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How To Identify A Raw Diamond Easily?

April 06, 2023 ,

Raw diamonds are becoming more popular as people are looking for alternative engagement ring options. But how can you be sure that you are buying a genuine raw diamond?

The best way to determine if a diamond is real is to have it evaluated by a professional. However, there are few ways that you can identify a raw diamond on your own. In this article, we will guide you through a few simple steps that you can follow to identify a raw diamond easily. With these tips, you can be sure that you are getting the best value for your money.

So, if you are interested in purchasing a raw diamond, read on!

Raw Diamond
Raw Diamond

 

Topic Of Contents:

  1. Introduction
  2. What is a raw diamond?
  3. Characteristics of a high-quality raw diamond
  4. The difference between a raw and a polished diamond
  5. How to identify a raw diamond?
  6. Things to avoid when identifying a raw diamond
  7. Final thoughts
  8. FAQs

 

What is a raw diamond?

A raw diamond is a naturally occurring gemstone that has not been cut, polished, or otherwise altered. Raw diamonds are typically found in mines and are then transported to diamond cutters and polishers. Raw diamonds are also sometimes referred to as rough diamonds. Rough diamonds are generally less valuable than polished diamonds, as they require more time and effort to turn into a finished product. However, some buyers prefer raw diamonds for their unique appearance.

Raw diamonds are typically white or yellow, but they can also be blue, green, or even black. They are usually transparent, but they can also be opaque. The value of a raw diamond depends on its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Raw diamonds are not as valuable as cut and polished diamonds, but they are still quite valuable.

 

Characteristics of a high-quality raw diamond

  • Carat Weight: The carat weight of a diamond is a measure of its size. The larger the diamond, the rarer and more valuable it is.
  • Clarity: The clarity of a diamond is a measure of how many blemishes or inclusions it has. The fewer defects or inclusions, the more rare and valuable the diamond.
  • Color: The color of a diamond can range from completely colorless to yellow or brown. The more colorless a diamond is, the more it costs.
  • Fluorescence: Some diamonds will fluoresce under UV light, which can impact their overall appearance and value.
  • Origin: Some diamonds are considered rare and more valuable based on their origin, such as diamonds from certain mines in Africa.

 

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The difference between a raw and a polished diamond

It is easy to identify a raw diamond from a polished one. Here are 10 differences:

  1. Raw diamonds are usually found in nature, while polished diamonds are man-made.
  2. Raw diamonds are usually less expensive than polished diamonds.
  3. Raw diamonds are not as brilliant as polished diamonds.
  4. Raw diamonds often have imperfections, while polished diamonds are typically flawless.
  5. Raw diamonds are not as clear as polished diamonds.
  6. Raw diamonds are cut into various shapes, while polished diamonds are usually cut into rounds.
  7. Raw diamonds are often used for industrial purposes, while polished diamonds are typically used for jewelry.
  8. Raw diamonds come in all colors, while polished diamonds are usually colorless or white.
  9. Raw diamonds are not as durable as polished diamonds.
  10. Raw diamonds require cutting and polishing to unleash their full beauty, while polished diamonds are already in their most beautiful state.

 

How to identify a raw diamond?

  • The first way to identify a raw diamond is by its color. Raw diamonds are usually yellow, brown, or black.
  • Another way to identify a raw diamond is by its clarity. Raw diamonds are typically less clear than cut and polished diamonds.
  • Raw diamonds also tend to be less brilliant than cut and polished diamonds, meaning they do not reflect as much light.
  • The surface of a raw diamond may have a rough texture or an unpolished appearance.
  • Raw diamonds may have natural inclusions, such as small cracks or imperfections, that are not present in cut and polished diamonds.
  • The shape of a raw diamond may be irregular or asymmetrical, as they have not been shaped into a specific cut or shape.
  • Raw diamonds are often smaller in size than cut and polished diamonds, as they have not been selected for their size and shape.
  • Raw diamonds may have an oily or waxy appearance on the surface.
  • If you hold a raw diamond up to a light, you may be able to see some light entering the diamond from the sides.
  • The weight of a raw diamond may be heavier than its cut and polished counterparts.
  • Raw diamonds are often sold in their natural form, without any added settings or embellishments.
  • If you look at a raw diamond under a magnifying glass, you may be able to see some natural inclusions or small fractures.
  • Raw diamonds may have a cloudy or hazy appearance, rather than a clear and sparkling look.
  • The color of a raw diamond may vary within the same stone, with different shades or tones appearing in different areas of the diamond.
  • Raw diamonds may have a dull, matte finish rather than a shiny or reflective surface.
  • Some raw diamonds may have visible cleavage planes, which are natural fractures within the diamond.
  • Raw diamonds may have a natural surface texture that is different from cut and polished diamonds.
  • If you scratch a raw diamond with a hard object, it may leave a mark or streak on the surface.
  • Raw diamonds may have a natural shape that resembles their surrounding environment or the rock they were formed in.

 

Things to avoid when identifying a raw diamond

  • Avoid using a microscope to assess a diamond as this can damage the surface. Instead, it is best to use a loupe which is a handheld magnifying glass.
  • Avoid cleavage testers as they can break the diamond.
  • Do not use a thermal probe as this can change the color of the diamond.
  • Avoid cleansing the diamond with chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as this can change the surface quality of the diamond.

 

Final thoughts

There are many factors to consider when identifying a raw diamond. The most important factor is the existence of an octahedral​ crystal habit. Other signs of a raw diamond include a dull luster, a high specific gravity, and a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. If you are ever in doubt, consult a professional.

Remember to share this article with others so they can learn this valuable skill too. It could come in handy one day and might even make you a million dollars!

 

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FAQs On How To Identify A Raw Diamond

Where are raw diamonds found?

Raw diamonds are found deep underground, or in alluvial deposits where they have been washed down by rivers and streams. Some of the world's most famous diamond mines are found in South africa, such as the premier mine, the cullinan mine, and the finsch mine. Other significant diamond mines are located in Australia, Russia, Canada, Brazil, and India.

How to spot a diamond in the dirt?

The best way to spot a diamond in the dirt is to look for a small, shiny, and colorless object.

Are raw diamonds worth anything?

Yes, raw diamonds are worth something, but they are not as valuable as cut and polished diamonds.

How to identify a raw black diamond?

One way is to look for a stone that is completely opaque and black in color. Another way is to look for a stone that has a dark, sooty surface. Finally, you can look for a stone that has a high specific gravity.

What type of rock is diamond found in?

Diamond is found in kimberlite and lamproite rocks.

How can you test a raw diamond at home?

The most common way to test a raw diamond at home is to use a simple magnifying glass. Hold the diamond up to the magnifying glass and look for any flaws or inclusions. If you can't see any, the diamond is probably of high quality.

What do raw diamonds look like when found?

Raw diamonds are typically found in a cubic or octahedral shape and have a dull, unpolished surface, sometime its looks like broken glass or shards of ice.