How to Buy a Black Diamond Engagement Ring

Colorless diamonds are the most valuable diamonds, however, black diamonds have become more popular as buyers seek an edgier look. Once only used for industrial purposes, a black diamond, or carbonado, is just as hard as a colorless stone. If you’re interested in a black diamond engagement ring, here are some things to know about buying one.

What Is a Black Diamond?

A black diamond is essentially a super-included gemstone with so many inclusions, that it appears black. While colorless diamonds are more valuable, black diamonds are actually prized for their high number of inclusions. They have a mysterious, cool, rock ‘n’ roll vibe and are not to mention much less expensive than their colorless counterparts.

Like all diamonds, they’re made of crystallized carbon. The color is often created by dense graphite inclusions. Some black diamonds are irradiated to turn them from a lighter color to a dark green that appears black. Internal clarity and cut aren’t as important because these properties are less evident, while the more color, the better. Black diamonds shine but don’t sparkle, a quality known as adamantine luster.

Types of Black Diamonds

The two types of black diamonds are:

• Natural Black Diamonds: Get their color from graphite inclusions and are only found in Central Africa and Brazil. Their rarity means these diamonds are more expensive than treated stones. A naturally black diamond tends to have more fissures and spots; if on the girdle, these can make the stone more brittle and vulnerable to chipping.
• Treated Black Diamonds: Colorless diamonds that have been heated or irradiated to darken them. Those with many inclusions are often treated to hide undesirable features. While treated diamonds look similar to natural ones, they are less expensive. A diamond grading report will indicate whether the gem is natural or treated.

A variation of black diamonds are salt and pepper diamonds. They have many inclusions, yet are translucent (black diamonds are almost completely opaque). Most have a unique black and white speckled look.

Pros of Black Diamonds

Buying a black diamond engagement ring is an advantage because it:

• Is just as hard as a colorless diamond and won’t scratch easily.
• Won’t lose its shine or luster; the natural shine will remain over time.
• Costs just $300 per carat; natural black diamonds range from $1,500 to $3,000 per carat.

*Generally, a black diamond is half the price per carat as a colorless one.

About Black Diamond Size

A black diamond weighs more than a colorless diamond of the same dimensions. This is because the color is maximized by cutting deeper into the stone. When comparing diamonds, look at the size in millimeters and the carat weight. The larger the diamond, the more brittle it tends to be (the color is created by an abundance of tiny fractures) and the more surface features it’s likely to have. Small black diamonds are less likely to fracture.

What Settings and Metals Work Best with a Black Diamond?

Black diamonds go with any ring setting. You should therefore consider your budget so you can determine the most affordable carat size and setting. Gold or platinum provides good color contrast with a black diamond, but the metal you pair it with is totally up to your preference and personal style.

Shop at Jeweler’s Touch for Your Black Diamond Engagement Ring

At Jeweler’s Touch, we aim to ensure a positive buying experience. We’re committed to educating you about diamonds and helping in the decision-making process. A lifetime warranty is included with all our engagement and wedding rings, and you can opt into our Lifetime Diamond Upgrade plan to receive credit toward a larger diamond. Feel free to browse our collections or get in touch about our custom design services. For assistance, schedule an in-store, virtual, or curbside appointment or call 714-579-1616 today.