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How Are Brown Diamonds Formed?

By:  Myra S.

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How Are Brown Diamonds Formed

If you find that your style is usually characterised by a blend of modern elegance and unconventional flair, a brown diamond is the ideal gem to complement your fashion-forward tastes.

Join us today as we explain the formation of this wonderful gemstone and discuss its colour and popularity. As you learn all about the natural formation of brown diamonds, we’re sure you’ll be eager to add it to your jewellery box. So, while you’re at it, do cheque out this brown diamond jewellery collection and treat yourself to your favourites.

About Brown Diamonds

Bold yet sophisticated, this gem is greatly desired by people all over the globe. The unique earthy colour of the brown diamond has made it a popular symbol of humility, harmony, stability, confidence and dependability. This, along with its superior durability, has caused the stone to gain quite a large fanbase that doesn’t seem to be declining anytime soon.

How Are Brown Diamonds Formed?

Curious to know how and when coffee diamonds were formed? Or have you ever found yourself wondering, when were diamonds formed? Well, both have the same answer—they were formed millions of years ago.

Brown diamonds are created deep within the earth’s crust through the modification of graphite – a type of crystalline carbon. This happens when the element is exposed to extreme heat and pressure over an extended period of time. While this process is similar to the formation of colourless diamonds, there’s one thing that sets brown diamonds apart. Let’s learn more about it below.

How Do Brown Diamonds Get Their Colour

When the amount of pressure present within the earth’s crust exceeds a certain limit, it causes movement in the diamond’s chemical structure. This creates irregularities within the stone’s crystal lattice which, in turn, results in the gem’s distinct hue. Alternatively, the stone’s colour can also be caused by the nitrogen, hydrogen and nickel present within its structure.

Unlike colourless diamonds, which form in more stable environments, brown diamonds are often found in volcanic pipes, where they’ve been brought to the surface by ancient volcanic eruptions.

Where Are Brown Diamonds Found?

Brown diamonds are primarily found in a few key locations around the world, each with its own rich geological history. The most notable sources are in Australia, particularly the Argyle mine, which has been famous for producing a significant portion of the world’s brown diamonds. While the Argyle mine closed in 2020, its legacy continues to influence the brown diamond market. Other notable deposits are in South Africa, Botswana and parts of Russia, where the unique conditions deep within the earth’s crust allow these diamonds to form. Each of these regions boasts its own distinct characteristics, from the rich, chocolatey tones of Australian diamonds to the lighter, warmer hues found in Africa. This global distribution makes brown diamonds not only rare but also a fascinating reflection of the diverse forces of nature at play beneath the earth’s surface.

Conclusion

The formation of brown diamonds is a captivating journey that begins deep within the earth’s mantle, where extreme pressure and heat transform carbon into the stunning gems we see today. Their unique colour, ranging from soft hues to deeper, richer tones, comes from natural irregularities during their creation. This remarkable natural process and the gorgeous hues make brown diamonds not only beautiful but also a sought-after and special addition to any collection. Want more answers to the question, what is a brown diamond? Well, Angara has all the details you’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are brown diamonds rare?

While brown diamonds are more abundant than some other coloured diamonds, they are still considered rare, especially in the deeper, richer colour tones. Their unique formation process and natural colour variations make each brown diamond a special find.

2. Are brown diamonds more affordable than other coloured diamonds?

Yes, brown diamonds are typically more affordable than rarer coloured diamonds due to their abundance. However, their price can vary based on factors such as colour intensity and quality.

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