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Natural diamonds have always been hyped, from ancient royalty where it adorned the finest of jewels to modern pop culture where singers have used it as their muse countless times. But have you ever stopped and wondered how are natural diamonds formed? 

These shimmering wonders go beyond being symbols of luxury and love, they are geological marvels that take millions, sometimes billions, of years to form. From deep within the Earth’s mantle to the celestial meteorites, the expanse of a diamond’s journey is nothing short of miraculous.

Let’s explore what is a natural diamond, what is real diamond, and the fascinating processes that bring them to the surface.

What Is a Natural Diamond?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how are natural diamonds formed, let’s talk about what is a natural diamond. Real diamonds are pure carbon – yes, the same element found in graphite (the stuff in your pencil) but arranged in a way that makes them the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. This unmatched hardness and brilliance is what make real natural diamonds one of the most sought-after gemstones. Their true uniqueness lies in their formation process that only nature can provide.

How Are Natural Diamonds Formed?

The creation of natural diamonds takes place under intense conditions. How are natural diamonds formed? Let’s break down the most fascinating ways:

The Natural Formation Process – Deep Inside the Earth

In the Earth’s mantle, about 140 to 190 kilometres beneath the surface, carbon atoms are subjected to immense pressure (45,000 times the atmospheric pressure) and extreme temperatures (1,000–1,300 degrees Celsius). This allows them to bond in a crystal lattice, forming real natural diamonds.

    Tectonic Plate
    Movement

    When tectonic plates shift and collide, they create enormous pressure, pushing carbon deposits deep into the Earth where they crystallise into natural diamonds over time.

    meteorite impact

    Meteorite Impact

    Meteorite crashes create sudden intense heat and pressure, forming tiny but exceptionally rare real diamonds.

    From Mantle to Surface – How Diamonds Make the Journey Up

    Kimberlite pipes act as natural elevators during volcanic eruptions, transporting natural diamonds from the mantle to surface. Only specific eruptions carry them safely. Rivers then sweep and deposit these gems through erosion.

    Are Diamonds Made from Coal?

    We’ve all heard, “A diamond is just a piece of coal that did well under pressure.” Real diamonds are NOT made from coal. Coal forms from plant matter near surface while natural diamonds predate plants, created from pure carbon deep underground over billions of years.

    Myths & Misconceptions about Natural Diamonds

    Common myths confuse real diamond origins and value.

    • “Diamonds come from coal”

    False. Coal forms near surface from plants; natural diamonds predate vegetation, born from pure carbon deep underground.

    • “Lab diamonds = real natural diamonds”

    Lab stones mimic appearance but lack geological history and rarity. Buy real diamonds for authentic Earth story.

    • “Bigger = better”

    Quality (4Cs) matters more than size for brilliance and value.

    • “All diamonds identical”

    Each natural diamond carries unique inclusions from its billion-year journey.

    Why This Journey Makes Diamonds Unique & Valuable

    The epic voyage creates irreplaceable natural diamonds.

    • Billion-year formation: Extreme mantle conditions yield unmatched hardness (10 on Mohs scale).
    • Unique fingerprints: Inclusions reveal individual histories – pressure marks, growth zones, cosmic origins.
    • Rarity factor: Only 1 in 1,000 rough diamonds becomes gem-quality real diamond.
    • Heirloom status: Natural diamonds appreciate over time, unlike lab alternatives.

    Exquisite natural diamond jewellery like natural diamond ring or natural diamond earring are timeless investments celebrating nature’s artistry.

    Conclusion

    Natural diamonds are spectacular creations forged over eons in extreme conditions. Explore Tanishq’s natural diamonds collection – timeless designs celebrating nature’s brilliance.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes, natural diamonds can be removed from old settings and reset into new jewellery. Professional jewellers safely repurpose them while preserving their unique characteristics.

    Clarity grades range from Flawless (no inclusions visible under 10x magnification) to Included (visible flaws). Higher grades command premium prices due to rarity.

    No, natural diamonds maintain brilliance indefinitely with proper care. Regular cleaning prevents dirt buildup that temporarily dulls their fire and scintillation.