Diamond (gemstone)

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A diamond is a gemstone formed by cutting a raw diamond. Diamonds have high monetary value as one of the best-known and most sought-after gems, and they have been used as decorative items since ancient times. The hardness of a diamond and its high dispersion of light—giving a diamond its characteristic "fire"—make it useful for industrial applications and desirable as jewelry. Diamonds are such a highly traded commodity that multiple organizations have been created for grading and certifying them based on the "four Cs", which are color, cut, clarity, and carat. Other characteristics, such as presence or lack of fluorescence, also affect the desirability and thus the value of a diamond used for jewelry. Diamonds are often used in engagement rings. The practice is documented among European aristocracy as early as the 15th century, though ruby and sapphire were more desirable gemstones. The modern popularity of diamonds was largely created by De Beers Mining Company, which established the...

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