What is a diamond?

A diamond is made up of Carbon atoms that are linked together.  Although diamonds are said to be pure Carbon, 95% of a diamond is Carbon and 5% trace elements. Other elements that are found in diamonds include Nitrogen, Aluminum, Boron and many others.  

Formation

Diamonds form hundreds of miles below the Earth’s surface under extreme heat and pressure.  The Carbon atoms bond together in an isometrical lattice (exactly the same in all directions) that creates transparent crystals.  The diamond is the hardest material on Earth meaning that only a diamond can scratch another diamond but it does not mean that a diamond is unbreakable.  If a diamond receives impact with enough force at the right angle a diamond can chip or break.  

Diamond is the birthstone of April and the traditional anniversary gift for both 60 and 75 years.

Did you know?

-Although extremely rare on Earth, scientist know that on Uranus and Neptune when it rains it rains diamonds!

-Diamonds are completely unique.  Like a snowflake, no two diamonds are alike.