Herkimer diamonds

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From time to time a new mineral or crystal enters the scene driving the interest and curiosity of those in the field. And as it happens that time happens to be now. Welcome to Herkimer diamonds.

Alright, that might sound a bit interesting or maybe a bit German for some, but Herkimer diamonds are the new kids on the bloc as far as interesting new gemstones are concerned. But despite its interesting name and the fact that it has diamonds in it, the Herkimer diamond is a gemstone that is closer to home. That is if you happen to be living in the United States.

These and other interesting points that relate to Herkimer diamonds will be the subject of our study in this Education page today. This is a relatively new subject some of the points may seem a bit wild, so read on to find out.

What are Herkimer Diamonds?

The first point to consider in this subject is that Herkimer diamonds are not real diamonds. That is they are not the famous carbon-based gemstones that have come to dominate the gemstone industry. This is not to say that Herkimer diamonds, as their names are devoid of qualities that put them up there with the famous carbon stone.

So what exactly are Herkimer diamonds? Besides their interesting name, Herkimer diamonds are actually sourced from the United States, and they are part of the quartz family of crystals. Quartz is a highly popular crystal formation that is highly abundant in the natural world and is found in a number of different varieties. Among the most notable is the famous amethyst.

The Herkimer quartz or “diamond” derives its name from Herkimer county, in the State of New York. And mined primarily from mines in this region. The most notable mine possibly being the Ace of Diamond mine in Middleville. Whilst quartz crystals themselves as noted are not especially rare in the natural world, their rarity and hence value varies with respect to the type of formation.

What sets the Herkimer diamond apart from other quartz formations is that they are found in a rather unique double-terminated fashion. Those are curious to know that this means, quartz crystals are formed via the hardening of silicon dioxide. During the process of hardening in formations of geothermal waters, the crystal takes on a specific shape, where one side or end appears faceted in its natural state. With Herkimer diamonds or quartz crystals, this faceting with pointed ends (or termination) appears on both ends. Giving them that unique look.

Herkimer Diamond Formation

This is an interesting subject, and what the reader needs to keep in mind is that the research in this area is still developing. As a relatively new entrant into the field of gemstones, more research is going into understanding the nature of these gemstones and their formation.

According to available information, Herkimer diamonds or crystals formed hundreds of millions of years ago. One point that is argued by those in the industry is the ancient origins. According to certain reports, Herkimer diamonds were formed hundreds of millions of years ago. Going all the way back to the Cambrian period (500 + million years).

What is interesting about the Herkimer diamonds is that they are known to form within the cavities of sedimentary rock formations, the most notable being dolostone. Also known as dolomite, and owing to the effects of calcite and interactions with moonstone gave rise to Herkimer quartz crystal or diamonds that form within dolostone cavities, known as ‘vugs’.

These crystals when mined, are identified by their bright crystal sparkle. However separating them from the dolostone matrix, as it is known is not as simple. Especially in larger Herkimer diamond formations.

What Makes the Herkimer Diamonds Special?

This is an interesting question. Since we have established that Herkimer diamonds are technically not authentic carbon-based gemstones. Hence their value propositions is to be based on other seemingly interesting factors.

The key factor is age. The point about the ancient origins of Herkimer diamonds certainly augurs in their favour. For unlike a lot of the synthetic stones that are manufactured in weeks or months, and are readily available, the Herkimer diamond is an ancient stone, that is sourced from nature. Which brings with it a distinct value.

So if you are looking for some really old but solid quartz crystals, then this would be it! Added to that the Herkimer crystals are known to feature geometrical shapes similar to natural diamonds, which in their final cut state, are able to give real diamonds a run for their money.

The factor that sets the Herkimer diamonds the best apart from others is the double-faceted ends or double-terminated crystal forms. This is a rarity in nature and sets this stone apart from the rest. The natural formation of this double-terminated shape some belief confers some special value on the stone. A point which we shall get into later.

The Durability and Use of Herkimer Diamonds

Now some, especially those in the traditional diamond industry will likely take issue with the idea of calling quartz-based crystals “diamonds”. But the point remains that visually and geometrically there are a number of parallels between the two stones. And when it comes to other key gemstone factors like gemstone durability Herkimer diamonds are solid options, with a durability score in the 7 – 7.5 range of the Mohs scale for hardness they are a solid option.

Now when it comes to popular adoption Herkimer diamonds remain largely limited to the United States. As its popularity at a local level has been driven by fascination among local diamond and gemstone enthusiasts. And the relative ease with which these gemstones can be mined in specific locations. At least in contrast to the deep underground and pit mining that come with greater investment and cost.

Mystical Character of Herkimer Diamonds

One of the key areas where Herkimer diamonds have been able to capture the imagination of diamondjewellery enthusiasts is the special qualities that have been associated with them. Arguably what has driven the interest and later the market value for Herkimer diamonds is that they have come to be associated with a number of positive forces that are believed to empower the wearer.

Before going further, it is important to note that a key driver in the gemstone and gemstone jewellery world is the appeal of the mystical. The popularity of gemstone jewellery in countries like India which is a major player, and among top gem-producing nations in Asia is how they are valued. With the various healing and mental powers that are associated with them. Much of which is associated with the transfer of energies.

With Herkimer diamonds, the double-terminated style is viewed positively for this reason alone. In addition to other positives that are associated with it. Now it is not our aim to delve too deeply into this subject, but the key point is that gemstones, which are historically understood for their ability to channel and direct positive energies through the person. Or to help purge unnecessary or negative ones, are believed to be greatly aided by the double-terminated facet of the Herkimer diamond.

The stone, owing to its distinct natural shape is able to soothe the senses, and cleanse negative energies and for those in Hindu mystical tradition, it is even known to connect the various chakras together. This makes the Herkimer quartz or Herkimer diamond an interesting addition.