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Have you ever heard about a chameleon diamond? This is one of the most unexplained color-changing gemstone capable of ruining the very basics of a GIA 4C rule. Chameleon diamonds can have a different hue. There have been some theories recorded, but none had enough scientific evidence to prove the existence of this fact.
What Is A Chameleon Diamond?
A chameleon diamond is one of the most mysterious diamonds in the world. It can change its color from olive to a deep yellow hue. This situation occurs when you keep the diamond in the dark for 24 hours or heat it to 200-300 Celsius. Can you believe that? If you put a chameleon diamond back to the sunshine or remove it from the heat source, it will get a light olive hue again. Some diamonds change their tone from stable yellow to green when they are heated. Because of that, such stones are called “reverse” chameleon diamonds.
Key Characteristics Of Chameleon Diamonds
Chameleon diamonds have several unique features that make them stand out from other types of diamonds. Understanding these characteristics can help you appreciate these rare gems even more:
- Color Combinations: Chameleon diamonds are known for their interesting color combinations. They can show shades like yellow, green, brown, and gray. The mix of these colors makes each diamond unique and adds to its beauty.
- Diamond Fluorescence: A key feature of chameleon diamonds is their fluorescence. This means they can glow and emit visible light when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This glowing effect enhances their color-changing abilities and creates a stunning look that can mesmerize anyone who sees them.
- Types of Chameleon Diamonds: There are two main types of chameleon diamonds: classic and reverse. Classic chameleon diamonds typically change from one color to another. In contrast, reverse chameleon diamonds might return to their original color after some time or under different lighting conditions. This distinction adds to the intrigue and variety of chameleon diamonds, making them even more interesting.
- Limited Color Range: It’s important to note that chameleon diamonds do not come in every color. For instance, they are not available in very intense colors, which makes their subtle color changes even more remarkable. Some of the most common combinations you’ll find include brown-yellow, gray-yellow, gray-green, brown-green, and green-yellow.
- Uniqueness: One of the most captivating aspects of chameleon diamonds is that no two color changes are alike. Each diamond has its own unique characteristics and color combinations, making them highly sought after by collectors and jewelry lovers. This individuality is what makes each chameleon diamond special and valuable.
Types Of Mystery Chameleon Diamonds
There are two types of chameleon diamonds known to the world:
- A “classic” chameleon diamond;
- A “reverse” chameleon diamond
A “classic” chameleon diamond has two different natural abilities. On the one hand, you can change its color from light olive to dark yellow by heating it or removing it from the light. However, overheating the jewel causes dramatic changes in its structure. When the diamond is put down to cold, the color becomes original again. On the other hand, when a diamond remains in a dark place for a long time, it gets darker by itself. When it hits the sun again, it comes back to a brighter tone. These are the basic principles of its photochromic behavior.
A “reverse” chameleon diamond, as its name implies, has a more vibrant yellow color. This jewel turns to a light olive color when you put it in the dark for much longer than a “classic” colored chameleon diamond. When you bring it back to the light, it changes to its original yellow hue once again. There is one interesting fact behind that: “reserve” diamonds do not react to the temperature rise. So, don’t be surprised if you are heating this stone to 200 degrees – it will hold the same color.
Why Do Chameleon Diamonds Change Color?
Chameleon diamonds are special because they can change color under different conditions. This color change is believed to come from their unique internal structures and the presence of certain impurities. When these diamonds are exposed to various types of light, such as ultraviolet (UV) light or even just changes in temperature, they can show a remarkable shift in color. For example, a chameleon diamond might look yellow in regular light but change to green when it’s under UV light. This happens because light interacts with the diamond’s crystal structure, which affects how it absorbs different light wavelengths.
Despite this fascinating ability, the exact reasons behind why chameleon diamonds change color are still not fully understood. Since these diamonds are rare, they are not often studied in detail, meaning we have limited research on them. Much of what we know is based on observations rather than extensive scientific studies, leaving plenty of opportunities for further exploration in gemology.
How Rare Are Chameleon Diamonds?
Certainly, chameleon diamonds are extremely rare. Their history started in the middle of the 20th century. Before that, most jewelers and merchants believed these stones were pure green diamonds. The first case of their studying happened in GIA (Gemological Institute of America) in 1943. After that, GIA specialists took 29 examples of this type of diamonds in terms of finding out the differences between chameleon diamonds and green diamonds.
Katerina Perez, one of the experts involved, said that an average green diamond being exposed to high temperatures would change its color forever. But the real chameleon diamond can easily switch the color and come back to its original hue. If we talk about the origin of this beauty, the scientists at the GIA indicate different sources. Specifically, around 30 percent of chameleons were bought in Tel Aviv, 30 percent were acquired in Antwerp, and the other 40 percent were bought in India. The exact origin of chameleon diamonds remains a mystery to this day.
The Most Famous Chameleon Diamonds In The World
There are three of the most famous color-changing diamonds:
- 31,31-carat monster;
- 8,04-carat hustler;
- 4,41-carat fellow.
The first one, the real giant, is among the largest brilliants the world has ever discovered. This diamond appeared to be fancy enough for a Swiss watch company to buy it in 2007. Another famous example of a chameleon colored diamond has an elegant grеy-green hue. It has around 8 carats, surrounded by pink diamonds in pave and set in a ring of 18K rose gold. No one expected this ring to be sold for a 2,100,000$ – because of the large size and rarity of this jewelry. The least one among these was purchased for approximately 240,000$ in May 2001 at Christie’s Hong Kong auction. The diamond was a faceted triangular stone in a platinum base of 4,41 carats.
Conclusion
Chameleon diamonds are some of the most mysterious and interesting gems found in nature. Their ability to change color under different lights and temperatures makes them truly special. While the exact reason for this color change is still not fully known, this mystery only adds to their appeal. These rare diamonds are a great choice for anyone who wants to add something unique and colorful to their life. Let the beautiful colors of chameleon diamonds bring a touch of wonder and uniqueness to your world. Add more color to your life with Diamond Registry.
