Jan 16, 2025

What is a Raw Diamond?

Raw diamonds, also known as rough diamonds, are uncut and unpolished stones that retain their natural form as they are found in nature. These diamonds have not undergone the traditional cutting and polishing processes that transform them into the sparkling gemstones commonly seen in fine jewelry. Instead, raw diamonds offer a unique, organic beauty and appeal to those who value individuality and natural aesthetics.

At Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry, established in 1981 and located in the serene Plaza Oaks shopping center, we celebrate all facets of fine jewelry. Raw diamonds, with their distinctive charm and versatility, are a testament to the natural beauty of gemstones.

What Do Raw Diamonds Look Like?

Raw diamonds look entirely different from the cut and polished stones most people associate with fine jewelry. Their natural appearance can be distinguished by the following characteristics:

Shape: Raw diamonds often exhibit irregular, geometric forms such as cubes, octahedrons, or other asymmetrical shapes. Unlike cut diamonds, they lack uniformity and symmetry.
Surface Texture: Their surface may appear frosted, matte, or slightly waxy, lacking the polished sheen of treated diamonds. Some raw diamonds may even show a grainy or rugged exterior.
Color: They come in a range of hues, including colorless, yellow, brown, and rare shades like green, pink, or blue. These natural colors often appear more subdued than those in treated diamonds.
Brilliance: Without facets, raw diamonds do not sparkle or reflect light like cut diamonds. Instead, their beauty lies in their raw, untouched character.

By preserving their natural state, raw diamonds offer a distinctive look that sets them apart from their crafted counterparts.

How to Identify Raw Diamonds

Determining whether a stone is a raw diamond or another type of gemstone requires a careful examination of its properties. Here are ways to confirm its authenticity:

1. Hardness Test

Diamonds are the hardest natural material, ranking 10 on the Mohs scale. A raw diamond can scratch glass or any other gemstone, making this a reliable initial test.

2. Refractive Properties

Diamonds refract light differently from other stones. Holding the stone over text and attempting to read through it will help—if the text is blurry or unreadable, the stone might be a diamond.

3. Crystal Shape

Raw diamonds often form in octahedral shapes (a double pyramid) or cubes, though irregular forms are also common. Recognizing these natural structures can help identify a diamond.

4. Heat Conductivity

Diamonds conduct heat exceptionally well. Specialized diamond testers use this property to distinguish diamonds from lookalikes, such as quartz or moissanite.

5. Professional Verification

For certainty, consult a professional jeweler like Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry. Our experts can assess the stone using specialized tools and expertise.

How Hard Is It to Find Raw Diamonds?

Finding raw diamonds can be challenging due to several factors:

1. Limited Availability in Retail Markets

Raw diamonds are not as widely available as cut and polished diamonds. They are typically sourced directly from diamond mines and are more commonly used in industrial applications than in fine jewelry.

2. Access to Quality Raw Diamonds

The natural form of raw diamonds means that not all stones are suitable for jewelry. Identifying high-quality raw diamonds with the right size, clarity, and shape for aesthetic use can be a meticulous process.

3. Specialized Suppliers

Only select jewelers, such as Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry, offer raw diamonds tailored for fine jewelry. These stones are carefully curated to ensure they meet the expectations of customers seeking unique designs.

While raw diamonds are not impossible to find, their availability is limited compared to cut diamonds, making them a distinctive and prized choice.

Value of Raw Diamonds

Raw diamonds are valued differently from cut diamonds due to their unprocessed nature.

1. Pricing

Raw diamonds are generally less expensive per carat than cut diamonds. This is because they lack the added labor and craftsmanship associated with cutting and polishing.

2. Rarity

While diamonds themselves are not inherently rare, high-quality raw diamonds with desirable size, shape, and color for jewelry purposes can be harder to come by. Unique hues or particularly large raw stones may command higher prices.

3. Comparison to Cut Diamonds

Raw Diamonds: Offer a natural, unique appeal at a more accessible price point.
Cut Diamonds: Cost significantly more due to the added value of precision cutting and polishing to maximize brilliance and fire.

4. Types of Raw Diamonds

Gem-Quality: Suitable for fine jewelry and valued for their appearance.
Industrial-Grade: Often used for tools and machinery due to their hardness.

Why Are Raw Diamonds Valued?

Raw diamonds hold a unique appeal that attracts jewelry lovers looking for something unconventional:

Individuality: Each raw diamond is one-of-a-kind, with its shape, texture, and color offering a personalized touch.
Symbolism: Representing unfiltered beauty and authenticity, raw diamonds are often chosen for meaningful jewelry pieces.
Natural Aesthetic: The unpolished appearance creates a connection to nature, making these stones a favorite for earthy, artistic designs.
Artisan Appeal: Their irregularity inspires creative, handcrafted jewelry that stands out from mass-produced styles.

How Can Raw Diamonds Be Used in Jewelry?

Raw diamonds are incredibly versatile and can be used to create unique and memorable jewelry designs:

1. Engagement Rings

Rustic Designs: Highlight the raw diamond’s natural beauty with textured gold or silver settings.
Minimalist Rings: A single raw diamond in a simple band offers understated elegance.

2. Earrings

Studs: Small raw diamonds make for distinctive, everyday earrings.
Drop Earrings: Larger or irregularly shaped stones create bold, eye-catching designs.

3. Necklaces and Pendants

Solo Pieces: A single raw diamond as a pendant makes a sophisticated statement.
Clusters: Combine raw diamonds in varying sizes for a dramatic effect.

4. Statement Pieces

Cocktail Rings: Large raw diamonds can serve as striking focal points.
Bracelets and Cuffs: Incorporate raw diamonds for artistic and bold accessories.

Raw diamonds bring an element of nature and individuality to fine jewelry, making them an ideal choice for those who value originality and craftsmanship.

Discover Raw Diamonds at Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry

At Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry, we specialize in creating extraordinary pieces featuring raw diamonds. With over 40 years of expertise, we offer personalized consultations to help you find or design a unique piece that celebrates the natural beauty of these remarkable stones.

Contact us today at 2101 W Wadley Suite 31, Midland, Texas 79705, or email Cathy@cathyeastham.com to explore our collection of raw diamond jewelry.