Natural Diamonds
Formation: Natural diamonds are created deep within the Earth’s mantle under intense heat and pressure over millions to billions of years. They are formed through natural geological processes.
Extraction: Mined from diamond deposits using traditional mining methods, which involves extracting diamond-containing ore from the Earth’s crust.
Uniqueness: Each natural diamond is unique, bearing distinct characteristics shaped by its geological history. These diamonds may contain inclusions, which are internal features like tiny crystals or minerals.
Lab Grown Diamonds
Creation: Lab-grown diamonds are produced in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technological methods. Common techniques include High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD).
Synthetic Nature: Also known as synthetic or man-made diamonds, they share the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds. They are composed of carbon atoms arranged in the crystal lattice structure characteristic of diamonds.
Sustainability: Lab-grown diamonds are often considered a more sustainable option as they don’t require traditional mining, reducing environmental impact.
Signature Qualities of Diamonds
When looking at a diamond, there are four key things to keep in mind.
Carat: This is a measure of the diamond’s weight. Larger diamonds generally have a higher carat weight.
Colour: Diamonds come in various colours, and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades them on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The yellow hue in diamonds is typically noticeable in the colour range of diamonds graded “J” (near colourless) and beyond.
Clarity: Clarity assesses the presence of any internal flaws (inclusions) or surface blemishes on the diamond. The GIA grades clarity from Flawless (no imperfections visible under 10x magnification) to Included (imperfections visible to the naked eye).
Cut: The cut of a diamond determines how well it reflects light. The GIA grades cut from Excellent to Poor. A well-cut diamond will sparkle more.They offer an ethical choice for those concerned about the environmental and social implications of diamond mining.
Sustainable Craftsmanship for a Lifetime
We are committed to using responsibly sourced materials, including precious stones selected for their unique qualities. Each piece of Altra jewelry is designed to last a lifetime, embodying both strength and elegance,to be cherished down through generations.
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