By:Ryan Fyfe A Diamond is a crystalline form of carbon. A diamonds hardness and high dispersion of light makes it particular useful for industrial applications and in jewelery. Diamonds are specifically renowned as a mineral with superlative physical qualities. Thus making them great abrasives because they can only be scratched by other diamonds. This feature also means they hold a polish extremely well and retain luster. Approximately 120 million carats, 25 000 kilograms of diamond are mined annually. These diamonds have a with a total value of nearly nine billion united states dollars. "diamond", the name, comes from an ancient Greek word that means "impossible to tame". Treasured as a gem ever since their use as religious icons in India almost 2,500 years ago. "Diamond's are a girl's best friend". They have been widely used in drill bits and engraving tools dating back to early human history for their physical properties. Due to improved cutting and polishing techniques the popularity of diamonds has gone up since the early 19th century. Almost 4 times the amount of natural diamonds are produced syntheticly each year. These synthetic diamonds are typically classified with poor-quality specimens and as a result are suitable only for industrial-grade use. The majority of natural diamonds come from central and southern Africa. On the other wise of that though, significant sources of the mineral have been discovered in Russia, Canada, Brazil, and Australia. Generally, diamonds are mined from volcanic pipes. Volcanic pipes are deep in the Earth where the high pressure and temperature enables the formation of the crystals. Subject to frequent controversy, the mining and distribution of natural diamonds, has raised large concerns over the sale by African paramilitary groups. As previosuly mentioned, humans have been able to adapt diamonds for many uses because of their extraordinary physical characteristics. The most recognized of all these properties, is a diamond's extreme hardness. Article Source: http://www.dailynewarticles.com Feel free to reprint this article as long as you keep the article, this caption and author biography in tact with all hyperlinks. Ryan Fyfe is the owner and operator of The Diamond Index - www.thediamondindex.com, which is the best site on the internet for all diamond related information. More Articles from Jewelry Category: 10 Things You Must Consider Before Purchasing A Diamond Solutions for Resizing a Ring that Does Not Fit Gold Jewelry Discoloration Gold and Rhodium Plating for Watch Bands and Rings What Should I Consider When Buying a Gold Ring? Swarovski Crystals Has Redefined The Meaning Of Crystal What Is It That Makes Certain Gemstones Truly Precious And Rare? Diamond Illustrated Jewelry How To Choose The Best Showcases For Your Jewelry Rolex and Changing Times Diamond : A Gemstone Of Love And Eternity Gemstones : An Introduction For You To Make An Informed Choice The Pocket Watch: Sophisticated And Functional Casio Data Base Watches Are Known Worldwide The Freelook Watch Brand Has Signature Style