GEMSTONE GUIDES

A coloured diamond, also known as a fancy diamond or a fancy coloured diamond, is a unique type of diamond that comes in various colours like yellow, blue, pink, and even black. These colours occur when different elements squeeze their way into the diamond while its forming. These diamonds are one of the most popular gemstones in the world and are a great choice if you are looking for a diamond that holds a unique and individual beauty.

The only difference between coloured diamonds and traditional colourless diamonds is the presence of chemical impurities or structural defects during their formation process in coloured diamonds. While colourless diamonds, also known as white diamonds, are transparent and lack any noticeable colour, appearing clear or icy white, coloured diamonds come in an array of colours from yellow, pink, brown and even black.

Each coloured diamond holds its own unique symbolism. For example, yellow diamonds (also known as canary diamonds) represent joy and optimism with their cheerful hues. While blue diamonds have a more calming meaning as they symbolise tranquility and wisdom. Pink and red diamonds embody romance and passion, as well as strength. Black diamonds are also known to represent mystery and power. 

With each colour of diamond having its own meaning and symbolism, fancy coloured diamonds are a gemstone with a rich and meaningful background.

As with colourless diamonds, fancy coloured diamonds have a hardness level of 10, making them the hardest naturally occurring material in the world. This level of exceptional hardness makes coloured diamonds a perfect choice for everyday wear, meaning they are a great choice for an engagement ring. 

The hardness level of coloured diamonds doesn't vary depending on which colour it exhibits. For example, green diamonds are just as hard as their pink or yellow counterparts. 

Lab grown diamonds are taking the world by storm at the moment, with their lower price point and ready availability, they are a great choice for those who are looking for a fantastic quality diamond with a smaller price tag. Lab grown fancy coloured diamonds are also readily available on the market, and with the ability of lab grown gemstones to achieve a more specific colour and clarity, finding the perfect coloured diamond is certainly possible.

Coloured diamonds are among most expensive gemstones in the world. This is due to their exceptional rarity and high demand. The quality for each individual diamond can be decided based on 4 factors, cut, clarity, carat weight and colour (the 4Cs). This means that coloured diamonds with a more vivid colour, bigger carat weight, better clarity and more skilful cut will be priced higher. 

Some fancy diamond colours are rarer than others, for example red diamonds are the hardest to come by so they will be more expensive than other, more common colours such as brown.

Natural coloured diamonds are generally more expensive than clear diamonds. This is because they are harder to find naturally, making them a more sought after option. Lab grown coloured diamonds can be a cheaper option if you're working with a budget in mind.

Compared to colourless diamonds, fancy coloured diamonds are rare and considered more unique. Among coloured diamonds, some are rarer than others. For example, a pink diamond with a vibrant colour saturation are far rarer to find naturally than a pale salt and pepper diamond.

Finding a naturally occurring coloured diamond that has the desired colour, cut, clarity and carat weight is also challenging. Coloured diamonds with a higher carat weight, crystal clear clarity and a saturated, vivid colour are exceptionally rare. Which is one of the reasons why lab grown gemstones have gained so much popularity, the control that laboratories provide means that coloured diamonds can be produced to hold the desired quality for a lower price.

The rarest colour for diamonds is often considered to be red. Red diamonds are exceptionally rare, with only a handful known to exist worldwide!

Coloured diamonds come in a wide range of colours, tones and hues. From vivid blues and pinks to radiant yellows and oranges, fancy coloured diamonds have a wide spectrum of colour, making them the perfect stone if you are looking for a gem that's both unique and luxurious.

Yellow diamonds, also known as canary diamonds, are loved for their warm, sunny tones. These stones are one of the most popular diamond colour choices because of their rarity and unique charm. If you are looking for a vibrant and joyful gemstone, yellow diamonds could be the perfect choice for you.

Pink diamonds are exceptionally rare, with only a small percentage of diamonds mined exhibiting this coveted colour. Due to their scarcity and stunning appearance, pink diamonds hold a special allure and are highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts. 

They are often regarded as symbols of romance, femininity, and elegance, making them a sought-after choice for engagement rings and other fine jewellery pieces, where they add a touch of timeless sophistication and undeniable beauty.

Brown diamonds are often referred to as champagne diamonds, cognac diamonds, or chocolate diamonds depending on their shade. They have gained popularity in recent years due to their warm, earthy tones and affordability compared to other coloured diamonds.

The intensity of the brown colour can vary, ranging from light champagne to deep cognac or chocolate tones. Despite their more subdued appearance, brown diamonds have a unique allure and are increasingly appreciated for their natural beauty and versatility, adding a touch of understated elegance to any piece of jewellery

Green diamonds range in tone from subtle pastel greens to deep, rich shades, with intensity and saturation greatly influencing their rarity and value. These diamonds are esteemed for their unique beauty and scarcity, making them highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike. 

Green diamonds are often associated with qualities such as growth, renewal, and abundance, adding a touch of natural elegance and intrigue to any jewellery piece they adorn.