How are diamonds formed?

 

Diamonds were first formed over 3 billion years ago deep within the Earth’s crust, around 100 miles under the surface where there is intense heat and pressure. The combination of the weight of the overlying rock, the high temperatures and high pressure is what causes diamond crystals on the Earth surface to form. 

It is assumed that this is how all diamonds are formed, but of course we cannot reach this part of the Earth to do scientific tests. 

How diamonds are cut

Diamond cutting is the practice of transforming a diamond into a gem from a rough stone. The process is extremely difficult as it requires specialist knowledge, equipment and techniques. Due to the specialist knowledge and skills required, the cutting process is concentrated in a few cities around the world. 

Diamond cutting is done by cleaving or sawing the diamond with a steel blade or a laser. The rough diamond is usually placed in a wax or cement mold to hold it in place and then is cleaved along its weakest point. If no point of weakness exists, a sawing method is used. As new, better technology becomes available, the process of cutting a diamond is constantly being evolved and improved.

How diamonds are polished 

After the diamond has been cut, the next stage is to create and form the facets of the diamond. The rough diamond is placed on a rotating arm and then is polished using a spinning wheel. This creates the diamond’s smooth and reflective facets. 

This process is then split into a further two steps; blocking and brillianting.

Blocking 
Blocking is where a single cut stone is made by adding eight pavilion mains, eight crowns, one culet and one table facet. This step is important in creating a template for the next stage.

Brillianting 
This is where the brillianter adds to the blocking template, bringing the overall facets to a total of 57 facets. The person who does this has a great responsibility, as it is at this stage that the diamond’s stunning sparkling qualities are determined.

Our diamonds

Here at Cuttings Jewellers and Pawnbrokers, we have a range of stunning diamonds, all of which are beautifully cut. A vast number of diamond jewellery pieces are cut into different shapes, so we have you covered for whatever your preferred shape or style is. 

To shop our diamond jewellery, click here.