For centuries the diamond has fascinated man for its alluring sparkle and physical harness. The diamond very well may be the oldest item you will ever purchase. The diamond must actually undergo several stages before it enters the market. Here are the four stages.
1. Mining. Roughly 50% of diamonds come from Africa. Most natural diamonds are forced to the surface through pipes.
2. Rough reaches the market. 20% of the diamond market enters the CSO (Central Selling Organization). They are put into one of nearly 5000 different categories. After being sorted and priced they are sold to manufacturers.
3. Manufacturing. All rough finds its way to the cutting centers. There are only a handful of certified centers in the world. They are in Antwerp, Israel, Bombay, Johannesburg, and New York.
4. Final Journey. After the diamond is manufactured, it is ready to be sold.