Similar to an old-school James Bond film where secrets were kept in the shadows, the spike in demand for black diamond rings has come to light, and people worldwide are now gravitating towards black diamond engagement and wedding rings. But why?
Engaged couples are moving away from the traditional diamond ring and towards rings that reflect their unique personalities and style. 74 percent of couples said they would opt for an alternative to the traditional ring. Black diamond rings are the perfect choice for those who still want a diamond but are in search of something less conventional.
Black diamonds are trendy—often appearing in photographs of celebrities. The stone is more affordable than colorless diamonds, making it more appealing to buyers.
But the origin of the black diamond remains elusive to most people. Read on to find out more about this mysterious diamond and why it’s so in demand.
The History of Black Diamonds
The origins of natural black diamonds are not confirmed. No one is sure how they form. According to scientists, the stone defies a lot of the typical rules for minerals. While diamonds are found in kimberlites, black diamonds are in younger rock formations called alluvial deposits.
There have been several theories about the phenomenon. Some believe the stones formed due to high levels of radiation, while others believe black diamonds have extra-terrestrial origins because they carry trace elements of hydrogen and nitrogen.
The most widely accepted theory is that black diamonds form much like colorless diamonds and that they may have been caused by asteroids that hit Earth millions of years ago. But when high pressure meets carbon in the earth, it creates inclusions that cluster at random. These inclusions are made up of black minerals like graphite, hematite, and pyrite.
Black diamonds were first discovered in 1840 in Brazil and referred to as carbonado, which means burnt or carbonized in Portuguese. The diamonds were first mined in the early 1920s in the Central African Republic.
They started being set in jewelry in the 20th century, but have recently grown in demand due to their affordability and the influence of pop culture.
Properties of Black Diamonds
Unlike colorless diamonds, black diamonds are opaque. Because of their inclusions, raw black diamonds can be difficult to cut.
The natural stone is in Africa and Brazil. But treated black diamonds are available all over the world. They can be found in Australia, China, Borneo, Thailand, Indonesia, Russia, America, Canada, and Cambodia.
They register as a 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them extremely durable.
Black diamonds are graded for cut, color, and carat weight, but because they are not transparent they are not judged for their clarity. Instead, they’re classified as natural or treated and labeled for their color, which is always fancy black. That said, the diamonds can appear gray, black, brown—even dark green.
Treated Vs. Untreated Black Diamonds
Natural or untreated black diamonds are very rare. The majority of black diamonds available are treated black diamonds.
Untreated black diamonds get their color from mineral inclusions. But treated black diamonds are typically colorless diamonds that have been turned black through a process that requires radiation or high heat. Once heated, the stones stay this way, permanently.
In other cases, the diamond begins as a gray diamond. It is then treated using high heat and low pressure. This process changes the way the light gets reflected from the diamond.
The fractures darken and turn black.
Treating diamonds to turn them into black diamonds occurs in a lab. But the final result is mesmerizing. These stones carry the same chemical composition, longevity, and look as natural black diamonds.
Famous Black Diamonds
Although black diamond rings and jewelry have increased in popularity in recent years, there is evidence of the stone throughout history.
Here are some of the most famous black diamonds.
The Black Orlov
The Black Orlov is perhaps the most famous black diamond in the world. Now a coveted piece of history, the 67.5-carat diamond is surrounded by mystique and lore.
It’s widely believed that the stone wound up being cursed during the 19th century after a monk stole it from the statue of the Hindu God, Brahma. As the story goes, the monk was murdered soon after, although skeptics question what the stone was doing in India, as it isn’t a place black diamonds are usually found.
Originally known as the “Eye of Brahma,” it’s believed to have resurfaced in Russia in the possession of Princess Nadia Vyegin Orlov. It was then renamed The Black Orlov.
Tragedy would follow the stone. Many attribute it to three mysterious suicides of those who came in contact with it, including a diamond dealer and two princesses.
It was purchased in the 1950s by Charles Winson, who had it cut into three separate parts. It had originally been 195 carats, and no one knows where the remaining pieces went. But Dennis Petimezas, who owned the stone from 2004 to 2006 believes we can rest easy, as he feels it is no longer cursed.
The Sergio
The Sergio is the carbonado that was discovered in Bahai, Brazil in 1895. In Portuguese, it’s called Carbonado do Sergio.
The stone is the largest in the world, totaling 3,167 carats. While many believe it originated in space, it’s commonly believed to be a result of ancient meteors meeting the earth’s crust.
Although many people have tried to place a value on the massive diamond, no one has been able to. It is, quite literally, a priceless gem.
The Amsterdam Black Diamond
The Amsterdam Black Diamond first appeared at a store called D. Drukker & Sons in Amsterdam in 1973. The company purchased a rare rough diamond from South Africa and had it cut and polished by diamond experts in 1972.
It resulted in a cut stone of 33.74 carats. The black diamond was pear-shaped, and its release marked the 700th anniversary of the city of Amsterdam.
Amsterdam was known as a leader in the diamond industry until after the second world war. D.Drukker and Sons decided to name it the Amsterdam Black Diamond to celebrate the city’s legacy.
This stone is spectacular because of its properties. While most pear-shaped diamonds have 57 to 58 facets, this one has 145.
The Rembrandt
The Rembrandt is another famous black diamond piece from Amsterdam.
This stone was originally cut from 125-carat raw diamonds. It took three years to craft and polish because it was so hard.
Eventually, it was unveiled as a 42.27-carat stone surrounded by white diamonds. The unveiling took place at the famous Rijksmuseum and was presented by Gerry Schwartz, the Rembrandt specialist.
For this reason, the stone which remains on display at the diamond museum in the city, received its name, The Rembrandt.
The Spirit of the Grisogono
Originating from Central Africa, this stone was cut from a rough black diamond of 587 carats. When it was discovered, jewelers from all over wanted the opportunity to cut it.
Eventually, Swiss jeweler Grisogono was chosen for the job.
Gisogono cut it into a large diamond weighing 312.24 carats. It remains the largest cut black diamond in the world. He also added 702 white diamonds setting the ring in white gold.
The ring was absurdly large. Talk about a conversation starter!
Black Diamonds Are in Demand
Although they were discovered almost two centuries ago, black diamonds have not traditionally been in high demand. But that has changed in recent years, and they are expected to continue gaining popularity.
As more couples look for the best engagement rings that reflect their personalities, more are steering away from traditional diamonds. Black diamonds are an affordable option. But they have also gained popularity as a celebrity trend.
Actress Blake Lively wore two large black diamond earrings at the screening for her husband Ryan Reynolds’ film Deadpool 2. Pop superstar Selena Gomez and Actress Gwyneth Paltrow have also worn black diamonds on the red carpet. The rare gems have also been spotted on celebrities Victoria Beckham, Carmen Elektra, and Cate Blanchett.
But the diamonds gained a huge boost in popularity following the film Sex in the City 2, after style icon Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, received a black diamond engagement ring from Mr. Big. The 5-carat black diamond with a halo of white diamonds was presented along with a Manolo Blahnik pump—a true fashion moment. When Bradshaw asked why the ring was black, Mr. Big responded by saying, “Because you are not like anyone else.”
The film drew attention to the rare stone, causing demand to skyrocket.
Consider Black Engagement Rings
The best engagement rings should suit the person wearing them. They should also symbolize the love between a couple. Black diamonds make a bold statement, but they also provide a timeless look.
If you’re shopping for engagement rings, there are many reasons to consider purchasing a black diamond ring. Here are some of the perks of this mysterious gem.
Rarity
Black diamond rings are extremely rare. They’re found in areas of Brazil and South Africa—having formed in unique climates. For this reason, black diamonds remain extremely rare.
If you’re shopping for black diamond jewelry, you will often hear the terms, one-of-a-kind, limited, and rarity. This proves how special these diamonds are.
Buying a black diamond ring ensures your future spouse has something as rare and beautiful as they are.
Reflexivity
Black diamonds have high optical reflexivity. So what does that mean exactly? It means black diamond rings sparkle, especially if they are adjacent to other stones or set in metal.
Carbon also gives the ring a deeper hue, making it dramatic and gorgeous to the eye.
What this stone loses in clarity, it makes up for in luster. It’s sure to strike a conversation, wherever it goes.
Durability
You can thank carbon for giving black diamonds a few extra advantages over other gems.
Since black diamonds are composed of pure carbon, they are extra tough. These stones are scratch and chip resistant. They might be strikingly beautiful, but they are also practical.
The stones won’t lose their luster in warmer temperatures either. They can be worn during the warmer months without losing their shine.
And while it’s recommended you remove your jewelry before exposing it to chemicals like lotions, soaps, or sprays, you won’t have to worry if something gets in the way. It’s not abnormal to spill coffee or wine on jewelry, but these stones won’t face discoloration in such instances.
Black diamonds are extremely durable, making them a perfect choice for everyday use. Although they are opaque, the stones are often lustrous, making them a beautiful choice for an engagement ring.
Versatility
While black diamonds are a modern choice for alternative types of engagement rings, they aren’t likely to go out of style. This is due in part to the stone’s versatility.
Unlike many other gemstones, black diamonds pair beautifully with anything you wear. It’s like the little black dress of jewelry!
But these diamonds also pair well with any metal, whether it’s platinum, white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold. You can rest assured you are buying a ring your spouse will love!
Affordability
Despite the rising popularity, the demand for black diamonds is still lower than it is for colorless diamonds. Because colorless diamonds are so popular, diamond dealers and distributors have increased their prices.
The majority of black diamonds on the market are treated. Because black diamonds cannot be certified for their clarity, they have a lower value, but they are far more rare than white diamonds.
Symbolism
The black diamond has had a variety of associations throughout history. In Ancient India, the stone was believed to have been cursed. But Italians believed touching the stone could bring good luck to a marriage.
While black diamonds are often associated with mystery and mystique, the stone carries a number of other meanings. It’s symbolic of purity, fidelity, certainty, eternity, passion, charisma, and creativity.
Many believe that black diamonds represent spirituality. They make for some of the best engagement rings because they can be symbolic of love and spiritual connection.
The diamond is a striking, bold option for anyone looking for a ring that is dramatic, edgy, and unique.
Shopping for Black Diamond Rings
If you are shopping for engagement rings, consider black diamond rings. There are a few things to consider with these unique pieces.
Colorless diamonds are graded by the 4c’s—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Since black diamonds cannot be graded for clarity, they are not certified in the same fashion. Instead, black diamonds receive a Colored Diamond Identification and Origin Report.
Other colored diamonds are graded by the intensity of color. Black diamonds are always classified as fancy black.
The majority of black diamonds on the market are treated. It’s important to note that rare untreated stones are far more expensive than treated stones. A treated black diamond runs at roughly $300 per carat, but untreated stones cost as much as $3000 per carat, on average.
Complexity
When you’re shopping for black diamond jewelry, make sure you pay attention to the complexity of the stone. The less the complexity, the less sparkle and the lower the color value.
For example, a princess cut is far more complex if you’re looking for a large stone that will shine. But round-cut diamonds are the most common, and some of the least complex.
Buyers Beware
If you’re shopping for untreated black diamond jewelry, make sure you do your research. These stones are extremely rare. The only raw black diamonds have been discovered in Africa and Brazil.
But many sellers will do their best to claim a stone is an authentic black diamond. It’s not uncommon to try and pass off stones like moissanite as the real deal.
True black diamonds should be made up of amorphous carbon and graphite. The stones will often have soot-like clarity.
Read reviews of dealers and jewelers before making a purchase. If you’re not sure if a stone is authentic, consider taking it to a professional diamond tester. They will be able to tell you if the stone is the real deal.
How to Set Black Diamonds
Black diamonds sparkle more when surrounded by other minerals. Many rings are designed with white diamond accents.
It’s common to find a pear-shaped or solitude cut black diamond that is surrounded by white pavé diamonds. The diamonds are often circling the stone. But black diamond eternity rings are also popular, with more modern designs that mix the two diamonds.
A mix of white and black diamonds is also commonly found in pendants. The two stones complement each other, creating a striking look that makes both stones sparkle.
If you’re not sure which look to go with, online blogs and Pinterest boards are great places to find inspiration. Consider the personality of the person you’re shopping for, and do your best to work that into the design. Remember, engagement rings will be worn for years to come, so make sure you pick something they won’t grow tired of.
Wearing Black Diamonds
Colored diamonds have been on the rise since Kate Middleton revived them. Now, black diamonds have been discussed in high-fashion pieces everywhere from entertainment television to Vogue.
So how do you make your black diamond jewelry stand out? There aren’t any hard or fast rules. Black diamonds themselves make a statement, so why stop there?
Mix your jewelry with drama, personality, and dimension. Pair black diamonds with other stones, including white diamonds. The look is particularly intriguing for curated ears.
Stack your jewelry with existing pieces in your collection. Mix your metals, because black diamonds go with everything.
Your jewelry should amplify your personality. If you’re wearing black diamonds, you’ve already chosen the edgy option. Lean in and create a look that is monochromatic and striking.
Caring for Black Diamond Jewelry
Black diamond rings and jewelry require little effort to clean and care for. But proper care will ensure diamonds maintain their luster and sparkle.
Because black diamonds have so many inclusions, rough stones are difficult to cut. As a result, they can be cut with slightly less precision than other stones, so it’s important to be careful with larger stones or untreated stones.
But the majority of treated black diamonds are extremely strong and durable. While the stones can get wet, it’s best to remove them when you take a shower. Some lotions and soaps can create residue around the stone which can take away from its shine.
You can clean your black diamond every couple of weeks. Remove the jewelry and submerge it in a bowl of warm water with a few drops of dish soap. Let the jewelry soak, or use a soft toothbrush to scrub it clean.
Avoid using jewelry cleaners or ultrasonic cleaners. These can be abrasive and damage your diamond. You should also remove your black diamond ring before doing strenuous activities like gardening, yard work, or heavy cleaning as the stone is susceptible to breakage.
Black Engagement Rings Are Unforgettable
Finding the perfect engagement ring is challenging. You want something equally unique and timeless. If you’re looking for an alternative to the traditional white diamond ring, consider looking at black diamond rings.
These rings are in high demand thanks to pop culture influences and their affordability, but they are still extremely rare. Buy your partner this one-of-a-kind engagement ring style. They will treasure it forever!
If you’re looking for black diamond engagement rings, we can help. Take a look at our collection today and find the perfect ring for your future spouse!