With 2023 seeing our clients choose bolder engagement rings than ever before, a diamond’s colour and unique patterns are qualities to be cherished. From vivid blues to subtle hints of Champagne, here’s what colour means for natural and lab grown diamond engagement rings.
Bespoke Natural Yellow Diamond engagement rings
HOW IS COLOUR CREATED?
Colour in diamonds is a result of trace elements that are present during their formation. They interact with the carbon to create the colour, and this is true for both natural and lab grown diamonds
- Boron = Blue Diamonds
- Nitrogen = Yellow Diamonds
Pink diamonds are an anomaly in their formation, and their colour is caused by a distortion of the diamond's crystal structure under high pressure - incredible!
Natural Pink Champagne Diamonds for a bespoke bombe ring
HOW ARE THEY GRADED?
Depending on the colour, both lab grown and natural diamonds can be graded on their own ‘Fancy’ colour scale - yes, that’s the name! - and you can learn more about those scales here.
The majority of lab grown coloured diamonds will come under a Fancy colour scale as they are created with a particular colour in mind. This can be more varied with natural diamonds, in particular yellow diamonds, as there are many shades of pale yellow diamonds that simply fall under the D-Z colour range available with standard white diamonds. Learn more about yellow diamonds here.
Natural Cushion Cut Yellow Diamond for a bespoke engagement ring
COLOUR OPTIONS
The primary difference between natural and lab grown coloured diamonds available is the range of colours.
At first, lab grown diamonds tended only to be created in very saturated or intense colours as these were considered most desirable. However, we’re starting to see lighter colours of lab grown diamonds become more readily available, and these feel much more inline with what our clients tend to look for in a ring.
This delicious candy-coloured diamond below is certified with IGI on the Orangy Pink scale.
IGI-certified 1.01ct Fancy Orangy Pink Oval Cut Diamond
Despite their timeless appeal, Champagne, Cognac, Pale Yellow and Fancy Grey diamonds, including their subtle variations, are not available as lab grown diamonds. There is however, a beauty in the inclusions and patterns within some coloured diamonds which is the reason why our clients choose them. From smokey wisps to peppery speckles, these marks of grown give a diamond its personality.
Natural Salt & Pepper Champagne and Grey Diamonds, from our long-term collaborators Misfit Diamonds
GREY DIAMONDS
That leads us nicely onto grey diamonds, specifically salt & pepper. Rachel was one of the first jewellery designers in the UK to work with Salt & Pepper diamonds in her alternative engagement rings and they’ve been a mainstay ever since. Learn more about Grey or Salt & Pepper Diamonds here.
They get their unique appearance from white and black - hence the name - flecks within the diamond that are natural marks of its growth. These inclusions would be eradicated by the precise conditions lab grown diamonds are created in, which is why a lab grown grey diamond does not, at this time, exist.
Natural Salt & Pepper Diamonds in a variety of shades
HOW DOES THIS IMPACT PRICE?
Champagne and paler yellow diamonds, both natural and high clarity, are priced similarly to natural white diamonds and a popular option with our clients looking for an alternative engagement ring.
For lower clarity stones, such as Salt & Pepper Champagne or Grey, the price point is slightly lower. However, pink and blue natural diamonds are phenomenally rare and this is reflected in the price. Lab grown diamonds are a much more feasible option here.
Natural Champagne Diamond bespoke engagement ring
THE FINAL WORD
When choosing between lab grown and natural coloured diamonds, it’s primarily dictated by the colour you are looking for.
For lovers of warm champagne and yellow hues, or a stone with unique markings, a natural diamond is without a doubt the choice for you. Lab grown diamonds simply won’t offer the unique appearance that you’re looking for. However, if it’s colour you love, lab grown diamonds could provide that pop without costing the earth.
To discuss your decision, our team are always on hand to help. Book a digital or in-person appointment at our East London Showroom here.
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