Natural diamonds, these captivating gemstones, have intrigued humans for centuries with their beauty and remarkable scarcity. In this blog, we will delve into their geological origins, the ethical considerations surrounding their sourcing and what sets them apart as some of the rarest treasures on Earth.
The Rarity Factor
To appreciate the annual percentage of diamonds mined, it's crucial to understand their scarcity. Natural diamonds are incredibly rare. Consider this: Only about one in a billion carbon atoms in the Earth's crust is carbon-14, the element responsible for forming diamonds. This means that for every billion carbon atoms, only one will eventually become a natural diamond. This inherent rarity makes every mined diamond a unique and precious find.
The Global Diamond Production
Each year, the world's diamond mines yield a certain percentage of the global diamond production. This production figure varies, influenced by factors such as market demand, technological advancements, and mining efforts. On average, global diamond production hovers around 130 million carats per year.
The Finite Nature of Natural Diamonds
A Finite Natural Resource:
Unlike many other gems, natural diamonds are finite resources. They are created through an intricate process that occurs deep within the Earth's mantle, making their supply limited.
Peaking in 2005:
Global natural diamond recovery reached its peak in 2005, representing the highest point in the extraction of these precious gems. Since then, there has been a significant decline in diamond recovery.
A 30% Decrease:
Over the past 19 years, the annual global natural diamond recovery has decreased by over 30%. This decline underscores the growing rarity of these gems and the challenges associated with their extraction.
The Astonishing Scale of Rarity
A Tiny Annual Harvest:
To grasp the remarkable rarity of natural diamonds, consider this fact: the annual recovery of all natural diamonds, each weighing 1 carat or more, is so minuscule that it can fill just one exercise ball. This astonishing statistic emphasizes how precious and limited these gems truly are.
Size Matters:
Natural diamonds come in various sizes, but the larger ones are especially scarce. Diamonds exceeding one-carat account for a small fraction of all mined diamonds, making them highly sought-after by collectors and connoisseurs.
Responsible Sourcing and Ethical Mining
With increasing awareness of ethical and sustainable sourcing, the diamond industry is striving to ensure that diamonds are mined responsibly, without conflict, and with consideration for environmental and social factors. Initiatives like the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme aim to achieve these goals.
Conclusion
Natural diamonds are not just objects of beauty but also finite treasures of our planet. Their scarcity, coupled with the intriguing statistics about their limited supply, highlights the need for responsible and sustainable practices in the diamond industry. As you admire a natural diamond's sparkle, remember that it is a rare and precious gem, a testament to the Earth's enduring wonders. The journey of a diamond from deep within the Earth to your jewellery box is a testament to both nature's artistry and our responsibility to preserve these treasures for future generations.