Green diamonds are some of the rarest and most valuable gems in the world. They are highly sought after by collectors, investors, and jewelry enthusiasts alike. But what makes green diamonds so special? In this blog post, we will explore the formation, color, famous examples, mining locations, cutting, and caring for green diamonds.

Green diamonds are diamonds that display a natural green color. Unlike other fancy colored diamonds, such as pink or blue, green diamonds are formed due to the presence of naturally occurring radiation, which alters the crystal lattice of the diamond. Green diamonds are extremely rare, with only a small percentage of diamonds exhibiting this natural color. Due to their rarity and beauty, green diamonds are highly prized and can command high prices in the marketplace.

Formation of Green Diamonds

Green diamonds are formed in much the same way as other diamonds, but with the added influence of naturally occurring radiation. The process begins deep beneath the earth's surface, where carbon atoms are subjected to extreme pressure and heat, resulting in the formation of diamond crystals. Green diamonds form when these diamond crystals are exposed to radiation, either from the surrounding rocks or from the decay of uranium and other radioactive elements.

The Color of Green Diamonds

Green diamonds come in a variety of shades and intensities, ranging from light yellow-green to deep forest green. The color of a green diamond is determined by the amount of radiation that the diamond has been exposed to. The more radiation, the more intense the green color. In addition to the natural green color, green diamonds can also display modified green color, which is caused by the presence of other impurities within the diamond crystal.

Famous Green Diamonds

There are several famous green diamonds that have captured the world's attention for their rarity and beauty. One of the most famous is the Dresden Green, a 41-carat green diamond that is the largest and most famous green diamond in the world. Another famous green diamond is the Aurora Green, a 5.03-carat fancy vivid green diamond that sold for $16.8 million at auction in 2016. The Ocean Dream, a 5.5-carat blue-green diamond, is also a famous example of a green diamond.

What sets the Green Diamond Apart from other Fancy Colored Diamonds

Green diamonds are unique among fancy colored diamonds due to the way they are formed. Unlike other fancy colors, which are created by the presence of specific chemical impurities, green diamonds are formed due to the influence of naturally occurring radiation. This gives them a distinctive and rare color, which ranges from light yellow-green to deep forest green. Green diamonds are also highly sought after by collectors and investors due to their rarity, beauty, and unique formation process.

In addition to their unique formation process, green diamonds also tend to have a different distribution of color than other fancy colored diamonds. While other colors may have a more uniform distribution, green diamonds often have a color concentration or "spot" that makes them even more distinctive. This concentration of color can give the diamond a special character and add to its rarity.

Green diamonds are also highly valued due to their scarcity. Only a small percentage of diamonds exhibit natural green color, and even fewer are of gem-quality. This rarity makes green diamonds highly sought after by collectors and investors, and can result in higher prices than other fancy colored diamonds.

Another factor that sets green diamonds apart is their association with royalty and wealth. Many famous green diamonds were owned by royalty, including the Dresden Green, which was owned by the kings of Saxony for over 200 years. This association with royalty adds to the allure and prestige of green diamonds, making them even more desirable.

Overall, green diamonds are a unique and highly prized type of fancy colored diamond. Their distinctive formation process, unusual color distribution, and association with royalty and wealth make them one of the most sought-after and valuable gems in the world.

Green Diamond Mining Locations

Green diamonds are found in several locations around the world, including Australia, Brazil, and Central Africa. The Argyle mine in Western Australia is one of the primary sources of green diamonds, as well as pink and champagne diamonds. The Brazilian state of Bahia is another location where green diamonds are mined, along with other fancy colored diamonds. Green diamonds are also found in the Central African Republic, where they are often referred to as "grass-green diamonds."

The Cut of Green Diamonds

The cut of a green diamond can greatly impact its beauty and value. Diamond cutters use a variety of cutting styles to enhance the natural color and brilliance of green diamonds. Cutting styles include the classic round brilliant cut, as well as fancy cuts such as the emerald cut and the pear cut. The goal of the cutter is to maximize the color and brilliance of the diamond, while also minimizing the loss of weight.

Caring for Green Diamonds

Like all diamonds, green diamonds require proper care and maintenance to ensure their beauty and longevity. To clean a green diamond, use a mild solution of soap and water and a soft-bristled brush. Avoid exposing the diamond to harsh chemicals or high heat, as this can damage the stone. When not being worn, store green diamonds in a secure, dry place, such as a jewelry box or safe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, green diamonds are rare and valuable gems that are highly prized for their natural color and beauty. They are formed due to the presence of naturally occurring radiation, and come in a variety of shades, with their beauty only matched by their immense rarity.  Making them among the most sought-after and rarest of gemstones. Greeb diamonds are a true specialty.