Why are black diamonds black?

[thecat]

Is it because the whole diamond crystal is filled with black inclusions?

Then white diamonds (not the transparent, clear ones) are white due to whole diamond crystal filled with white inclusions?

Would they be less durable since they are so heavily included?

Thanks

 

[chrono]

There are both treated and natural black diamonds, with the treated version being the most common. Natural black diamonds get their colouration from graphite or iron (black) inclusions. Irradiated black diamonds are actually a deep dark green, but they are so dark that they appear black to the eye. If you shine a bright pinpoint light through them, you can detect the green colouration. High temperature treatment also changes the internal structure towards graphite, which is black. There are also opaque carbonado, which are believed to be from meteorites but discussion is ongoing about its origin.

 

[thecat]

There are both treated and natural black diamonds, with the treated version being the most common. Natural black diamonds get their colouration from graphite or iron (black) inclusions. Irradiated black diamonds are actually a deep dark green, but they are so dark that they appear black to the eye. If you shine a bright pinpoint light through them, you can detect the green colouration. High temperature treatment also changes the internal structure towards graphite, which is black. There are also opaque carbonado, which are believed to be from meteorites but discussion is ongoing about its origin.

Thanks for the help, Chrono.