Guide to black diamond jewellery
Black diamonds are a bold and unique alternative to traditional diamonds. Rare and highly sought after, black diamonds are an excellent choice for alternative engagement rings, earrings and pendants. They're also a great choice as an accent stone for wedding rings.
What are black diamonds?
Black diamonds get their colour from large concentrations of graphite and pyrite inclusions. Unlike colourless diamonds, they are opaque. They range from dark grey to completely black. Natural black diamonds are the rarest, but most black diamonds are grey diamonds that have been exposed to high heat and pressure, which forces internal fractures to turn to graphite and intensifies the blackness of the stone.
Like colourless diamonds, black diamonds rate 10 on the Mohs scale. Unlike colourless diamonds, they are formed from many small crystals bonded together, rather than from a single crystal.
What are black diamonds called?
Treated black diamonds are simply known as black diamonds, whilst natural black diamonds are also known as Carbonado. They are found primarily in Brazil and the Central African Republic.
Are black diamonds a good choice for engagement rings?
Black diamonds make an excellent choice for engagement rings because they offer a bold alternative to colourless diamonds whilst retaining all the same qualities, including hardness and durability.
Natural Vs treated black diamonds Vs onyx
Natural black diamonds develop their colour through a long geological process spanning billions of years. Treated black diamonds, by contrast, usually start as light grey stones and are treated with either irradiation or high-pressure, high-temperature processing to enhance their appearance. Natural black diamonds are extremely rare and priced accordingly, whereas treated diamonds offer the same look and durability at a lower price point; however, treatment must be disclosed at the point of sale.
Onyx is black in appearance but rates only 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale, making it more susceptible to damage than diamonds. It is considerably less expensive than both natural and treated black diamonds.
How are black diamonds graded?
Black diamonds are graded differently to white or colourless diamonds. Whilst most of the 4Cs still apply, clarity is the exception due to the opaque nature of the stone. For black diamonds, cut quality and the uniform spread of colour across the stone's face matter much more. Whereas colourless diamonds are graded between D–Z on the colour scale, black diamonds are assessed on a simpler basis: they either qualify as fancy black diamonds or they do not.
As black diamonds are opaque, they do not offer the same light return as colourless diamonds. Instead, the cut defines how effectively they reflect light.
What jewellery suits black diamonds best?
Black diamonds suit a wide range of jewellery styles. White gold and platinum are popular choices because they create a sharp contrast between the metal and the stone. However, yellow and rose gold have become increasingly popular in recent years for a more editorial aesthetic.
Bezel settings are extremely popular for both men's and women's black diamond jewellery. Not only do they protect the stone, but they also give it a sleek, clean architectural look. Another popular choice is a halo setting, with a black diamond in the centre and clear stones surrounding it for a striking, contrast-driven look.
Eternity rings with alternating black and white stones are a particularly striking and bold choice, popular as statement pieces.
Mens Black Diamond Eternity Ring
Black diamonds translate well into earrings, pendants and bracelets. Stud earrings with a bezel or rubover setting offer an easy-to-wear option suitable for everyday use.
In men's jewellery, black diamonds appear frequently in signet rings, cufflinks and chain pendants, where their understated quality suits the aesthetic well.
Black diamonds from Shining Diamonds
Here at Shining Diamonds, we have a vast collection of fancy black diamonds for every look, whether you're making a bold engagement statement or looking for a striking piece of jewellery. Browse our full range today, or book an appointment at one of our showrooms to try different options in person.
