Earth's Mysterious Black Diamonds May Have Begun With an Ancient Cosmic Impact - ScienceAlert

A distinct nitrogen-vacancy configuration in hexagonal diamonds is predicted to have longer coherence times, yet similar electronic properties to vacancy centers in cubic diamonds. Uncovering long coherence times in the nitrogen vacancy centers of hexagonal diamonds lead image

Behind the brilliant sparkle of every natural diamond lies a geological miracle formed deep within the earth over billions of years. To deepen public appreciation for these natural treasures, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the world’s leading authority on gemmology and creator of the 4Cs, is highlighting the scientific magic behind diamonds. GIA is helping enthusiasts, consumers, and industry professionals see natural diamonds in a whole new light while empowering the next generation of talent through its comprehensive educational programmes in Hong KongAs an independent, non-profit organisation established in 1931, GIA remains dedicated to protecting public trust through objective research, state-of-the-art laboratory services, and advanced instrument development. Through decades of scientific research, GIA gemmologists utilise sophisticated technology, such as the GIA iD100® tester and Gemolite® NXT photomicroscopes, to precisely differentiate natural diamonds from laboratory-grown diamonds and simulants. This rigorous scientific foundation ensures that every evaluation provided in GIA Grading Reports and Dossiers remains the world's most trusted standard.

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory researcher Isaiah Santistevan led the development of three-dimensional simulations exploring how a nuclear device could deflect or disrupt an asteroid threatening Earth. Credit: Blaise Douros/LLNL Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) researchers are developing three-dimensional simulations to examine how a nuclear device could be used to deflect or potentially disrupt an asteroid threatening Earth.