Selecting the Right Diamond

Manufacturers of All Industrial Diamond Products, Now in our 3rd Century

Normal Size and Tolerance

Quality: Among naturally formed diamonds, all but the most expensive, gem quality stones will have flaws. These can be evidenced as slight discolorations, which only rarely affect the performance of the diamond, or they can be seen as cracks and fissures. Whether located near the stone's surface or deep in its core, even the slightest cracks can cause poor performance and premature failure.

Shape: Diamonds come in a variety of shapes, and provide from one to six usable points. A usable point is one with sufficient height and sharpness for proper performance that will not fracture during operation. With six such points, the stone can be rotated up to five times, each time exposing a new point.

Stones with a higher number of usable points have a higher initial cost. With proper use and periodic point rotation, however, the higher initial cost is rewarded with longer tool life and eventually greater economy.

◊ Weight tolerance conform to A.S.A. Standards B-67, -1965

◊ In quantity orders, the average weight will fall within the specified tolerances, Industrial classification of raw materials results in some size overlap among stones smaller than 1/3 carat.

Crystal

Dodecahedron

Elongated Tool Stone

Maacle

Octahedron

 

Shape and Quality Classification

 

How to Determine Diamond Size

Hardness: Although all diamonds are chemically identical, differences in hardness do occur. Stones mined in Africa, for example, tend to be hardest. These are followed closely by stones from Russia, Australia and Brazil. In terms of color, white or yellow diamonds tend to be the hardest.

Size: Larger diamonds are needed for larger wheels. As a rule of thumb, we recommend selecting the largest diamond your budget can afford; and as a minimum, at least a half carat for every inch of wheel face. Other factors influence the selection of a diamond's size.

These include: ◊Wheel diameter ◊rigidity of the machine or dressing device ◊use of coolants ◊grain coarseness ◊bond hardness ◊dressing wheel speeds

Larger stones offer several advantages. First, with more of the stone contacting the wheel, the dressing operation is completed faster. Second, with greater surface area, heat is dissipated more rapidly. Third, larger stones are studier, and can withstand more abusive conditions. And finally, they last longer.

A diamond should be large enough such that it's surface area is sufficient to give all detrimental heat to its surrounding holder. Any built-up heat may lead to the destruction of the diamond. Diamond size is given in carat (1 carat=0.2g).