Diamonds or Gemstones: Is There a Difference?

Diamonds are a type of gemstone; however they are the only gems formed from a single element, i.e. carbon. All other gemstones are formed from a combination of two or more elements. Diamonds are also the hardest known substance found naturally on earth, making them extra unique.

Natural vs Treated Colours
Most natural coloured diamonds get their colours when trace elements interact with the carbon atoms when the diamonds are being formed. The presence of chemical elements such as nitrogen, sulphur and boron gives natural coloured diamonds their shades of yellow, green and blue.

With pink diamonds on the other hand, the colour is caused by distortions in the diamond’s crystal lattice due to intense heat and non-isotropic stress (pressure from all directions).

On the other hand, some coloured diamonds are treated to artificially enhance their colours. These diamonds undergo a process known as HPHT – high pressure, high temperature – to enhance their colours and make them more distinct. They get labelled as “HPHT annealed” or “artificially irradiated” by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

Diamonds that have been colour-enhanced are of lower value since their natural state has been altered with a treatment that is not natural. Colour enhancements can also wear out over time.