Head to the Dark Side of Diamonds

When asked to picture diamond rings we stereotypically create an image of a white gold or gold band surrounding one or more colourless diamonds with maximum shine and glimmer. But although other colours are now being popularised such as pink or yellow, black diamonds are frequently forgotten and are often the most beautiful of all.

Black diamonds are usually quite small, rather valuable and defined as dark grey, a very dark green or 100% black. The Natural black diamonds receive their colour from abnormalities in their crystal lattice structure. They were believed to have originated from a meteorite that struck Africa a very long time ago and this is where they are almost exclusively found and mined by De Beers Consolidated Mines. Here they are valued for their lack of colour and considered as "fancy diamonds" which adds to the heightened interest in them.

Diamond jewellery is often not very appealing to men as diamonds are usually considered a feminine feature of diamond engagement rings and other pieces of ladies jewellery. But because of the dark colour in black diamonds and the lack of sparkle compared to a colourless original, they are becoming increasingly popular in men's wedding jewellery. Not only do black diamonds look stunning and suitably masculine, they can also be matched with tiny black diamonds featured in the brides wedding piece. They also look great in contrast with the gold band such as those in gold engagement rings.  

If black diamonds are what you have decided to choose as important jewellery for the occasion, first, be sure to check for a few tricks in the diamond trade. Not all black diamonds are given their colour by nature.  Artificial colour can sometimes be used by some dishonest dealers and although they are required to disclose any treatments on their items, many do not.

The word black featured in some diamonds names can often be confused as to what it really is and black diamonds are usually assumed to be in the same family as Radium Diamonds (Smoky Quartz), Alaska Black Diamonds (Hematite) and Nevada Black Diamonds (Obsidian) so make sure you don't make the same mistake.

When choosing the stone for your perfect ring make sure you consider the future of this piece on your finger forever. Instead of opting for fashionable features choose ones that will continue to bring joy and love every time you look at your hand. Black diamonds may possibly be the answer.