When we think of diamonds, our first impression is of a crystal-clear stone reflecting a rainbow of colours. But natural diamonds come in a variety of colours, often called coloured diamonds, and are among the rarest and most captivating treasures found on Earth. Read below to learn more about coloured diamonds, explained by a Toronto jeweller.
A Guide to Coloured Diamonds: Everything You Should Know
Diamonds are usually prized for their pristine clarity, but the world of fancy coloured diamonds is a breathtaking colour palette that goes far beyond the traditional white stone. Coloured diamonds are pure carbon, but their colours come from trace elements or structural changes that occurred deep underground millions of years ago.
Yellow Diamonds
Yellow diamonds are frequently the first step for someone looking to break away from tradition. The colour of these stones is due to nitrogen, and they are often called Canary diamonds when they reach a high level of saturation. The more nitrogen there is during diamond growth, the more intense the yellow becomes. They vary from a light, airy lemon to a deep golden sunflower. They are appreciated for their high-end look and warm, approachable appeal.
Pink Diamonds
Pink diamonds are one of the most mysterious of all gemstones. Unlike other colours, pink is not caused by a specific chemical element. Instead, scientists believe the colour results from a process called plastic deformation. As the diamond formed deep within the earth under intense heat and pressure, the crystal lattice was distorted, causing the stone to absorb green light and reflect a beautiful pink glow. With the recent closure of major mines such as the Argyle mine, these have become highly sought-after collector’s items.
Blue Diamonds
A blue diamond is among the rarest of all gemstones. The presence of boron during diamond formation is responsible for its cool, calm colour. Blue diamonds are difficult to find because the geological conditions required for boron to be incorporated into the diamond structure are extremely rare. They can range from the pale blue of a winter sky to a deep oceanic teal. They are so rare that they are often seen as emblems of royalty and power.
Champagne Diamonds
If you want something subtle and earthy, champagne diamonds are the way to go. Their colour ranges from light straw to deep cognac and chocolate brown. They were overlooked for a long time but are now hugely popular because they look gorgeous against rose gold and complement various skin tones. They have an organic vintage feel that makes them stand out from the crowd without being too flashy.
Understanding the Intensity Scale
The conversation about quality changes when you shop for coloured diamonds. With white diamonds, we look for a lack of colour. For fancy coloured diamonds, the more colour, the more valuable they can be. The grading scale ranges from Faint and Very Light to Fancy, Intense, and Fancy Vivid. The more saturated the colour, the more expensive the diamond may be.
Why Buy Coloured Diamonds?
Picking a diamond with a unique colour is a bold statement and speaks volumes about your personal style. That’s why so many people are moving away from the classic colourless look.
Uniqueness
A coloured diamond ensures your piece is unique, one of a kind, among so many engagement rings that look alike. The shade of two naturally coloured diamonds is never exactly the same. Wearing a pink or champagne stone is like wearing a piece of art that cannot be perfectly duplicated. It’s a chance to make sure your jewellery is as unique as your own life story.
Better Value for Some Shades
Pinks and blues are very expensive, but some coloured diamonds, like yellow and champagne, can offer relatively better value compared to high-quality white diamonds. So, for the same price, you may get a larger stone with more visual impact. You can achieve a more noticeable look and a more interesting conversation piece without necessarily spending more.
Everlasting Symbols
Colours have significance. A yellow diamond can represent joy and new beginnings, while a blue diamond can represent peace and stability. Choosing a stone by colour allows you to add a layer of meaning to a gift or an engagement ring. It transforms a piece of jewellery into a personal talisman.
Amazing Durability
A coloured diamond does not mean it is any less tough. Diamonds are still the hardest natural substance on the planet, a 10 on the Mohs scale. So you get all the beauty of a colourful gemstone, but with the legendary durability of a diamond. These stones are perfect for everyday wear in rings and bracelets.
No Matter What Diamond You Wish to Make Yours, Solitaire x Alex Armen’s Collection Offers Pieces Like No Other
Coloured diamonds are the perfect intersection of the chaos and beauty of nature. Whether you love a yellow stone or a champagne hue, these gems offer a way to express yourself that a clear diamond simply can’t match.
At Solitaire x Alex Armen, we know that a diamond is not just a stone; it’s a milestone. We are located in the heart of Toronto, and our collection is handpicked to enhance the natural fire and unique personality of every gem we work with. Our specialty is sourcing the finest coloured diamonds and setting them in designs that bring out their natural glow. Come visit our gallery and find the colour that speaks to you.
FAQs
Are coloured diamonds actual diamonds?
Yes, they are 100% natural diamonds. They have the same chemical structure as white diamonds, but with trace elements or structural changes that produce their particular colours.
The most expensive coloured diamond is:
Red, blue, and pink diamonds are usually the most expensive because they are extremely rare. The rarest of all are red diamonds, and only a handful have ever been found.
Do coloured diamonds sparkle as much as white diamonds?
They do shine, but the light reflection is different. White diamonds are cut to maximize brilliance (white light), while coloured diamonds are often cut to maximize colour intensity. You still get fire and sparkle, but the focus is on colour.