Which term describes the process in which the outer surface of a diamond is partially dissolved during transport?

Which term describes the process in which the outer surface of a diamond is partially dissolved during transport?

• A. Graining (Grain Lines)
• B. Growth Marks
• C. Singly Refractive (Isotropic)
• D. Resorption

Answer: (D)

Chemical alteration of a diamond’s exterior during transport is described by resorption. Resorption is when the outer surface is partially dissolved by chemical action as the crystal moves through environments with fluids that interact with the surface. This can leave etched, worn, or slightly pitted edges on the facet surfaces, reflecting surface material being removed over time. Graining and growth marks are internal features formed during crystal growth and appear as lines or patterns inside the diamond; they aren’t caused by surface dissolution during transport. Singly refractive (isotropic) relates to optical behavior rather than surface chemistry or etching, so it doesn’t describe this surface-alteration process.

Chemical alteration of a diamond’s exterior during transport is described by resorption. Resorption is when the outer surface is partially dissolved by chemical action as the crystal moves through environments with fluids that interact with the surface. This can leave etched, worn, or slightly pitted edges on the facet surfaces, reflecting surface material being removed over time.

Graining and growth marks are internal features formed during crystal growth and appear as lines or patterns inside the diamond; they aren’t caused by surface dissolution during transport. Singly refractive (isotropic) relates to optical behavior rather than surface chemistry or etching, so it doesn’t describe this surface-alteration process.