Black diamonds are some of the most beautiful and rare stones you can find. These diamonds have gained popularity in the last few years after being spotted worn by celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence, Angelina Jolie and Gwyneth Paltrow on stunning pieces of jewelry. If you’re considering purchasing a black diamond, here are five things to know about these beauties.
1. Black diamonds include graphite. Graphite inclusions are what give these diamonds their color. Unlike other colored diamonds, black diamonds are completely opaque, and are available only in one shade of black.
2. Black diamonds can be natural or created. Natural diamonds are referred to as “Fancy Black”. The term “fancy” refers to the color intensity and indicates that the diamonds were naturally created. “Enhanced” black diamonds are a man made creation, and are not classified by gemological societies. Enhanced diamonds are created by burning low quality colorless diamonds until these obtain a black color. Enhanced black diamonds are not nearly as valuable as Fancy Black diamonds.
3. Black diamonds are less expensive than other colored diamonds. Though fairly rare, these are not as expensive as other colored diamonds. In addition, black diamonds are not as expensive as high quality colorless diamonds. Because the diamonds are black and opaque, clarity is not an issue, so there is not as great a variation in price from one stone to another. You will find a significant price increase when choosing especially large diamonds, simply because these are rare.
4. Black diamonds are found in fewer locations around the world than other diamonds. Natural black diamonds are only found in Brazil and Central Africa.
5. Black diamonds are not considered investment diamonds. Investment diamonds are those predicted to rise considerably in value over the next few years, making these appropriate for purchase solely as an investment. While black diamonds have become extremely popular as a jewelry trend, these are not recommended as investment diamonds. For investment purposes, choose pink, red or blue diamonds, instead.
If you’re choosing a black diamond for jewelry, be certain to shop only for Fancy grade diamonds to ensure your piece is a good investment. Most reputable jewelers will not carry enhanced diamonds, but there are many of these found on the Internet. Choose your jewelry carefully to ensure that you have not only a beautiful piece of black diamond jewelry but that you have a piece that will retain its value, as well.
