POPULAR MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT DIAMONDS

Diamonds are one of the most popular precious stones in the world. They are also one of the most misunderstood. Popular misconceptions abound regarding these sparkling wonders. When it comes to diamonds, Hamra Jewelers knows how to separate fact from fiction. Our experts are here to debunk six of the most popular misconceptions about diamonds.

This is perhaps the most prevalent misconception about diamonds. Most people think that diamonds are super-heated pieces of coal. While the image of a lump of coal as the caterpillar to the diamond's butterfly is a poetic one, it isn't true. Diamonds are made of carbon, and diamonds are often found in coal deposits and mines, which is why the two of them are so often confused as being the same.

Diamonds are valuable and beautiful. They are, however, one of the most common precious stones in the world. Compared to other colored gemstones, diamonds are much easier to find. Consider just how widespread diamond jewelry is: How could diamonds be considered rare when millions of married couples have a diamond to call their own?

This isn't to say that diamonds aren't highly desirable and valuable. It just means that unlike other precious materials, diamonds don't derive their value from scarcity.

Diamonds are the hardest known naturally occurring substances in the world. They can cut away at almost anything. That doesn't make them invulnerable to wear ant tear, however. Just because they are incredibly hard doesn't mean they can shake off damage like any other natural substance. Diamonds can get chipped, broken or damaged if they are handled inappropriately.

Bigger isn't always better. While a big rock can make a big impression, that doesn't mean it is more valuable than other diamonds. A diamond's worth is judged from a variety of factors: while size does matter, so does the cut, clarity and color of the stone. A big diamond could end up being worth less than smaller diamonds if it has poor color and clarity. 

Another popular misconception about a diamond's worth is based on its facets. It is a popular notion that the more facets a diamond has the more value it holds. This isn't true. This idea stems from the misconception that a diamond's facets are responsible for its brilliance. Facets increase the refractive index of a stone, so while they may contribute to a stone's overall brilliance, they aren't the only factor. The cut of the stone and how it has been treated by gem cutters makes a big difference. It doesn't matter how many facets a diamond has if it is cut poorly.

It is hard to imagine, but diamond rings weren't always the go to choice for engagements. Prior to the 20th century, the notion of giving your beloved a diamond ring to signal your intent to marry them was NOT commonplace. It is only within the last 100+ years that the idea that diamonds are the traditional stones for marriages has taken hold in our culture.