Black diamond or carbonado are the most expensive diamonds in the world

History and origin

There are two versions about the origin of black diamond: terrestrial and cosmic.

It is believed that the mineral came to Earth with a giant asteroid more than a billion years ago. At that time, South America and Africa were a single territory. After the break, the new continents were separated by water. The version is supported by deposits of the mineral in Brazil and West Africa, plus the peculiarities of its occurrence. The mineral is not found in kimberlite pipes, where other diamonds are mined. It doesn't lie that deep.

Black brilliant

American scientists found in it nitrogen, titanium, and other compounds found in meteorites. Only some characteristics of a black gem make it similar to earthly diamonds.

Another point of view: black natural diamonds are formed in the same way as colored transparent stones, but under different conditions. This is confirmed by crystals from alluvial (water) sediments and rocks from the Avachinskaya Sopka in Kamchatka.

The name of the stone was given by Brazilian miners who discovered it at the end of the 19th century. The pristine black diamond is more reminiscent of coal, for which it was dubbed carbonado, that is, “carbonaceous” in translation from Portuguese.

Place of extraction

There are only a few places on our planet where black diamonds have been found. These are some regions of Brazil and the Central African Republic. It is noteworthy that the rare mineral is found precisely in the part where the African and South American continents were once united.

A similar mineral is also mined in Kamchatka.

It is quite possible that there are other places on the planet where unusual diamonds are concentrated, but since the technology for exploring their deposits does not yet exist, they remain unfound.

Physicochemical characteristics

The physical characteristics of the stone are determined by the porous structure and inclusions of graphite, hematite and magnetite. Their combination gives opacity, blackness, and increased strength.

Black diamonds

The stone is compared with outwardly similar minerals: black smooth specimens imitate obsidian, gray porous specimens resemble pumice. The raw material is difficult to polish and cut. The properties of carbonado black diamond are more in demand by industry.

Compatibility with other stones

Since a black diamond is associated with the fire element, it must be combined with “fire” gems. The ideal combination is diamonds of different colors. As a rule, black stones are combined with transparent or colored ones.

It is better not to combine dark diamond with minerals that are associated with the elements of water or earth. Fire and water will destroy each other and harm their owner; fire and earth also conflict, which negatively affects a person’s well-being.

Important! When choosing successful combinations, you need to take into account many nuances, so it is better to contact a professional astrologer or lithotherapist.

Varieties and colors

The concept of “black diamond” implies the following categories:

• carbonado (from the Latin carbon - coal);

  
  Carbonado

• pique;

  
  Pique

• dark diamond chips.

The last type is diamond processing waste.

Carbonado

Description of carbonado: opaque amorphous porous formation of dark green or gray-black color with a matte sheen. “Grains”-crystallites randomly welded together by a silicon base create a structure that absorbs light instead of reflecting it. There is no talk of any shine.

The color is given by inclusions of magnetite, hematite and graphite; nitrogen and hydrogen may be present.

Carbonado is hard, but fragile; it breaks easily when cut; porosity and inclusions prevent polishing. Therefore, until the 1950s, it was used as a technical diamond and was not of interest to jewelers.

The development of technology eliminated the problem: specialists turned carbonado into a jewelry stone. Initially, we experimented with uniformly colored large specimens (no smaller than 10 carats). Today, jewelry with one-carat stones is common. But only highly qualified craftsmen can process the mineral.

Pique

Pique (French Pique) is a natural black single crystal with a structure similar to a classic diamond.

The color is created by graphite dust particles and other impurities. A cut pique diamond is a fancy diamond, that is, equal to colored natural diamonds. But a rare specimen has a natural black color, so crystals of a brown, dark gray or green hue also fall into this category.

Uniformly colored specimens are used as jewelry. Opaque matte, without the shine required for diamonds, the stones stand out from the rest of their “brothers”.

Combination

Black diamond belongs to the element of Fire. Therefore, it is not recommended to wear it with stones from the Water and Earth class. Fire-water combinations will negate the benefits that both minerals can bring. A fire-earth pair will not be the most intelligent. An earthly gem will be suppressed by a representative of the fire element, which will cause discomfort for the owner of such a tandem.

The research activities of Pavel Globa made it possible to identify a rather poor combination of carbonado and topaz. It is better not to combine conflicting stones. The best option would be a combination of diamonds that optimally suit each other in all respects.

Black diamond in jewelry.

The mineral began to be used recently. Most often it can be seen in frames made of gold or black platinum. The crystal can be presented in combination with a scattering of diamonds in a contrasting color. The inserts will not have a significant impact on the final cost of the product.

In the fashion world, the black diamond was first used by Fawaz Gruosi. The designer bought a batch of crystals for little money to create jewelry from the stones. The novelty turned out to be in demand in society. The specialist founded a jewelry factory, the symbol of which was the black diamond. The mineral multiplied its value approximately twenty times in two years. De Grisogono is now a fashion-defining mystery stone brand.

Black diamond prices vary based on various factors. The most valuable are pique diamonds, which have a special certificate, as well as black diamonds of a personal design. Such jewelry and stones can be purchased at auction. Carbonado is more common in the jewelry industry. Jewelry made from this stone also has different prices.

The cheapest ring or earrings with a black diamond will cost the wearer at least 15,000 rubles. The bracelet will not cost less than 16,000 rubles. The cheapest brooches are 12,000 rubles. A suspension with carbonado will cost at least 8,000 rubles.

Diamonds look most impressive when set in white gold. Black diamonds come in a triangular cut with 145 facets. The technology allows you to carefully process the porous mineral.

Medicinal properties

Healers claim that the stone has healing properties:

• treats the psyche in all directions;
• normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system;
• relieves alcohol and nicotine addiction;
• relieves fever;
• neutralizes infection;
• facilitates the course of the disease.

Black brilliant

The stone helps the stronger half: a man's ring or ring slows down aging, maintains potency and sexuality. For ladies, earrings have a healing effect.

Cutting colored diamonds

Fancy diamonds are difficult to cut, and they do not have the sparkle of a simple colorless mineral. The approach to cutting unusual gems is so demanding that few jewelers dare to work with them. As a rule, only the pavilion of the diamond is cut, and the upper part is left absolutely smooth. Due to this, the effect of internal glow is achieved. This stone looks very beautiful and unusual. Natural fancy color is extremely rare, so 99% of all stones on the jewelry market are refined diamonds. Such stones are much cheaper. A genuine fancy diamond is EGL, HRD or GIA certified.

Magic properties

A black stone attracts the attention of sorcerers or people interested in the paranormal. An additional argument is the cosmic origin of the mineral. Although fantasy writers associate it with the dark spirits of the Earth.

• Black diamonds in jewelry put a barrier to external negativity (evil eye, damage, problems). They strengthen the owner spiritually and physically, making him alert.
• The stone symbolizes leadership, instilling in a person the necessary qualities. The energy of crystals activates male character traits: perseverance, endurance, determination, activity. Teaches you to win and get out of problematic situations with dignity.
• The power of the mineral is useful for couples who want to maintain the intensity of sensuality.

The magic will be maximum if the amulet is adjacent to the skin, and the left ring finger is decorated with a ring.

The magical properties of a diamond as a family jewel accumulate. The strongest specimens are inherited. If the stone is new - purchased personally or given as a gift, it takes time to establish contact.

The meaning of a stone for a person is determined by the character of the owner. The messenger of the cosmos brings happiness to people with pure intentions. Black natural diamonds are the kind of stones that do not accept deception or betrayal and other vices. The line of fate of such an owner may break off or go in the wrong direction.

Use in magic

A black diamond is an item necessary for those with abilities in the field of the occult. Previously, it was believed that the nugget endowed its bearer with special powers, which were not possible to renounce. You can use the power you gain to protect yourself from danger.

Carbonado has the following magical properties:

1. Providing protection from any kind of negativity, evil eye and damage. Jewelry with black diamonds can strengthen the wearer’s fortitude and health. The owner of such jewelry becomes more careful and circumspect.
2. Preserving the passion between couples in love.
3. Development of leadership abilities, as well as activity, resilience, perseverance and determination.

It takes a long time for a black diamond to get used to its owner. The stone begins to interact with the wearer after a few months. The gem loves truth, loyalty and honor. People with dirty intentions can attract a lot of trouble by trying to tame the mineral.

A mysterious mineral is gaining strength, changing owners. Over time, it gains the strength of its previous carriers, so the inherited diamond is a powerful artifact. It is advisable to achieve direct contact with the skin. A good option would be to wear a ring with such a diamond.

Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?

Astrologers have found that the stone suits several zodiac signs to varying degrees. His favorites are representatives of the element of Fire. But zodiac compatibility is not enough: the black mineral does not tolerate dishonesty. If this quality dominates, it is better not to count on the help of a magician stone.

(“+++” – fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated)

Where is it used?

The scope of application of black diamonds is determined by their type and degree of processing.

Jewelry

Black diamonds are the youngest of gemstones, only a few decades old.

Silver ring with black diamond

Story

The “godfather” of the stone was jewelry designer Fawaz Gruosi. Having bought a batch of nondescript specimens for almost nothing, he created jewelry from them. The accessories flew away instantly, making the gem a new favorite. Fawaz founded the De Grisogono jewelry house, the “face” of which was a black mysterious diamond. The cost of the stone has increased 20–30 times in a couple of years.

Today the De Grisogono brand is a trendsetter in this segment.

Criteria for evaluation

The stone is opaque, so the 3C rule applies to it, not the 4C: weight, color, cut. Processing is also assessed differently: for a crystal to begin to shine, it is not the type of cut of the diamonds that matters, but the number of polished areas. For example, the Amsterdam diamond, in contrast to the standard 57 facets, has 145 of them.

The stone is fragile, so a triangular facet is often chosen - simple but effective. Many famous black diamonds have it, including the Amsterdam. Even stones with almost absolute clarity (SI and I) are treated with an electric beam to improve color. Premium diamonds are free of voids and are cut and polished to the highest possible standards.

Compatibility

The stones look best in jewelry with yellow or clear diamonds. For products with black diamonds, gold (sometimes black) or platinum is used as a setting. In most jewelry, a large stone is complemented by a scattering of transparent small diamonds. A large black gem does not increase the price of the product too much.

Black Diamond Necklace

A spectacular classic - a black crystal in white gold.

Other areas

Once upon a time, the inhabitants of Brazil polished wood with these stones; they were used to supply drilling rigs when digging the Panama Canal. Today, unevenly colored, highly porous carbonados are used for scientific and technical purposes.

Price

The cost of a first-class black carbonado diamond is $510–650, recolored specimens of average quality are $160–180, small ones cost $16–25 per 1 carat. The price of pique with a GIA - Gemological Institute of America certificate is 1-3 thousand dollars per carat, “personalized specimens” are more expensive.

Physical parameters of the stone

Black diamond has a porous structure. The black color is completely opaque, but the combination of magnetite, graphite and hematite makes the nugget quite durable. This diamond is quite difficult to polish. Giving it the required shape is also quite difficult. Despite this, the parameters of black diamond have a certain value for industrial enterprises.

Unlike other diamonds, a black diamond does not have the play of light. It is not an extremely pure mineral endowed with radiance. It is quite rare to come across transparent specimens that shine and are able to refract the rays of sunlight.

How to spot a fake

Let us clarify: fancy stones, that is, cut pique, are offered only at auctions. Jewelry stores offer processed carbonados (they are cheaper than transparent ones).

There are three methods to give diamonds a natural black color to increase their value: irradiation, firing, and painting. The first time the stones take on a dark, rich green hue. High firing temperature (second method) turns coal into graphite.

Black brilliant

You can identify the origin as follows:

• Examine the stone against the light under an LED lamp: the piqué is opaque, smoky or deep gray. The tinted fake is distinguished by its brownish or green color. In opaque crystals, the shade of color is concentrated at the tip of the edges.
• In treated minerals, graphite inclusions are concentrated just below the surface of the stone, creating a black tint. Dispersion throughout the volume means the natural origin of the stone.
• Under a tenfold magnifying glass, the color of the piqué is uniform; the treated crystal exhibits spotting, variegation, and iridescence of shades.
• A reliable way is to test a sample for electrical conductivity. For transparent and natural black crystals it is the same, but for processed ones it is different. This method is available to specialists.

Technologists have created an artificial black carbonado diamond. The process involves high pressure using nickel as a catalyst.

How to wear and care

Not everyone would risk wearing jewelry with black stones: many people consider them exotic or something reprehensible. The owner (especially the owner) needs to be prepared to become the center of public attention.

Wearing rules

Designers create men's and women's accessories with diamond inserts. The mineral is a godsend for men who do not accept “effeminate” colored or shiny stones. Their choice is rings or a formal tie clip.

Jewelry with black stones makes the owner stand out from the general background. They can be matched with a branded business suit or a chic evening dress. Studs and rings with night-colored droplets are worn during the day; jewelry with larger pieces is suitable for the evening.

A gold engagement ring with black stones is preferred by extraordinary and creative people.

Pendant “Drop Black Diamond”

Rules of care

To clean precious stones, you need a solution of water and ammonia (3:1), a soft brush and a glass container. Cleaning steps:

• put the decoration in hot water to soak;
• transfer to the solution for 55–60 minutes;
• wipe the mineral with a brush;
• dry, polish with suede or other soft cloth.

It is better to give openwork items to a master for cleaning or buy a product for caring for diamond stones.

Additions and recommendations

Famous black diamonds and jewelry with them:

• “Star of Africa” - 202 carats, purchased for $1.2 million;
• "Orlov" - 67.5 carats;
• “Korloff Noir” - 88 carats, owned by the French jeweler Paylasier;
• “Eye of Brahma” - over 67 carats, according to legend, was the eye of a statue in India; stolen and cursed, considered a source of misfortune for the owner, but purchased in 2006 for $352 thousand;
• “Amsterdam” - 33.74 carats, found in Africa, in 2001 it was sold at auction for almost 348 thousand dollars;
• Bahia - 352 carats, found in Brazil, exhibited in 1851;
• "River Styx" - 28.5 carats, from Africa, marquise cut, stolen in 1958.

Fawaz Gruosi owns an amazingly beautiful heart pendant. The weight of the stone is more than 115 carats.

Compatibility in astrological aspect

A black diamond does not go harmoniously with every zodiac sign. For Leos, Aries and Sagittarius, an energetic union with a mineral will have the optimal effect. Diamond belongs to Venus and the Sun, so its bearers can be Libra and Taurus. Success in any endeavors of Capricorn and Cancer will be ensured by a black diamond.

Zodiac signs that should not use the mineral:

1. Geminis are overly influenced by the space stone. Fear and anxiety may develop. The union of Gemini and black diamond can lead to negative consequences for the wearer.
2. Black diamond requires energy, which Aquarius and Pisces do not have. If the stone is worn by representatives of these zodiac signs, feelings of discomfort are expected.
3. Virgos and Scorpios are energetically neutral to the stone. These zodiac signs can wear nugget jewelry under any circumstances.

The incompatibility of a black diamond and the character of its wearer can overshadow any astrological prerequisites. People who are able to conquer the mysterious stone can endow it with the properties of their element. Even the difference between the element of the carrier and the element of the mineral will not become a difficulty. A hardened amulet can act with double efficiency, bringing positive emotions to its owner.

The origin of the mysterious stone, which may have arrived on our planet and outer space, remains a mystery. A black diamond can charm anyone who even looks at it. The gem is able to help its wearer in any endeavor. He will become the optimal friend, assistant, conductor of magical energy and accessory. The power of each element is represented in the form of a specific mineral. The main thing is not to make a mistake in choosing your stone.