1800 Tequila is a spirit brand that has managed to create a diamond made from Mexican tequila. Their tequila is made in Tequila, Mexico using a traditional distillation process extracted from blue Weber agave. 1800 Tequila is known for its flavored tequilas such as coconut and añejo, an expression with rich butterscotch and vanilla notes. 1800 Tequila has diverged from their usual route of tequila production to enter the luxury jewelry scene.
The unique 5.5 carat diamond was unveiled at this year’s Met Gala whose theme was centered around the Black Dandy expressionist form. The diamond was crafted into a brooch designed by Jonathan Raksha and was worn by actress and vocalist, Janelle Monae. There was no other deserving person to wear this masterpiece as Monae has been somewhat of a new school pioneer of Dandy expressionism.
The diamond was flanked in white gold within an inverted setting surrounded by smaller diamonds and also white sapphires. 1800 Tequila is always pushing the boundaries as one of the world’s most awarded Tequila brands. Who knew that such brilliant elegance could be obtained from an alcoholic beverage?
1800 Tequila is the first to unveil a diamond made from Tequila but they are not the first to make the discovery that tequila can form diamonds. Scientists at the National Autonomous University of Mexico first discovered the diamond producing nature of tequila. Diamond films were produced when the vapor of 80 proof Tequila blanco was deposited onto silicone trays at high temperatures. The process is known as Pulsed Liquid Injection Chemical Vapor Deposition (PLICVD).
The diamond made by 1800 Tequila was inspired by the brand’s Cristalino bottle, which is said to offer a crystal clear añejo and smoothness. The Cristalino tequila is one of the brand’s finest and is aged for approximately 16 months using French and American oak barrels. Afterwards, it is aged for an additional 6 months in Port wine casks. Clarity was a focal point in the beautiful tequila crafted emerald cut diamond. The exquisite diamond offers VS1 quality and measured in at a coveted G color. This tequila diamond is near colorless to the naked eye. What’s most fascinating about this lovely diamond by 1800 Tequila is that no earth mines were required--just some liquid tequila!
Ethical concerns within the diamond industry have only increased as information surrounding conflict diamonds are brought to light. Even with continued efforts to stop the trade of conflict diamonds, many still make their way to market. Some are even put in the spotlight by world renowned brands and notable public figures. Sustainable and ethically sourced diamonds continue to be in high demand as human rights abuses linked to the trade of conflict diamonds are exposed. 1800 Tequila is doing good work by introducing the world's first liquid based diamond. Only time will tell if they continue on within this necessary space.
Morales, J., Apátiga, L. M., & Castaño, V. M. (2008). (rep.). Growth of Diamond Films from Tequila. Arxiv. Retrieved from https://arxiv.org/ftp/arxiv/papers/0806/0806.1485.pdf.
By: Mechelle Eleene
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