expands and rises. As the gas escapes towards Earth’s surface, the rocks and diamonds located around it will also be moved to the surface. Diamonds can also be found in alluvial Soils, where they are carried by rivers and streams from their original source and deposited in sedimentary rocks.
It can take up to 3 billion years to create diamonds under those conditions, and kimberlite eruptions do not happen frequently. Natural Diamonds are highly prized for their rarity, beauty, and durability. For Centuries Natural Diamonds are used for Making Jewellery and as a Luxury Goods. The diamond industry is a major global business, with mining operations and trading networks spanning many countries.
Our Process to Make a Finished Diamond from Raw Natural Diamond
Making a finished diamond from a raw natural diamond is a detailed and precise process that transforms a rough stone into a beautifully polished gem.
Mining and Extraction
- Discovery: The process begins with discovering diamond deposits, which can be located in kimberlite pipes, riverbeds, or seabeds.
- Extraction: Diamonds are extracted through various methods, such as open-pit mining, underground mining, or alluvial mining, depending on the location and type of deposit.
Sorting and Grading
- Initial Sorting: Once extracted, rough diamonds are sorted based on size, shape, colour, and clarity. This is done to determine their potential for cutting and polishing.
- Grading: Diamonds are graded by experts to assess their quality. They consider the “4 Cs”: carat weight, colour, clarity, and cut. This grading helps in planning the cutting process to maximize the diamond’s value and aesthetics.
Sorting and Grading
- Initial Sorting: Once extracted, rough diamonds are sorted based on size, shape, colour, and clarity. This is done to determine their potential for cutting and polishing.
- Grading: Diamonds are graded by experts to assess their quality. They consider the “4 Cs”: carat weight, colour, clarity, and cut. This grading helps in planning the cutting process to maximize the diamond’s value and aesthetics.
Planning the Cut
- Mapping: Modern technology, such as laser mapping and computer software, is used to create a 3D model of the rough diamond. This helps to determine the best way to cut the stone.
- Cutting Plan: The diamond is analyzed to decide where to make cuts that will yield the largest possible stones with the highest quality. Factors like inclusions and imperfections are considered to minimize waste.
Cleaving or Sawing
- Cleaving: For large diamonds, the stone is sometimes split along natural planes using a steel blade. This process, called cleaving, breaks the diamond into smaller pieces that are easier to work with.
- Sawing: A high-speed diamond saw or laser is used to cut the rough diamond into smaller, more manageable pieces according to the cutting plan. This step requires precision to avoid damaging the stone.
Cleaving or Sawing
- Cleaving: For large diamonds, the stone is sometimes split along natural planes using a steel blade. This process, called cleaving, breaks the diamond into smaller pieces that are easier to work with.
- Sawing: A high-speed diamond saw or laser is used to cut the rough diamond into smaller, more manageable pieces according to the cutting plan. This step requires precision to avoid damaging the stone.
Bruting (Shaping)
- Rough Shaping: Bruting, also known as girdling, involves rounding the diamond into a basic shape. This is usually done on a lathe, where two diamonds are placed in contact to grind each other down.
- Creating the Girdle: The girdle, the outer edge of the diamond, is formed during this process. It defines the outline of the finished diamond.
Faceting
- Initial Faceting: The first facets, known as “table facets,” are cut on the top of the diamond. These are the largest and most important facets as they influence the diamond’s brilliance and light performance.
- Additional Facets: Smaller facets are then added to create the diamond’s final shape, such as round, princess, emerald, or other fancy cuts. Each facet must be cut at precise angles to ensure maximum brilliance and fire.
Faceting
- Initial Faceting: The first facets, known as “table facets,” are cut on the top of the diamond. These are the largest and most important facets as they influence the diamond’s brilliance and light performance.
- Additional Facets: Smaller facets are then added to create the diamond’s final shape, such as round, princess, emerald, or other fancy cuts. Each facet must be cut at precise angles to ensure maximum brilliance and fire.
Polishing
- Polishing the Facets: Each facet is polished to enhance the diamond’s lustre and sparkle. This is a meticulous process that involves smoothing the surface of the diamond to eliminate any roughness from the cutting process.
- Final Inspection: After polishing, the diamond undergoes a final inspection to ensure it meets quality standards and specifications.