A Real Diamond is Forever
Diamonds…the word is magical, creates fascinating images of royal jewels, is timeless in its image, and has great historical value. The concept that synthetic diamonds may somehow hold a serious place in the future of the diamond market is debatable at best.
Admittedly, the market is flooded with artificial gemstones; among them, the artificial diamond has certainly made a name for itself under many different identities. Among the oldest, the name Cubic Zirconia has been marketed as the diamond for five decades.
Artificial diamonds have become common in jewelry making throughout the world. There is a considerably lower cost than real diamonds, and the diamond stimulant has become the most important diamond substitute in the jewelry industry. It contains all the properties found in a real diamond, but is a more affordable option for the retail buyer.
A diamond simulant may be natural, artificial, or a combination of both materials. The material properties of a diamond simulant are different from those of a natural diamond; however, simulants do have certain considerations that make them an option. Dispersion and hardness of diamond simulants is similar in appearance; in most cases, only a
Graduate Gemologist can distinguish the difference between natural diamonds, synthetic diamonds, and diamond simulants.
In the world of artificial fabrics, artificial foods, artificial flavors, artificial scents, silver and gold plating, and computer intelligence, it’s nice to know that some things are always the same.
While the issues continue to arise regarding blood diamonds, and deplorable conditions under which diamonds are mined, the importance of natural diamonds cannot be underestimated. Admittedly, artificial and simulant gemstones have their place in terms of cost and security, when wearing a natural diamond may be an issue of concern or practicality. The long history of jewels from the crowned heads of Europe to the financially elite of the world have always dotted the pages of newspapers from Hollywood to Hong Kong.
The Hope Diamond, The Koh-I-Noor, The Krupp, The Niarchos, The Tiffany Yellow, The Cullinan, The Excelsior, and The Regent are representative of some of the finest diamonds in the world. While the rising cost of a natural diamond may be questionable to some, the sentimental value of a natural gemstone given to an adoring fiance can never be underestimated. Artificial diamonds have their place, unquestionablybut they will never replace the fire and color of natural gemstones, or the fire born in the heart when a diamond has captivated the thinking.
A real diamond is forever, even in the twenty-first century.
