Diamond Production Process – From Mine to Jeweler
PostBy Avi Paz Group At 01.08.2010
Diamond ore is sorted by density using X-rays. Before that technology became available, grease belts were used to separate diamonds from the rest of the ore, due to the diamonds' greater tendency than other minerals to stick to grease.
Rough diamonds are then set to be cut as gemstones in the traditional diamond centers of Antwerp, Amsterdam, Johannesburg, New York City, and Tel Aviv, or in the newer cutting centers recently established in China, India, Thailand, Namibia, and Botswana.
Cutting produces the facets associated with a diamond. The angles of the facets maximize light, giving the diamond its greatest possible luster (dispersion of white light). The cutting process can take as much as 50% of a rough diamond's weight.
A number of factors come into play when deciding how a diamond should be cut. X-rays are employed to analyze the stone's crystallographic structure, its hardness and ability to cleave. The diamond's flaws are considered, and the cutter decides which to remove and which can remain. Either a hammer or a diamond saw can be used to split the diamond – the hammer is quicker, but the saw is surer.
A number of institutes in the diamond industry offer courses for diamond cutters, but the bulk and most crucial part of the training for this delicate trade takes place during the cutter's apprenticeship. But what, exactly, is a "diamond cutter?" In fact, diamond cutting has its specialists, and a diamond may get its final cut from many skilled hands: the diamond marker or designer; the diamond sawyer; the diamond cutter or brute; the cross-worker; and the brillianteer.
After the initial cutting, diamonds undergo the polishing stages, usually performed by a technician as the process is a standard one. Polished diamonds are reexamined for flaws, which can be addressed through enhancement techniques or disguised when set in jewelry.
Finally, the polished diamonds are sold on one of the world's 26 registered diamond bourses. Wholesalers and retailers can purchase comparatively small lots of loose diamonds or stones that have already been set in jewelry.
