Bort (name)

Bort is a term primarily used in the gem and jewelry industry. It refers to a naturally occurring, unpolished, and usually opaque form of industrial-grade diamond. Unlike gem-quality diamonds, bort lacks the clarity, color, and cut necessary for use in jewelry. Its inherent toughness and abrasion resistance, however, make it exceptionally valuable for industrial applications.

Bort is typically found as fragments or aggregates of crystalline diamond, often exhibiting a dark color due to impurities. These impurities can include graphite, other minerals, and even traces of metallic elements. Because of its heterogeneous composition and irregular shapes, bort is not easily faceted for gem use.

The industrial uses of bort are extensive, leveraging its exceptional hardness. Common applications include the creation of cutting tools (diamond saws and drills), abrasives for polishing and grinding, and components in high-pressure scientific equipment. Its extreme hardness allows for the efficient machining of extremely hard materials such as granite, concrete, and other metals. The value of bort is directly related to its hardness and grain size, with larger, harder pieces commanding higher prices. Different grades of bort are classified based on their size, purity and suitability for specific industrial purposes.

The production and trade of bort is a significant component of the global diamond industry, albeit often overshadowed by the more glamorous aspects of gem-quality diamond trade. Bort represents a substantial source of industrial-grade diamonds, crucial for various technological and manufacturing processes.