While there are many different coloured diamonds out there, the demand for black diamonds is on the rise. The popularity for non-conventional engagement rings has increased in recent years, so the market for black diamonds has burgeoned. Not only can they provide stunning contrasts in all kinds of jewellery, they can also dress up or dress down an outfit, making them more versatile.
Despite the increasing prevalence of black diamonds, there’s still a lot of misinformation and misconception surrounding them. Are they real? Are they expensive? Are they of low quality? Here, you’ll find the answers to these questions, and more.
Do black diamonds really exist?
They may not be that common, but black diamonds are as real as white diamonds. There aretwo types of black diamonds: genuine black diamonds that occur naturally and white diamonds that have been artificially changed to appear black. They’re both real but there’s a huge difference between them. And if you plan on buying one, you should know that there’s also an enormous difference in value.
Natural black diamonds
Natural black diamonds are also called “fancy black diamonds” or “carbonados”. And they are only found inBrazil and Africa, making them extremely rare.
Although vastly different in colour, black diamonds have the same chemical composition as white diamonds. But with their polycrystalline structure, they don’t reflect light. They also have a very high amount of inclusions, such as clusters of graphite, and amorphous carbon, which makes them appear black.
As to how black diamonds were created, some people say they formed within the earth under high pressure, while others think they came from space on an asteroid that fell to earth around 2 million years ago.
Treated black diamonds
White diamonds that have been changed to black diamonds are also called “colourless treated black diamonds” or “black coloured diamonds”. White diamonds that have a high amount of inclusions are used to create this type of black diamond, so they tend to be of very low value.
White diamonds with many inclusions are turned into black diamonds with the help of treatments like heat or irradiation. And while you can find treated black diamonds in jewellery, they’re mostly used as industrial-grade diamonds, used for cutting and grinding tools.
Treated black diamonds are more common than natural black diamonds. So when buying jewellery with black diamonds, keep in mind that man-made black diamonds do exist.
Are black diamonds expensive and of low quality?
Black diamonds are usually cheaper than white diamonds because of their colour and structure, especially treated black diamonds. However, they’re not low-quality stones, as even the treatment process doesn’t affect their durability. But since they have many inclusions and are porous, cutting and polishing them is more difficult, which could result in blemishes and nicks on the surface. But, professional cutters can craft black diamonds with a smooth and polished surface.
You can expect to pay around $300-$500 per carat for small black diamonds below 0.50 carats. For 5 to 6-carat diamonds, you could possibly pay up to $700-$800 per carat, compared to $30,000 per carat for a white diamond that’s similar in size. In some cases, a 1-carat round black diamond with a nice finish can cost around $1,400-$1,700.
Black diamonds for engagement rings
Black diamonds are often used to create dress rings in combination with white diamonds, earrings, and pendants. This means it is suitable to buy black diamonds for engagement rings! The black diamond engagement ring became popular due to Mr. Big putting one on Carrie Bradshaw’s finger in Sex and the City 2 – a 5-carat black diamond ring set in 18-carat white gold.
If you are looking to think outside-of-the-box when it comes to engagement rings, a black diamond looks especially great in a white setting, as it makes the stone stand out. But black diamonds also look good set in silver, platinum, and white gold. For a much stronger contrast, try mixing black diamonds with white diamonds, as their sparkle will further enhance the appearance of your jewellery.
If you’re concerned about straying from the classic style, don’t hesitate to speak to the experts at Australian Diamond Brokers and you’ll soon see that a black diamond engagement ring can be just as good as the classic white diamond engagement ring. In fact, black diamond engagement rings are trending! It’s a bold way to show your style, and black diamonds are chic, mysterious, and cool. What’s more, black diamonds symbolise everlasting love and eternity.
Where to buy black diamonds?
As you can see, black diamonds are in fact real and affordable. They’re also interesting and exotic, and have unparalleled durability. So where can you buy them? AtAustralian Diamond Brokers, you’ll find natural and non-heat treated black diamonds. If you’d like to purchase a black diamond engagement ring,contact us today and we can help you find the perfect ring for that special someone in your life.
by Australian Diamond Brokers : July 20th 2017 Come visit our store or browse our website to find out more.