Diamonds

...are one of the most highly valued and desirable gemstones, known for their durability, brilliance and rarity. Composed of pure carbon set in a crystal lattice which allows very precise cutting, exquisite brilliance, an exceptional hardness of 10 on the Moh's scale they are the hardest gemstone known to man. Formed deep within the earth's mantle, diamonds are exuded to the surface via Kimberlite pipes and have an age that is often 3 billion years or older. This alone makes them a unique gemstone.

The value of a Diamond is determined by the 4 C's - colour, clarity, cut and carat weight. The most desirable being internally flawless and colourless. Diamonds have a long history of use in jewellery and the name derives from the greek word "adamas" meaning invincible. Often associated with engagements and weddings they symbolise enduring love and commitment. Available in different colours, if natural they may be very valuable indeed. The past 20 years have seen a clamp down on regulations ensuring that they are ethically sourced and that the illegal trade of diamonds funding conflict has been dramatically reduced.

Recent years have shown a huge increase in the supply and manufacture of laboratory grown Diamonds. These are real Diamonds just without the history and age. Their physical properties are very similar although their value is not appreciating as natural, mined Diamonds are, these are depreciating and will continue to do so over time as more and more are made. The natural, mined Diamonds are conversely becoming more and more desirable and their value, especially high grade Diamonds, is increasing.

Diamonds are the birthstone for April, the zodiac stone for Aries and the 10th, 60th and 75th anniversary stone.

We have a lovely collection of natural, mined Diamonds as well as laboratory grown Diamonds.