The diamond, a gem of rare beauty and extraordinary hardness, has fascinated mankind for centuries. Its history is steeped in mystery, legends and scientific discoveries that have revealed its extraordinary nature.

Origin and formation

Diamonds form in the depths of the Earth, some 150-200 kilometres below the surface, where extreme temperature and pressure conditions transform carbon into crystals. This process takes place over millions of years, and the diamonds are then brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions.

Unique features

Diamond is known for its exceptional hardness, the highest of all natural substances. This characteristic makes it extremely resistant to scratches and abrasion, making it ideal for industrial and jewellery applications.

In addition to its hardness, diamond is distinguished by its brilliance and fire. Its unique crystal structure allows it to refract and disperse light exceptionally well, creating a sparkling and colourful effect.

The 4Cs of diamond

The quality of a diamond is assessed according to four main characteristics, known as the 4Cs.

Carat: indicates the weight of the diamond. One carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams.
Clarity: assesses the presence of inclusions and imperfections within the diamond.
Colour: the most valuable diamonds are colourless ones, but there are also coloured diamonds, called ‘fancy diamonds’.
Cut: determines the brilliance and focus of the diamond. A well-executed cut maximises the diamond's ability to refract light.

Famous Diamonds

Throughout history, some diamonds have gained worldwide fame for their size, beauty or compelling history. Among the most famous are the Cullinan, the largest rough diamond ever found, and the Koh-i-Noor, a diamond with a history stretching back thousands of years.

Diamond Uses

In addition to jewellery, diamond is used in numerous industrial sectors. Its hardness makes it ideal for cutting tools, drill bits and abrasives. In addition, its optical properties make it useful in laser and optical applications.