Diamond Pearl Fancy Cut Diamond
Diamond Pearls, a unique item in the diverse universe of diamond products,
blend the properties of a diamond with the unique look and feel of pearls. The
process is not patented, but the secrets of how to perform the process are
carefully guarded.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND CUTTING ISSUES
The diamond pearl grew out of the research and experimentation of De Beers,
which long ago began using a similar process to improve the resistance of
natural stones - getting to the so-called hard-core - for oil drilling bits.
Custodiam then improved upon the process in order to create diamonds with a
rounded and polished look, very much like real sea pearls.
While the details of the treatment process are confidential,
proprietary information, the company has said that the treatment is chemical. It
is, therefore, inexpensive compared to mechanical treatment processes, and the
resulting product is close to the original shape of the rough. The range of
colors varies from pale to dark gray, with white, light yellow, green and light
brown shades very common. The usual fire and brilliance of diamonds are
transformed in the diamond pearl to a soft, silky surface sheen.
Rough needed to create the pearls is not gem quality. Transparent stones are not
used because they are more expensive and the pearls do not need to be
transparent. Typical rough is opaque but strong, with fancy colors preferred.
Despite the pearly appearance of the resulting stones, they maintain advantages
over traditional pearls, both natural and cultured, including hardness,
stability of color, and resistance to pollution and acids. The company stresses
the eternal quality of Diamond Pearls, as they are, like other diamonds,
"forever."
MARKETS AND MARKETING
At present, the company isn't focusing on marketing the diamond pearl.
PRICING AND SUPPLY
In order to price this unique product, the company had to develop a system
of classification based on the large range of qualities and criteria. According
to the company, a 1-carat stone can be sold from about ten to 50 dollars,
according to polish and purity. Sizes range from .50 to 5 carats and up.
WHAT BUYERS SHOULD LOOK FOR
Diamond Pearls can be set as they are or pierced with a hole 0.5 to 1 mm in
diameter or larger for use in necklaces or bracelets. Cabochon stones are
also available in the full range of qualities and colors only Ahandful of
designers is using diamond pearls in collections with original styles that
appear in retail stores throughout the world.