You've probably heard of the 4 C’s when it comes to diamonds: carat, cut, clarity, and color. But did you know that diamonds are also categorized by type? Yes, diamonds can be classified by their purity and the presence (or absence) of certain elements like nitrogen. The most talked-about diamond type is Type 2a, but what does that really mean, and why should you care? Let’s break it down.
What Makes Type 2a Diamonds Special?
A Type 2a diamond is the rarest of the rare. In fact, only about 1-2% of earth-mined diamonds are of this type. So, why are these diamonds so unique? It all comes down to purity. Type 2a diamonds have extremely low levels of impurities (like nitrogen), making them brighter and harder than your average diamond. They also tend to have a superior atomic structure, allowing more light to pass through and giving them an incredible amount of sparkle. It's no wonder these beauties are favorites of royalty and celebrities!
Wait, Aren't Most Diamonds Type 1a?
Yep! The majority of diamonds you’ll find in stores are Type 1a diamonds. About 98-99% of diamonds fall into this category. They’re still beautiful but have more impurities like nitrogen, which can slightly lower their brilliance and hardness. So, while Type 1a diamonds are common, Type 2a diamonds are the showstoppers that bring the extra wow factor.
Celebrities Love Type 2a Diamonds!
If you’ve ever wondered why some diamonds are priced like a small fortune, it’s because they’re Type 2a diamonds. Some famous examples include the Hope Diamond, Elizabeth Taylor’s Krupp Diamond, and The Pink Legacy Diamond. These diamonds are not just rare; they’re also more expensive due to their unparalleled quality.
Can You Get a Type 2a Diamond Without Breaking the Bank?
The good news is yes! You don’t have to be a millionaire to own a Type 2a diamond. While earth-mined Type 2a diamonds can cost you a small fortune, lab-grown Type 2a diamonds are a game-changer. They’re made with the same high quality as their earth-mined counterparts, but they’re priced 30-40% less. That means you can get a larger and higher-quality diamond for much less. Plus, they’re just as brilliant and durable as mined diamonds, if not more.
The Sparkle is Real
One of the coolest things about Type 2a diamonds (especially the lab-grown ones) is that they are super sparkly! Thanks to their pure carbon structure, they allow light to pass through easily, which means they shine like no other diamond. In fact, many appraisers can spot a Type 2a diamond just by the sparkle – no fancy equipment needed.
The Bottom Line: Why Choose a Type 2a Diamond?
If you want a diamond that stands the test of time, holds its value, and outshines the rest, a Type 2a diamond is a great choice. With lab-grown diamonds offering all the benefits of Type 2a diamonds at a fraction of the price, it’s a no-brainer. You get more size, more brilliance, and more bang for your buck. Why wouldn’t you choose a Type 2a diamond?