rough diamonds

A visual representation of the Diamond Supply Chain Timeline from raw mining to a polished ring.

Diamond Supply Chain Timeline: From Mine to Store

Introduction to the Diamond Supply Chain Timeline Most consumers assume that a gemstone spends several years traveling from a deep mine to a retail display case. While that estimate provides a rough idea, it does not tell the full story of the Diamond Supply Chain Timeline. In fact, the actual labor involved in cutting, polishing, and setting […]

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A high-clarity rough Nigerian phenakite crystal showing a diamond-like luster.

Phenakite vs Diamond: How to Identify the Deceiver

Introduction to Phenakite vs Diamond Rough Nigerian phenakite fools even the most experienced gem lovers. In fact, mineralogists originally named the stone after the Ancient Greek word phénax, meaning “deceiver.” They chose this name because the stone so closely resembles common quartz. However, modern gem dealers often use that nickname for a different reason. Specifically, rough Nigerian

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A rough Octahedral Spinel crystal next to a rough Octahedral Diamond showing identical shapes

Octahedral Spinel and Diamond: Rough Crystal Guide

Introduction When gemologists and jewelry designers handle rough stones straight from the earth, they often face a striking puzzle. Octahedral Spinel and Diamond look remarkably alike. Both crystals grow in the cubic system, forming the same “double-pyramid” shape. Furthermore, both appear in a dazzling range of colors. This visual similarity has caused centuries of confusion. Most famously,

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Small scale laborers engaged in Panna Diamond Mining in India

Panna Diamond Mining: How Small-Scale Miners Find Fortune

Introduction India’s Panna district in Madhya Pradesh stands as one of the world’s few active sources of alluvial diamonds. Here, Panna Diamond Mining is not just an industry; it is a tradition where small-scale miners chase elusive gems through grit and hope. For centuries, these deposits have lured hopeful diggers. Unlike the massive commercial mines in Africa, Panna offers

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Diamond yield comparison between rough and polished diamond

Diamond Yield: How Much Rough Becomes Polished

SummaryDiamond yield shows how much rough stone becomes a polished gem. Understanding diamond yield helps you estimate final weight, maximize value, and avoid mistakes. Introduction Understanding diamond yield is key when buying or cutting rough diamonds. Yield is the percentage of a rough stone that turns into a polished diamond. A 10-carat rough rarely becomes

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