The word "Diamond" originates from the Greek word "Adamas" meaning unconquerable or invincible.

Throughout the centuries, Diamonds have remained one of the most sought after treasures, holding secure their value in the international market place.

The diamond is the hardest of all gemstones known to man, yet it is the simplest in composition. It is common carbon, like the graphite in lead, but has a melting point of about 4,000 degrees centigrade, which is approximately two and a half times greater than the melting point of steel.

A diamond weight is the simplest of its characteristics to measure and it is used to calculate one aspect of the value of the diamond. One carat is a unity of weight and it is equal to a fifth of a gram. Each carat is divided into 100 points; for example, a quarter carat is 25 points and half a carat is 50 points, and so on.

Larger diamonds are more valuable than smaller ones from the simple fact that they are found in nature less frequently than smaller ones. The larger the diamond is, the more rare it is, and therefore, the price per carat increases as the diamond gets larger. However, carat weight has no bearing on diamond colour, clarity, or cut.

 

New diamond mining and investment legislation has created a sound basis for investment in this sector in Angola. External companies must work directly or indirectly with ENDIAMA, the state diamond company. However, companies have external control of foreign exchange earnings and the right to market their diamonds with ENDIAMA. There is a royalty of 12.5% on exports, corporate profits tax of 30% a dividend tax of 5% and accelerated depreciation on capital investments.

Mining equipment and supplies are imported duty free. The diamond sector has been very important to the Angolan economy and is now the focus of intense interest. A continuing upsurge of interest in this sector can be anticipated over the next several years.

With the application of new exploration technology additional alluvial resources will be established and that further kimberlites, some diamond-bearing will be discovered. Important advances have been made in kimberlite exploration, the most significant being the development of aerial geophysical surveying techniques and the understanding of the chemistry of kimberlite indicator minerals. The application of aerial geophysics in particular can be anticipated to be very productive.