In the world of jewelry, there are various ways to describe diamonds and their quality. For some, diamonds are pieces of carbon that shine and sparkle in the light. For others, however, diamonds are more than just rocks used to symbolize love and commitment.
They're investments that have the potential to grow by leaps and bounds over time. One specific type of diamond, an "enhanced diamond," can be an excellent investment opportunity.
So what exactly is an enhanced diamond that makes it so unique? Is it worth investing in an enhanced diamond over other kinds of stones, or is it just an expensive novelty?
What Are Enhanced Diamonds?
Treated diamonds would be a more accurate name for enhanced diamonds, as most are still natural diamonds.
Enhanced diamonds are man-made gemstones that have been altered to improve their appearance or durability.
The treatment process enhances both the internal and external characteristics of a diamond; it affects surface color, clarity, and brilliance. These enhancements typically occur with heat or pressure, which is why they are also known as heated or lab-created stones.
How Are Enhanced Diamonds Made?
In HPHT (high-pressure, high-temperature), a natural diamond gets submerged in a vat of liquid metal with pressures up to 20 GPas (200,000 atmospheres).
The pressure was slowly released and brought back to near normal for weeks. The metal interacts with carbon atoms in the diamond's crystal lattice, altering its electrical conductivity and causing it to fluoresce under ultraviolet light. Natural diamonds only glow blue because they contain boron.
These methods are expensive but fairly quick—they can add enhancements without cutting away any original material in as little as 48 hours.
The History Of Enhanced Diamonds
In 1961, De Beers formed a monopoly and bought most rough diamonds from mines to control prices. However, as demand for natural diamonds increased, De Beers also increased production. It posed a problem for De Beers because it was difficult to control supply when producers had open access to natural supplies of diamonds.
De Beers developed techniques for creating synthetic or lab-grown diamonds called HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature) grown and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) grown stones. Jewelers today use these synthetics, which have become known as "enhanced diamonds."
How Can You Tell If A Diamond Is Enhanced?
The Diamond Dazzles Too Much
If your diamond is a little too white and very bright, that might be a telltale sign that it got treated somehow. Natural diamonds don't have as strong of a shine as lab-grown ones because they've been exposed to the elements over time and didn't undergo some artificial treatment process.
The Diamond Is Surprisingly Bright
If your diamond has a strong shine when it's under normal lighting conditions, this can mean that it's a lot brighter than others that are available for sale.
The Diamond Is Too Perfect To Be Natural
Diamond enhancement involves cutting and polishing the diamond until it becomes more beautiful and perfectly shaped than others. An enhanced diamond one will stand out as something different from the rest of them if you see them together in person.
The Diamond May Be Larger
Even though lab-grown diamonds can be the same size as their enhanced counterparts, most of them are larger. It's more expensive to produce small quantities of diamonds, so when people purchase a smaller stone, they often won't get a lab-grown diamond. They will receive an enhanced stone instead.
Reasons Why People Enhance Their Diamonds
The following reasons outline why many people choose to alter their diamonds;
- Enhance Beauty.
- Make the diamond more durable.
- Increase the value of an unenhanced diamond.
- Increase the size of a diamond.
- Hide information about sourcing the diamond.
- Make a diamond more appealing.
What Makes Enhanced Diamonds Unique?
There are a variety of concepts that make an enhanced diamond unique.
Each diamond is cut and polished by hand, so no two enhanced diamonds are exactly alike. They're also completely natural; no artificial chemicals get used to enhance their color or hardness. It makes them a great choice for those with sensitive skin or who are sensitive to metals or other enhancements.
Additionally, because they don't use metal or other materials to strengthen their structure, they often weigh less than their non-enhanced counterparts. It means you can get more carat weight without sacrificing durability or beauty.
Finally, an enhanced diamond's clarity and natural coloring process provide a bright and stunning appearance that won't fade over time.
Final Thoughts
The most important factor when buying an engagement ring is not just price. It's not just quality. It's also how personal it feels to you and you're spouse-to-be. An enhanced diamond can make these elements come together beautifully and meaningfully. Here at the Luvari collection, we have a great and affordable jeweler for you. Visit our website or contact us today for any queries. We are ready to assist.
