What Are Black Diamond Rings?

Are Black Diamonds Real?

Black diamonds are genuine diamonds that appear in an opaque color specifically known as fancy black. They are less common in the resale market than red, colorless, or pink diamonds.

Black diamonds can be used as engagement rings or set as jewelry that is suitable for men and women alike. There is no set rule that an engagement ring has to be of a certain color. This type of diamond is only found in mines of Brazil and Central Africa. They are also known as carbonado and are composed of graphite, amorphous solid, and diamond.

How many types of black diamonds are there?

There are only two types of black diamond: naturally occurring black diamond and enhanced black diamond.

Fancy black diamonds are naturally occurring. They are the same opaque color from the rough state in the mine to the finished product at the point of sale. The uniqueness of this diamond creates intrigue because of their rare appearance.

Enhanced black diamonds are lesser quality than natural black diamonds. Enhanced diamonds are treated diamonds that are first burned to give an opaque appearance than polished to finish. This artificial process allows the enhanced diamond to be sold significantly cheaper.

Are black diamonds GIA certified?

Gemological Institute of America, the most widely known diamond certifier in the world, does not grade enhanced black diamonds, so if you are presented with a GIA certificate for them, then you can certainly question the integrity of the product. Natural black diamonds are GIA certified.

How much do black diamonds cost?

As enhanced diamonds have been artificially altered, they are quite cheap around $300 per carat. Natural diamonds cost around $3000 per carat. In general, they are a lower cost option to colorless diamonds.

8.05Cts Black Diamond Engagement Extraordinary Ring Set in 18K White Rose Gold Size 6
8.05Cts Black Diamond Engagement Extraordinary Ring Set in 18K White Rose Gold Size 6

 

How are black diamonds different from colorless diamonds?

The major difference between natural black diamond and colorless diamond is the graphite inclusions in the crystalline structure of a black diamond whereas a colorless diamond does not have to possess this characteristic. Other than that, they have the same properties and hardness.

2.00 Cts White & Black Diamond Three Stone Ring in Platinum
2.00 Cts White & Black Diamond Three Stone Ring in Platinum

What are some of the most famous black diamonds in the world?

The Black Star of Africa, last seen in Tokyo in 1971, was an amazing 202 carat. The Korloff Noir is located in France and held by the Korloff jewelry company. The largest natural black diamond in the world is 312.24 carat called Spirit of de Grisogono. It was mined from the Central African Republic.

Korloff Noir black diamond
Korloff Noir black diamond
Spirit of de Grisogono
Spirit of de Grisogono

Black diamonds in pop culture

Perhaps the most popular reference to black diamond in pop culture would be Mr. Big’s engagement ring to Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and City.

 

Brad Pitt also owns a pair of black diamond serpent cuff-links given by Angelina Jolie.

Brad Pitt also owns a pair of black diamond serpent cuff-links given by Angelina Jolie.

 

Gwyneth Paltrow was also seen sporting a black diamond bracelet in the 2011 Emmy Awards.

Gwyneth Paltrow was also seen sporting a black diamond bracelet in the 2011 Emmy Awards.

 

Should I choose a black diamond engagement ring?

There are no rules, customs, or requirements on the color of an engagement ring although colorless diamond rings tend to be the most common. The important consideration is suitability to the person wearing the ring.

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2.9 Carat t.w 14K White Gold Classic Side Stone Prong Set Diamond Engagement Ring w a 2 Carat Princess Cut Black Diamond Heirloom Quality
2.9 Carat t.w 14K White Gold Classic Side Stone Prong Set Diamond Engagement Ring w a 2 Carat Princess Cut Black Diamond Heirloom Quality

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2.87Cts Black Diamond Engagement Halo Ring Set in 18K White Gold GIA Certified Size 6
2.87Cts Black Diamond Engagement Halo Ring Set in 18K White Gold GIA Certified Size 6

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Carl A. Jones, GIA GG

Carl A. Jones is a GIA Graduate Gemologist with over 20 years of experience in the diamond industry. He is an independent jewelry appraiser. He specializes in determining the value of diamonds and advising consumers on how to buy quality diamond jewelry.

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