There is no doubt that a large portion of the world loves and covets diamonds. They are used to convey status and to decorate the fingers of brides around the world. The white diamond is the most common of the different varieties. A white diamond is in fact almost colourless, although it is classified in several ways. There are colourless diamonds, nearly colourless, and tinted diamonds from faintly tinted to fully tinted. The tint on diamonds is usually a yellowish colour. White diamonds are so popular because they have very few imperfections or impurities. Sometimes, if a diamond is exposed to certain substances like nitrogen, for instance, they can become discoloured. This impurity can make them less desirable and valuable. Read on for all you need to know about the history of white diamonds.
How they form
Diamonds start out well below the earth at approximately 150 to 190 feet under ground. The extreme pressure and heat at this depth exert themselves onto the carbon substances and over a billion years, diamonds start to form. As time goes on, volcanic eruptions beneath the earth push the diamonds upwards. At that point, they are mined by people and cut and polished into the shapes and sizes we see in jewellery stores.
Earliest discovery
The exact date of discovery of the first diamond is unknown, but it’s believed that diamonds were first found in India as far back as 400 BC, although it may have been even earlier. For a century, they were mainly traded amongst the rich in India, but by 300 BC they had started making their way to Europe, where the sparkle and flawless nature of the stone became very popular. For many centuries, it was believed that diamonds could only be found in India, but this changed in the 1800s when they began popping up in other places. As the demand grew, people started to experiment with cutting and polishing the stone to customise its look. The results were stunning.
Industrialisation
In 1725, there were some diamonds discovered in Brazil. While the amount was insignificant compared to the abundance in India, it was a major discovery that led to treasure hunters searching for other spots that might yield the valuable substance. It wasn’t until the late 1800s a fortunate find by a 15-year-old boy walking along the banks of the Orange River in South Africa did the diamond business really pick up. More deposits were found in the area, and soon an enormous mining industry sprang up from nothing. The biggest player to emerge was DeBeers Consolidated Mines. By 1900, they were responsible for all but 10% of the world’s diamond trade. Unfortunately, with the new supply, diamonds were no longer the rare commodity they had once been, and prices dropped. By 1919 their value had bottomed out.
As the industry grew, new techniques were developed for mining diamonds and making the process more efficient so the mining companies could cut costs. While the value of diamonds had hit its bottom, the modernizing of the mining process laid the groundwork for what was to come.
Modern usage
The resurgence of the diamond, and specifically the white diamond as the most popular type, was spurred on by one of the greatest marketing campaigns in history. In 1947, DeBeers debuted a new slogan: “A diamond is forever,” a phrase that has come to be so entrenched in the English language that few remember that it started as an advertisement. The campaign focused on engagement rings, and how diamonds are the best choice since they are so durable and long-lasting. The campaign was massively successful and led to the worldwide popularity of having diamonds in engagement rings. Luckily, researchers were able to find more sources for mining, and the industry has continued to grow right through to today.
The renewed interest led to even further advancements in cutting and producing stones to enhance their beauty and make them more flexible as jewellery pieces. Now, there is no end to the options when it comes to shapes and sizes, and diamonds can be custom-cut to fit all manner of jewellery and apparel.
Depletion
Unfortunately, there is genuine concern that the world’s diamond deposits may soon be gone. There are fewer diamonds to be found and even fewer pure white diamonds. Much of what is mined now has impurities that are less valuable than pure stones. There may be an undiscovered deposit left somewhere in the world, but sadly it’s only a matter of time before diamonds can no longer be found by digging.
The Journey to Jewellery: Cutting, Polishing, and Grading
Once mined, rough diamonds undergo a meticulous process of cutting and polishing to reveal their true beauty. The ‘cut’ of a diamond significantly impacts its brilliance and is a critical factor in its value. The grading of diamonds based on the 4Cs—Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat Weight—allows for a standardized evaluation, with white diamonds being prized for their lack of colour and exceptional clarity.
White Diamonds in Pop Culture and Beyond
White diamonds have not only been a symbol of wealth and status but have also made their mark in popular culture. From the iconic Marilyn Monroe singing “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” to the timeless elegance of Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” white diamonds have become synonymous with glamour and sophistication.
The Ethical Shift: Towards Sustainable Luxury
In recent years, the diamond industry has faced scrutiny over ethical sourcing and environmental impact. Consumers are increasingly seeking assurance that the diamonds they purchase are conflict-free and sustainably sourced. Australian diamond retailers and consumers alike are now championing the cause for ethical diamond mining, ensuring that the beauty of white diamonds does not come at the cost of human rights or the environment.
The Cultural and Economic Tapestry of White Diamonds in Australia
As we continue our exploration into the history of white diamonds, we delve into the cultural and economic impact these gems have had on Australia, as well as the ethical considerations that are shaping the future of the industry.
Cultural Impact: Diamonds in the Australian Psyche
White diamonds have long been intertwined with Australian culture, symbolizing not only wealth and luxury but also the nation’s resourcefulness and resilience. The discovery of diamonds in Australia has contributed to a sense of national pride, with the Argyle mine becoming synonymous with the country’s rich mineral heritage. The mine’s closure marked the end of an era, but it also highlighted the importance of diamonds in the collective Australian memory.
The cultural significance of white diamonds in Australia extends beyond their economic value. They have become a part of the social fabric, representing milestones such as engagements, weddings, and anniversaries. The allure of white diamonds has been further reinforced by their portrayal in media and popular culture, where they are often associated with success and sophistication.
Economic Role: Diamonds as a Pillar of Prosperity
The economic role of white diamonds in Australia is substantial. The diamond industry has contributed significantly to the nation’s economy, with exports and imports of diamonds amounting to millions of dollars annually. The trade of diamonds has not only generated revenue but also created jobs, supported local communities, and fostered international trade relations.
Despite the closure of the Argyle mine, the diamond industry remains a vital part of Australia’s economy. New mining projects and technological advancements promise to sustain and potentially grow the industry’s economic contribution in the coming years.
The Future of the Diamond Industry: Innovation and Sustainability
Looking ahead, the future of the diamond industry in Australia appears promising. Innovations in mining technology and the discovery of new deposits are likely to drive the industry forward. Additionally, the growing demand for ethical and sustainable practices is shaping the way diamonds are mined and sold.
The rise of lab-grown diamonds presents an alternative that addresses environmental and ethical concerns, potentially transforming the industry and consumer preferences. As the world becomes more conscious of the impact of mining on the planet, the diamond industry in Australia is poised to adapt and evolve.
Where to buy white diamonds
Diamonds have become an enduring symbol of love and commitment to marriage, and their brilliance and sparkle have been creating awe and wonder for thousands of years. For a wide range of white diamonds, along with other stunning diamonds, visit Australian Diamond Brokers.
by Australian Diamond Brokers : August 22nd 2016 Come visit our store or browse our website to find out more.