Basic Introduction to South African Diamonds
After 1867, the discovery of alluvial sand deposits and significant primary kimberlite pipes made South Africa the world's most important diamond-producing country. Its production has long been among the highest in the world, ushering in a new era for the diamond industry. In 1905, the world's largest kimberlite pipe—the Premier Pipe—was found in Azanian (South Africa), where the largest diamond ever discovered (the Cullinan Diamond) was also found. South Africa is home to the Venetia Diamond Mine, the world's largest and most modern diamond mine. South African diamonds are large and of high quality; 50% of the diamonds are cuttable. Although its production is not as high as countries like Australia, its value has consistently ranked among the top in the world.
Product Characteristics
Diamonds are carbon particles from the mantle of the earth that undergo high temperature and pressure, resulting in crystallization into diamonds. Typically, diamond sources are located within kimberlite pipes that resemble cylindrical columns or have an hourglass shape with a wider top. When these pipes are eroded by external forces, they form alluvial diamond deposits or marine placer deposits. Some kimberlite pipes containing diamonds are typically found on ancient cratons or shields. The formation of diamonds spans over three billion years, with some younger diamonds formed over 70 million years ago. The formation of diamonds requires a long history of condensation before crystallizing. Their melting point is 1878°C, which is 2.5 times that of steel, and their hardness is the highest among all stones.
Historical Folklore
The story of South African diamonds can be traced back to 1870 when a farmer named Adrian van Wyk owned a farm near Kimberley, Northern Cape. Everything began when he discovered his children playing with several diamonds. This event triggered an extraordinary diamond rush. Prospectors from around the world flocked to the area, and the farm gradually disappeared under the red dust raised by treasure hunters frantically digging. A year later, another major discovery was made on Colesberg Kopje, leading to yet another massive rush, the largest of all diamond rushes. The diggers worked independently, and conditions became extremely harsh and dangerous. The mines resembled inverted ant hills, with over 30,000 people constantly digging, moving, and striking rock, with shouts echoing throughout. Only two men, Cecil John Rhodes and Barney Barnato, brought some order to the chaos and amassed great wealth. Diamonds were first transported to the surface through volcanic eruptions and were primarily found within kimberlite pipes or “necks.” As these pipes were formed by ancient volcanic activity, prospectors had to dig as deep as possible to find diamonds, transforming the hill into a hole, now simply known as “The Big Hole.”
Authenticity and Quality Assessment
Assessing the Quality of Diamonds
I. Cut
A well-cut diamond should not only be round but also have 58 clear facets to maximize the reflection of light to the surface, enhancing the brilliance and fire of the diamond. Jewelry experts note: On a diamond certificate, there is usually a comprehensive evaluation of the cut, divided into EX (Excellent), VG (Very Good), and G (Good). The higher the grade, the greater the value.
II. Color
The color of a diamond is best when it is colorless, with this being the most valuable. The value decreases as the yellow tint increases. It is difficult for the average consumer to distinguish between colors with the naked eye. Professional jewelry stores will display wedding rings of various color grades side by side for customers to compare.
III. Clarity
The value of a diamond is determined by the presence of inclusions. Almost every diamond contains inclusions, and fewer inclusions are better. If no inclusions can be seen even with a 40x magnifying glass, the diamond is considered to have the highest clarity grade.
IV. Carat Weight
The weight of a diamond affects its value. Therefore, when purchasing, always have the jeweler measure the diamond's weight on the spot. If the store is unwilling to do so, go elsewhere. The cut, color, clarity, and carat weight of a diamond are equally important factors in determining its value. Therefore, carat weight is not the sole determinant of a diamond's value. A poorly cut, yellowish, and flawed 2-carat diamond may be worth much less than a smaller diamond that is perfectly cut, transparent, and flawless.