Black diamonds guide from our in-house gemologist
When we think of diamonds, we usually picture shiny, clear gems that sparkle brilliantly. But there are more types and colors of diamonds, and today we want to share with you one of them, the black diamond.
Black diamonds are also known as carbonados, and they have a unique charm that sets them apart from regular diamonds.
Today, known as "Fancy blacks," black diamonds with their natural color were once looked down upon in history used to be dismissed as "industrial diamonds". In his 1928 book "Diamond: A Descriptive Treatise," author J. R. Sutton compared them unfavorably to black sealing wax, emphasizing their lack of appeal. Until the latter part of the 20th century, black diamonds didn't attract much attention from consumers. However, their popularity began to rise when independent jewelry designers started incorporating them into their pieces.
Why black diamonds are black?
Investigations into the origin of color in black diamonds have emerged quite recently. Presently, we have a better understanding that the primary source of natural color in black diamonds is attributed to extensive amounts of tiny mineral inclusions, like graphite, pyrite, or hematite, which are distributed throughout the gemstone. Additionally, these diamonds might possess various cleavages or fractures.
Naturally colored black diamonds are usually entirely non-transparent, and their pronounced luster gives them an almost metallic look. Due to their significant inclusions, these diamonds are more fragile than clear colorless diamonds.
The majority of black diamonds available for jewelry, including engagement rings, have undergone color enhancement treatments. These diamonds often start as gray stones with significant inclusions and fractures. They are then exposed to a high-temperature/low-pressure treatment, which causes the fractures to graphitize and become black. Alternatively, artificial irradiation of diamonds with off-colors can result in such a deep green hue that the diamond appears black.
Mining
All diamond mines around the world produce various kinds and colors of diamonds. There is no specific link between black-colored diamonds and a particular origin. Black diamonds originate from different parts of the world and, like nearly all diamonds today, are cut in India.
Prices
Black diamonds are generally more budget-friendly than diamonds of other colors. However, it's essential to note that prices can vary based on factors such as size, shape, and the quality of the cut. As of writing this blog post, we have a 0.86-carat pear-cut diamond ring available for $1,650 and an elegant matching band priced at $1,300. Based on our recent projects, you should budget around $1,500 per carat. Please keep in mind that these prices are in Canadian dollars, as all our black diamond rings are handmade in Montreal, Canada.
Maintenance
Just like other diamonds, black diamonds need some care to stay looking nice. They're still very hard and tough, but they can get scratched or chipped if you're not careful, particularly, since the main reason for the black color is the presence of multiple inner micro fracture. So, make sure to handle them gently and clean them with mild soap and warm water to keep them looking their best.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about black diamonds, see them in person, or receive a free consultation on a black diamond engagement ring or custom project with our certified gemologist, please contact us at info@loftbijoux.com. All our pieces are handmade in Montreal, Canada, and we'll be delighted to create your precious jewel.