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Nitrogen in Diamonds: What You Need to Know 

Nitrogen is a naturally occurring element that is found in diamonds. It is present in all diamonds, but the amount of nitrogen can vary. The presence of nitrogen can affect the color and clarity of a diamond. 

How Nitrogen Affects the Color of Diamonds 

The amount of nitrogen in a diamond can affect its color. Diamonds with a low nitrogen content are typically colorless or near-colorless. Diamonds with a higher nitrogen content can have a yellow, brown, or green tint. 

The color of a diamond is caused by the way that light interacts with the nitrogen atoms in the diamond. The nitrogen atoms absorb certain wavelengths of light, which gives the diamond its color. 

How Nitrogen Affects the Clarity of Diamonds 

The presence of nitrogen can also affect the clarity of a diamond. Diamonds with a high nitrogen content can have inclusions, which are small defects that can make the diamond look cloudy or blurry. 

Inclusions are caused by the way that the diamond is formed. As the diamond is forming, nitrogen atoms can be trapped in the crystal structure. These nitrogen atoms can then form clusters, which can create inclusions. 

lab diamonds uk: lab-grown diamonds and nitrogen

The amount of nitrogen in lab-grown diamonds can vary. Some lab-grown diamonds are grown in a nitrogen-rich environment, which can result in a diamond with a yellow or brown tint. Other lab-grown diamonds are grown in a nitrogen-free environment, which results in a colorless or near-colorless diamond. 

The clarity of lab-grown diamonds is also affected by the presence of nitrogen. Lab-grown diamonds with a high nitrogen content can have inclusions, just like natural diamonds. However, lab-grown diamonds can be grown in a way that minimizes the number of inclusions. 

Choosing a Diamond with Nitrogen 

If you are looking for a colorless or near-colorless diamond, you may want to choose a diamond with a low nitrogen content. However, if you are looking for a diamond with a yellow, brown, or green tint, you may want to choose a diamond with a higher nitrogen content. 

If you are concerned about the clarity of a diamond, you should ask to see the diamond under magnification. This will allow you to see any inclusions that may be present. 

Conclusion 

Nitrogen is a naturally occurring element that is found in diamonds. The amount of nitrogen in a diamond can affect its color and clarity. If you are looking for a specific color or clarity, you should be aware of the impact that nitrogen can have on a diamond.