Diamonds have long been regarded as the epitome of luxury and elegance. These precious gemstones are not only valued for their beauty but also for the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating exquisite diamond jewellery. Let’s explore the journey of a diamond from its initial discovery in a mine to its transformation into a dazzling piece of jewellery.
Diamond Mining
The journey of a diamond begins deep within the Earth’s crust, where carbon atoms undergo intense heat and pressure over millions of years. Diamond mines, both open-pit and underground, are established to extract these precious stones. Miners employ various techniques, including blasting and excavation, to access diamond-rich ore bodies. Once extracted, the ore is carefully processed to separate the diamonds from the surrounding rock and dirt.
Sorting and Grading
After the rough diamonds are extracted, they go through a meticulous sorting and grading process. Trained professionals examine each diamond, evaluating its size, shape, clarity, colour, and overall quality. This process ensures that each diamond is classified according to international standards, such as the 4Cs (carat weight, cut, clarity, and colour). The grading helps determine the potential value and best use for each diamond.
Diamond Cutting and Shaping
Diamond cutting is an art form that requires precision and expertise. Our skilled diamond cutters carefully analyse each rough stone, considering its unique characteristics, in order to maximise its brilliance and beauty. Our experts mark the diamonds and determine the optimal shape and facets that will enhance their sparkle. Using specialised tools and techniques, the cutter skilfully transforms the rough diamond into a polished gemstone, revealing its hidden brilliance.
Designing the Jewellery Piece
Once the diamonds are cut and polished, they are ready to be transformed into stunning pieces of jewellery. Our designers work closely with gemologists and artisans to conceptualise and create unique designs that showcase the beauty of the diamonds. Whether it’s a pendant, ring, bracelet, or earring, the design process involves meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship.
The Craft of Setting
The design concept is brought to life through metalwork and setting. Our highly skilled jewellers work with precious metals, such as gold, platinum, or silver, to craft the framework for the jewellery piece. The metal is shaped, soldered, and polished to create the desired structure. Once the metalwork is complete, the diamonds are carefully set into the piece. Various setting techniques, including prong, bezel, or pavé, are employed to secure the diamonds in place, ensuring both aesthetics and durability.
Do you have a particular brand or design in mind?
You can search for a diamond that is perfect for you using our Search your Diamond tool on our website. Or design your own one-off bespoke diamond piece with our help, we love making custom jewellery contact us to learn more about what we can offer you.