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How To Identify A Raw Diamond?

Imagine turning over a handful of rough stones and spotting a hidden treasure — a raw diamond that could one day become the center of a breathtaking piece from Greis Jewelers. But how can you tell? Recognizing a raw diamond takes a trained eye, a few reliable checks, and an appreciation for nature’s subtle brilliance.

Today, let’s explore how to identify a raw diamond — so you’ll understand what makes these uncut gems so remarkable and how their journey unfolds into fine jewelry.

What Is A Raw Diamond?

Before we identify one, let’s define it.

A raw diamond — also called a rough diamond — is an unpolished, uncut stone exactly as it emerged from the earth. Unlike the precisely faceted diamonds you see under the lights at our Farmington Hills showroom, a raw diamond carries its natural crystal form: unshaped, untouched, and completely unique.

What Does A Raw Diamond Look Like?

Rough diamonds don’t gleam like the finished gems in our display cases. Instead, look for these distinctive features:

  • Crystal Shape: Most raw diamonds form in an octahedral or cubic crystal. They often look like two pyramids joined at the base.

  • Color: They range from clear to pale yellow, brown, or even grayish tones. Bright white sparkle is rare until cut.

  • Surface Texture: A raw diamond’s surface may appear greasy or glassy, not glittery.

  • Hardness Clues: Raw diamonds can scratch glass, quartz, or other stones.

Simple Checks: How To Spot The Difference

If you’ve ever found a stone that might be a diamond, here are three practical checks you can try — but remember, nothing replaces a professional appraisal.

The Scratch Test

Diamonds are the hardest natural substance. Gently scratch a piece of glass or quartz — a real diamond will leave a visible mark.

The Transparency Test

Hold the stone to light. Most raw diamonds aren’t perfectly transparent. They often look cloudy or have inclusions inside.

The Water Drop Test

A diamond’s density means it won’t float. Place it in a glass of water — if it sinks quickly, that’s a good sign (but not a guarantee).

Comparison Table: Raw Diamond vs. Common Lookalikes

When To Use A Diamond Tester

A diamond tester measures thermal conductivity. Even in rough form, a raw diamond will conduct heat differently than other minerals. However, because some raw diamonds have natural coatings or inclusions, results can vary. That’s why, at Greis Jewelers, we pair tool testing with expert visual inspection.

Why Raw Diamonds Matter In Fine Jewelry

Once identified, a raw diamond begins its true transformation. Here’s what that means for the piece that may someday grace your hand:

  • Planning The Cut: Our skilled partners analyze a rough diamond’s natural shape to plan a cut that maximizes carat weight, brilliance, and beauty.

  • Design Possibilities: Some collectors choose to preserve a diamond’s natural form in custom designs, celebrating its organic geometry.

  • Appraisal: We ensure every diamond — raw or polished — is properly documented for authenticity and long-term value.

How Greis Jewelers Elevates Raw Beauty

For decades, the Greisdorf family has turned nature’s hidden treasures into heirlooms. Whether a diamond arrives polished or rough, we handle each gem with uncompromising care:

  • Sourced through trusted, reputable partners

  • Tested, graded, and appraised accurately

  • Crafted into one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your taste and our family’s legacy of excellence

Should You Buy A Raw Diamond?

Raw diamonds can be fascinating to own, but they require expert cutting and finishing to reveal their true potential. Buying rough is best done through reputable jewelers who can show you the transformation process.

At Greis Jewelers, we guide clients every step of the way — from selecting a special rough stone to creating a custom engagement ring that turns nature’s raw beauty into a statement of enduring elegance.

Quick Insight: How To Identify A Raw Diamond

  • Octahedral or cubic crystal shape

  • Greasy or glassy surface

  • Will scratch glass or quartz

  • Sinks in water due to density

  • Unique light reflections under bright light

Trust The Experts

While these tips help you recognize nature’s hidden gems, true identification — and transformation — needs professional eyes and hands.

When you bring a possible raw diamond to Greis Jewelers, you gain more than expertise; you become part of a family tradition that honors authenticity, craftsmanship, and timeless design.

Let’s Uncover Your Treasure Together

  • Have a stone you’d like identified or appraised?

  • Curious about how raw diamonds become stunning jewelry?

  • Ready to explore custom design for a one-of-a-kind heirloom?

Schedule an appointment with Greis Jewelers today.

Visit Greis Jewelers

32940 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills, MI 48334

248-855-1730

Store Hours: Tues–Sat 11am–5pm | Sun & Mon Closed

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Greis Jewelers — where the Greisdorf family’s dedication transforms raw beauty into heirloom treasures.

 

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