A diamond becomes valuable not only because of its formation, but also because of the long journey it takes before reaching a retail store.

Even after forming over millions of years, a diamond still moves through multiple stages before you can purchase it. Each stage influences its appearance, quality, and final value.

If you are a wholesaler or an end consumer looking to buy the best, understanding the diamond journey from mine to market helps you evaluate quality with confidence.

In this guide, you will understand:

• The supply chain of a natural stone
• The difference between diamond manufacturing and jewelry manufacturing
• Major global mining and trade hubs

Exploration in the Diamond Journey

Exploration begins with identifying locations where rough stones may exist. Countries like South Africa, Botswana, Canada, Russia, Namibia, Congo, and Australia produce significant volumes of diamond ore.

Most diamonds come from Kimberlite and Lamproite pipes beneath the Earth’s surface. Volcanic activity brings these minerals closer to the surface, making mining possible.

Companies test samples carefully because only a small percentage of sites contain commercially viable diamond deposits.

Mining in the Diamond Industry

Once experts confirm a viable location, mining begins. Ethical sourcing remains a priority throughout the extraction process.

Common mining methods include:

• Alluvial mining: Extracting stones from sand and gravel
• Marine mining: Recovering minerals from riverbeds or ocean floors
• Open-pit mining: Large surface excavation
• Underground mining: Accessing deeper deposits

After extraction, the ore undergoes crushing, blasting, and X-ray sorting to separate rough diamond material.

Sorting and Rough Trade

Sorting categorizes rough stones based on size, shape, color, and quality. Mining companies then sell them through structured sales channels such as the sight-holder system.

This stage plays a major role in determining the eventual value of a polished diamond.

Diamond Manufacturing Process

Manufacturing transforms a rough stone into a polished gem. Skilled professionals plan, cleave, brut, polish, and inspect each diamond with precision.

Technology and craftsmanship directly affect brilliance, symmetry, and pricing.

Wholesaling and Global Distribution

After polishing, manufacturers distribute loose stones to wholesalers and jewelry producers worldwide. At this stage, the diamond becomes ready for retail markets.

Jewelry Manufacturing

Jewelry manufacturers design rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets using polished stones. Countries like India, China, Italy, Thailand, Turkey, Spain, and the USA lead global jewelry production.

Retail Sale and Final Purchase

Retailers showcase finished jewelry pieces for customers. While buyers see only the final sparkle, every diamond carries a long and complex journey behind it.

The Value of a Natural Stone

Understanding this entire process allows you to evaluate quality claims with clarity. The journey from mine to market defines authenticity, craftsmanship, and pricing.

At Hari Krishna Exports, we follow strict sourcing and manufacturing standards to maintain consistency and transparency across every stage.

You can register on hk.co to explore our extensive inventory of polished diamonds available in multiple shapes and sizes.

Download our hk.co app on
Android and iOS for a seamless buying experience.