Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but quality, colored gemstones add a luxury vibe to any woman’s outfit. Diamonds are classic but not all diamonds are that original or rare. It is no secret that diamonds are also easily available within a strictly controlled market. Recent market research has also shown that a large population of women have caught on to the trend and are currently looking to get their hands on unique emerald, sapphire, and ruby. To learn more about the differences between diamonds vs. gemstones, here is what you need to know.
Are Diamonds Gemstones?
Yes, diamonds are considered gemstones that fall under the same category. Similar gemstones are naturally-formed crystals that are produced from elements or compounds. However, what makes diamonds different is due to the fact that they are formed from just one element which is high-pressured carbon. For other gemstones, they are comprised of two or more elements.
How Diamonds and Other Gemstones Form
Gemstones are formed in the crust of the earth, approximately 3 to 25 miles underneath the surface. Diamonds, on the other hand, are formed much deeper underneath the surface, roughly 100 miles or below. This makes diamonds truly precious. The earth has three different types of rocks on its crust which include igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Each segment of rock is where different types of gemstones are formed.
How Gemstones Form in Igneous Rock
Igneous rocks form gemstones in two ways. They can do it through either crystallization or cooling of magma beneath the surface of the earth. When lava flows to the surface of the earth from a volcanic eruption or extrusive, gemstones can also form. The longer the time that hot molten rock takes to cool and solidify, the larger the crystals will be. Some of the gemstones that form in Igneous rocks include emeralds, diamonds, topazes, and garnets.
How Gemstones Form in Metamorphic Rock
When heat and pressure change igneous or sedimentary rocks, gemstones are formed in metamorphic rock. The immense pressure forms new rocks when there are new minerals present. Gemstones that form in metamorphic rock are ruby, jade, turquoise, and sapphire.
Are Gemstones Cheaper Than Diamonds?
Diamonds are one of the most precious rocks of the earth and they are highly sought-after by the consumer market. Diamonds that are near colorless can reach a price of about $10,000 per carat. This pricing is derived according to market demand as the supply of diamonds is tightly controlled. Gemstones respond to normal market pressures, thus their prices fluctuate according to demand and supply. Due to this fact, gemstones are much less expensive as compared to diamonds. Diamonds are also much more durable as compared to any other gemstone. Hence, they are often sought by consumers who are looking for long-lasting stones. When built into jewelry, diamonds make a timeless gift that can be passed on from one generation to another due to their enduring nature. Even so, both diamonds and gemstones make stunning jewelry pieces that are perfect for keepsake or as a gift for a special occasion.