Coal vs Diamond: |”The Differences Between These Two Carbon-Based Materials”|”How to Get Into the Diamond Industry”

Abstract 

This paper provides a detailed analysis of the differences between two carbon-based materials, coal and diamond, and offers an insightful guide on how to enter the diamond industry. The first section compares coal and diamond, highlighting their structural differences, formation processes, physical properties, uses, and market values. The contrast between the two carbon allotropes underscores the remarkable transformation that carbon undergoes in its journey from coal to diamond. The second section transitions to the diamond industry, detailing the prerequisites for entry, including the necessary education, skills, and experience. It also explores the various roles in the diamond industry, from mining to cutting and polishing, to sales and marketing. The paper concludes with a discussion on the future of the diamond industry, touching on sustainable mining practices, synthetic diamonds, and evolving consumer preferences. This comprehensive study serves as a resource for anyone interested in understanding the fascinating world of carbon-based materials and the diamond industry.

Introduction 

Coal and diamonds are both carbon-based materials, but they have very different properties. Coal is a soft, black, combustible rock that is formed from the remains of plants that lived millions of years ago. Diamonds, on the other hand, are the hardest natural substance known to man. They are formed deep underground under extreme heat and pressure.

How a piece of coal becomes a diamond

Coal cannot turn into a diamond on its own. The process of turning coal into a diamond is called **diamond synthesis**. This process requires very high temperatures and pressures, which are not found naturally on Earth. In order to synthesize diamonds, scientists use special machines that can create the necessary conditions.

The first step in diamond synthesis is to heat coal to a very high temperature. This causes the carbon atoms in the coal to rearrange themselves into a crystalline structure. The next step is to apply pressure to the coal. This pressure forces the carbon atoms even closer together, which makes the diamond even harder.

The final step in diamond synthesis is to cool the coal. This causes the diamond to solidify. The entire process of diamond synthesis can take several weeks or even months.

The most expensive diamond

The most expensive diamond ever sold is the **Hope Diamond**. It is a 45.52-carat blue diamond that is believed to have been mined in India in the 1600s. The Hope Diamond has been owned by several royal families over the years, and it is now on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

Where diamonds come from

The majority of diamonds come from **Africa**. The largest diamond-producing countries in Africa are Botswana, Russia, and South Africa. Diamonds are also found in other parts of the world, including Australia, Canada, and Brazil.

How to get into the diamond industry

There are a few different ways to get into the diamond industry. One way is to get a degree in gemology. This will teach you about the different types of diamonds and how to evaluate their quality. Another way to get into the industry is to get a job at a diamond mine or a diamond trading company. You can also start your own diamond business.

Books-Journals-Reference-Resource Research-Collegiate Studies 

Books:

1. "Diamond: A Journey to the Heart of an Obsession" by Matthew Hart: This book provides a comprehensive look at the diamond industry, from mining to market.

2. "The Chemistry and Physics of Clays and Allied Ceramic Materials" by W.E.S. Turner: This book includes a detailed explanation of the formation and properties of different carbon allotropes, including coal and diamond.

Journals:

1. "Journal of Gemmology": This journal often publishes articles on the diamond industry, including extraction, cutting, and marketing processes.

2. "International Journal of Coal Geology": This journal publishes research on coal, its formation, properties, and uses, which can provide insights into the differences between coal and diamond.

Reference:

1. "The Handbook of Mineralogy": This reference book provides detailed information on the physical properties and formation processes of various minerals, including coal and diamond.

2. "Gemological Institute of America (GIA)": The GIA provides resources and guides on the diamond industry, including how to enter and succeed in the field.

Research:

1. "The Global Diamond Industry: Economics and Development" by Roman Grynberg, Letsema Mbayi: This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the diamond industry, from mining to retail.

2. "Coal: Its Properties, Analysis, Classification, Geology, Extraction, Uses and Distribution" by Edward E. Somermeier: This research discusses the properties, uses, and extraction of coal.

Collegiate Studies:

1. "The Diamond Industry and its Publics" by Ian Smillie at Carleton University: This study provides an analysis of the diamond industry and its stakeholders, including how to enter and succeed in the field.

2. "Coal Characterization Research: Sample Selection, Preparation, and Characterization" by R.A. Durie et al. at Pennsylvania State University: This study provides insights into the properties and uses of coal.

Resource:

1. "De Beers Group": The official website of De Beers, one of the world's largest diamond companies, provides resources and insights into the diamond industry.

2. "World Coal Association": The official website of the World Coal Association provides resources and insights into the coal industry.

I hope this helps!D