Are Diamonds Truly Rare? Debunking Common Diamond Myths
Diamonds have been associated for a long time with strength, love and class. Over the years, they’ve been treasured as heirlooms and included within engagement rings to serve as a sign of unbreakable commitment. Yet, despite their awe-inspiring appeal and popularity, a lot of people have a question: Are diamonds rare?
The answer may surprise you. Although diamonds are undeniably beautiful and beloved, the idea that they are one of the rarest gemstones in the world is, in fact, a myth. At Nature Sparkle, we believe in informed, transparent shopping—and that begins with demystifying long-held beliefs.
Are Diamonds Rare? The Truth Revealed
Let’s start in the right direction: diamonds are not all that common.
Real diamonds, whether mined out of the ground or cultivated in a laboratory, are made from carbon, which is one of the most abundant elements in the world. Diamonds that are rough, specifically, are quite commonly contrasted with other gemstones. Although the majority of rough diamonds are of high quality, the number of diamonds in the world is greater than people think.
What is the reason why many people think that diamonds are rare? The answer lies in the perception. Diamonds of high-quality, jewelry-grade (those that have excellent clarity, colour, as well as cut) are rarer than diamonds of industrial grade. However, even so, they aren’t uncommon. Over 133 million carats of jewelry-grade diamonds are sold globally each year, making them far more accessible than their reputation implies.
How Rare Are Diamonds Compared to Other Gemstones?
Diamonds aren’t the most rare gemstones, what ones are?
There are many gems that are much rarer and more valuable than diamonds. Let’s look at a few of them:
- Benitoite: It is found just at San Benito, California. This blue gem is coveted by its bright light reflecting brilliance and the fire it produces.
- Alexandrite: Famous for its ability to change colour. Alexandrite is extremely rare and is mainly sourced from a handful of locations.
- Emeralds: Known for their deep green hues, emeralds are rarer than diamonds, especially in high-quality form.
- Burma Ruby: Originated exclusively from Myanmar. These rubies stand out due to their iron content being low and the deep, vibrant colour.
- Kashmir Sapphire: The production of Kashmir Sapphire has been stopped since 1929; gemstones are now extremely scarce and are mostly found in collections of antiques.
Compared to these gems, the answer to how rare diamonds are becomes clearer: not very.
Why Diamonds Are Still Valuable
If diamond rarity is a fable, then why are diamonds so important?
Diamonds are among the most durable natural substances on Earth and are therefore ideal for everyday wear. They are resistant to scratches and keep their brilliance while requiring minimal maintenance. Beyond jewelry, diamonds can be found in useful applications in the fields of technology and industry because of their strength.
The most important thing is that diamonds are distinctive. They are not alike, reflecting the uniqueness of the individuals and stories they tell.
Common Myths About Diamond Rarity
Let’s debunk some of the most enduring myths that persist to cloud the debate about diamonds.
Myth: Mined Diamonds Are Rarer Than Lab-Grown Diamonds
It’s not true at all. In reality, the number of mined diamonds is higher in the market than lab-grown ones. In the year 2019, the production of 142 million carats of diamonds were mined, and only 7 million diamonds from lab-grown were created in 2020. Although lab-grown diamonds are faster to create, the idea that they are less valuable is more based on tradition rather than reality.
Myth: Diamonds Are Expensive Because They’re Rare
Price is influenced by demand and supply control, but rather than the rarity of diamonds. The major players in the industry have controlled the supply of diamonds to keep prices high. This has more to do with the manipulation of the market rather than genuine scarcity.
Myth: There Aren’t Many Diamonds Left
It’s not right again. A total of 1.2 billion diamonds are still in reserves around the world. Researchers estimate that over one quadrillion tonnes of diamonds are hidden beneath the Earth’s surface. This is a lot more than what was previously thought.
Myth: Bigger Carat Equals More Value
Carat weight alone doesn’t determine value. A diamond that weighs 4 carats with poor clarity and colour is lower in value than a perfect one-carat diamond. The quality of the stone is more important than its size.
Myth: Lab-Grown Diamonds Aren’t Valuable
Diamonds grown in labs are less expensive but are just as durable and stunning as the mined diamonds. Their value lies in their durability, quality and the fact that they’re chemically similar to diamonds mined.
Conclusion: Rethinking What Makes a Diamond Valuable
So, are diamonds rare? It’s not true, at least not the way that many people think. The myth of diamond rarity has been shaped by tradition, marketing, and industry control more than actual supply.
We at Nature Sparkle value transparency, just as we love beauty. If you decide to go with the natural or laboratory-grown diamond, the choice should be one that resonates with your personality, not old-fashioned myths. Check out our collection of timeless pieces and find a diamond that is as unique as the story you tell.