Step 1: Crystallization -
A Diamond begins its life as carbon that crystallizes in upper portions of the Earth's mantle, at least 100km below the surface, sometimes at 1000 degrees centigrade.

Step 2: Exhumation -
Two types of volcanic rock-Kimberlite and Lamproite- are known to be Diamond-bearing, but most rocks originate in the Kimberlite variety.

Step 3: Exploration and mining -
Once Diamond deposits are located (either in the ground, in riverbeds or on ocean shores), stones are mined and sorted by size, shape, color and perfection.

Step 4: Cutting -
Rough Diamonds are sold to firms that carefully evaluate the stones for flaws and coloring. Then they cut and shape the Diamonds with a range of tools, from saws to lasers.

Step 5: Setting -
Cut stones are sold to jewelers, who set and sell them