New growth features of natural diamonds, revealed by color cathodoluminescence scanning electron microscope (CCL SEM) technique

Abstract

AbstractThe internal structure of diamonds with various habit was studied by color cathodoluminescence scanning electron microscopy (CCL SEM). A new growth mechanism was ascertained for diamonds of rounded and octahedral habit. The specific growth details found by means of CCL SEM testify to the fact that the crystallization of diamonds proceeded from the specimen periphery toward the centre by formation of agate secretions. CCL determined was the structure of transparent cubic crystals to be a combination of zones with cuboid surfaces and fibrous structure. The authors consider that both cuboid and fibrous structures are the result of normal (nontangential) growth mechanisms which may be realized during secretional filling of the space, determined for a number of crystals of rounded and octahedral habitus.