Diamond – what is a diamond, how is a diamond formed, and how much does it cost? Enter a world that changes lives and investments
Last updated: 2026-03-08
Published: 2026-03-08
Author: Marta Kłosowska
The diamond is the most recognized gemstone in the world and also a real investment asset. In this guide, I explain what a diamond is, how a diamond is formed, how much 1 carat costs, and how not to make a costly mistake when buying. Specifics, valuation examples, and practical advice – no encyclopedic theory.
- What is a diamond and why are diamonds among the most desired stones
- How a diamond is formed in nature and in laboratory conditions
- The history of the diamond – from kimberlite deposits to De Beers company
- Diamond price per carat – real market ranges
- Natural diamond or synthetic – what to choose?
- How to check authenticity and GIA certificate before purchase
Table of Contents
- What is a diamond and how does a real diamond differ from an imitation?
- How a diamond is formed – natural and laboratory process
- History of the diamond – from India to Australia and Congo
- Diamond price per carat – how much does a 1 ct diamond cost?
- Natural or synthetic diamond – what to choose for jewelry and investing?
Read also:
https://diamentexpert.pl/blogs/news/skup-diamentow
What is a diamond and how does a real diamond differ from an imitation?
What is a diamond? A diamond is a mineral that is a crystalline form of carbon, the same element as graphite, but with a completely different structure. A real diamond is characterized by extreme hardness on the Mohs scale, a high refractive index, and a unique sparkle. If you want to buy a diamond knowingly – read on!
A diamond is a crystal with a structure often taking the form of an octahedron. It is this structure that gives it a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale – the highest in nature. That is why diamonds are one of the most durable materials on Earth. This durability also has industrial significance, as they are used in cutting tools.
Clients most often ask me: "How do I know it's a real diamond and not a synthetic stone?" In practice, it works like this – a gemological certificate, e.g., GIA, HRD, or IGA, is what matters. Authenticity is confirmed by a document, not by the seller's assurance.
The difference between a diamond and an imitation is, among other things, the refractive index – which is why cut diamonds have a strong sparkle and an optical effect incomparable to cubic zirconia. A brilliant is simply a diamond cut in the brilliant cut – a classic model with 57 facets that maximize light refraction.
The biggest mistake investors make is buying a stone without documents. From my experience – one client from Poznań bought a "bargain" without a certificate. The value of the stone was 40% lower than declared.
How a diamond is formed – natural and laboratory process
How is a diamond formed? A diamond is formed under enormous pressure deep within the earth when carbon crystallizes under extreme conditions. In laboratory conditions, this process is reproduced using HPHT or CVD methods. The chemical effect is the same, but the history and rarity are completely different. Understand the differences before buying!
Natural diamonds are formed approximately 150–200 km below the earth's surface. Then, a volcanic eruption brings them upwards through a kimberlite pipe. Extraction occurs from primary deposits and secondary deposits – so-called alluvial deposits.
In Africa, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo, huge mines operate. From my experience – clients often ask about ethical sourcing. That's why we always check the supply chain.
A synthetic diamond (often also called laboratory-grown) is created in a few weeks. Synthetic diamonds are chemically identical, but their rarity is lower. If you have a budget of PLN 4,000-8,000 and want a significant visual effect – the synthetic version might be a sensible choice.
Example: 1 ct G VS1 natural – PLN 20,000. Synthetic version – PLN 3,000.
History of the diamond – from India to Australia and Congo
The history of the diamond is a story of power, money, and emotions. From ancient India, through the mines in Minas Gerais in Brazil, to Australia and the deposits in Congo – the diamond has become a symbol of love and power. Understand this history to better assess the value of a diamond today!
The first mentions of diamonds come from India. In the 18th century, they were discovered in Minas Gerais. Later, Australia became an important producer, especially of colored varieties.
The largest known specimen – the Excelsior – weighed 3106 carats. This shows the scale of nature's potential.
In the 19th century, the De Beers company monopolized the market and created the narrative "A diamond is forever." Since then, the diamond has been given the status of a symbol of eternity and has become the standard for engagement rings.
Fancy colors are rare because they require specific geological conditions. Therefore, rarity increases the price several times over.
Diamond price per carat – how much does a 1 ct diamond cost?
The diamond price per carat depends on the 4Cs: carat, cut, color, and clarity. How much does a 1 ct diamond cost in 2026? In Poland, prices start from a few thousand zlotys for small stones and reach hundreds of thousands for rare investment-grade specimens. Check the real numbers!
Example ranges:
0.50 ct natural VS1 – PLN 5,000–10,000
1 carat G VS1 Excellent – PLN 20,000–45,000
1.50 ct D VS1 – up to PLN 80,000
The quality of the cut is crucial. Even a colorless stone without a good cut will lose its optical effect. A brilliant cut with 57 facets provides maximum strong brilliance.
From my experience: a client from Krakow had a budget of PLN 30,000. He chose a 1.20 ct F SI1 Excellent diamond. The investment value was better than for a smaller D VVS2 stone.
At Diament Expert, you can buy investment diamonds at the lowest prices in Poland – with a guarantee of the lowest price and return. If you plan to invest in investment brilliants – let's talk.
Natural or synthetic diamond – what to choose for jewelry and investing?
Natural or synthetic diamond? The choice depends on the purpose. For jewelry, visual effect may be key, but for investing, rarity and supply matter. If you care about investment value – read this part carefully!
Natural diamonds have a history stretching back billions of years. Synthetic diamonds are created quickly. Both are transparent and optically similar, but the market treats them differently.
Example client situation: budget PLN 30,000.
Option A – natural 0.90 ct.
Option B – synthetic 5.00 ct.
When it comes to engagement jewelry – most people choose natural. When it comes to visual effect – synthetic wins in size.
The biggest mistake an investor can make is treating both stones identically in terms of investment value.
Summary
A diamond is a mineral, a crystal, and also an investment asset. Diamonds are among the most desired gemstones in the world because they combine durability, rarity, and emotion.
If you want to buy diamonds knowingly, check the certificate, cut quality, and the real value of the stone.
At Diament Expert, you can buy diamonds with a guarantee of the lowest price and return.
Check the offer and choose a stone that will be a symbol of love and a real investment.