Diamond is one of the two best known forms (or allotropes) of carbon, whose hardness and high dispersion of light make it useful for industrial applications and jewelry (the other equally well known allotrope is graphite). Diamonds are specifically renowned as a mineral with superlative physical qualities - they make excellent abrasives because they can only be scratched by other diamonds, which also means they hold a polish extremely well and retain luster. About 130 million carats (26,000 kg) are mined annually, with a total value of nearly USD $9 billion.

The name "diamond" derives from the ancient Greek adamas (αδάμας; "invincible"). They have been treasured as gems since their use as religious icons in India at least 2,500 years ago—and usage in drill bits and engraving tools also dates to early human history. Popularity of diamonds has risen since the 19th century because of improved cutting and polishing techniques, and they are commonly judged by the "four Cs": carat, clarity, color, and cut. Although nearly four times the mass of natural diamonds are produced as synthetic diamond each year, the vast majority of synthetic diamond production remains small, imperfect diamonds suitable only for industrial-grade use, with gem-quality synthetic diamonds only recently becoming available.

Most natural diamonds originate from central and southern Africa, although significant sources of the mineral have been discovered in Canada, Russia, Brazil, and Australia. They are generally mined from volcanic pipes, which are deep in the Earth where the high pressure and temperature enables the formation of the crystals. The mining and distribution of natural diamonds are subjects of frequent controversy—such as with concerns over the sale of conflict diamonds by African paramilitary groups. There are also allegations that the De Beers Group misuses its dominance in the industry to control supply and manipulate price via monopolistic practices.

Diamond is a transparent crystal of pure carbon consisting of tetrahedrally bonded carbon atoms. Humans have been able to adapt diamonds for many uses because of the material's exceptional physical characteristics. Most notable among these properties are the extreme hardness of diamond, its high dispersion index, and high thermal conductivity. These properties form the basis for most modern applications of diamond.
This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Diamonds".

Nofeerentals.com No fee apartments for rent in East Village New York NYC
We have studio, one bedroom apartments, two bedroom apts for rent in the East Village in New York City NYC; No fee apartments for rent. The streets are low-rise and lined with recently renovated tenement buildings.
http://www.nofeerentals.com/new-york/manhattan/east-village.asp

Notasinc.com Jute handicrafts baskets and plates, handmade by Colombian artisans
Baskets and Plates, hand made, exclusive decorative pieces, vibrating colors
http://www.notasinc.com/baskets_and_plates.htm

Sapphire Rings and Sapphire Jewelry at Jewelheaven.com
Sapphires are really are gems of the sky, although they are found in the hard part of our Blue planet. Sapphire rings are worn by the people because of its beauty, magnificent colors, transparency, constancy and durability.
http://www.jewelheaven.com/Sapphire-Rings.asp

Lansend.com: Microsoft Certified Computer consultants in New York, NY
Microsoft Certified Computer consultants providing computer and network consulting services in New York ,NY Manhattan Queens, Lan Wan Networking VPN.
http://www.lansend.com

Ebony black microfiber futon cover polycotton machine washable suede futon cover
Ebony black futon Cover is a durable microfiber futon covers made from poly cotton it is a polycotton machine washable futon cover like suede futon cover
http://www.futonstogo.com/details-of-product/futon-cover-plush-ebony-suede-solid.asp