Choosing Alternative Diamonds for Engagement Rings

You have many stone options for engagement rings, from icy diamonds to colored gemstones to vibrant diamonds. More brides-to-be want an engagement ring that stands out, and one way to do that is to choose colored diamonds (aka fancy diamonds) over traditional white diamonds. They add personality, originality, and a modern twist to engagement rings and definitely make a statement.

You might be wondering what gives colored diamonds their unique hues. Colored diamonds are created when trace elements or structural irregularities affect their carbon structure during formation. For example, boron creates blue diamonds, nitrogen can make diamonds yellow or brown, and deformations in the crystal lattice create pink or red diamonds. Natural colored diamonds, especially pink, blue, and green ones, are rare. Only about 1 in 10,000 diamonds has a natural color.

The Color Spectrum of Diamonds

You'll find diamonds in a wide range of colors. Some, like yellows or browns, are more common. Others, like blues, greens, pinks, and blacks, are rarer. Here are some favorite examples to show you the wide range of colored diamond options:

• Fancy Pink Contemporary Halo Engagement Ring
• Fancy Intense Yellow Oval Halo Ring
• The Blue Note Ring
• The Yorkville Ring

Symbolism and Meaning behind Colors

Each diamond color holds unique significance, so you can choose one that resonates with personal values or relationship meaning. Blue diamonds, associated with peace, trust, and loyalty, are ideal for those seeking calmness and commitment in their lives. Pink diamonds signify romance, tenderness, and admiration, symbolizing a gentle, affectionate love. Yellow diamonds, often linked to joy, optimism, and warmth, can appeal to those with a bright and positive outlook. Green diamonds, symbolizing growth and renewal, might attract those who value resilience and new beginnings. Meanwhile, black diamonds are often chosen for their strength and sophistication–this resonates with individuals who appreciate mystery and independence.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Colored Diamond

When it comes to colored diamonds, understanding hue, saturation, and tone is vital to finding that perfect gem. You want your colored diamond to have a vibrant color. Hue refers to the actual color of the diamond, while saturation describes how intense or vivid that color is. A diamond with high saturation will pop more, making it eye-catching. Tone deals with how light or dark the color appears, which can affect its overall appeal.

Unlike traditional white diamonds, where clarity and cut are paramount, colored diamonds are evaluated more on their color intensity. So, you might find that a slightly included colored diamond can still be stunning if its hue and saturation are vibrant.

Styles and Settings that Complement Colored Diamonds

Once you've selected the colored diamond, you can check out different settings that enhance the color and shape of your unique stone. After all, the colored diamond is the star of the engagement ring. Halos, bezels, and pavé bands can help make the color pop with some contrast of white diamonds.

You'll also need to consider the metal's hue so that you can see if a rose or yellow gold will complement your diamond color. Some metals add depth and enhance the stone's warmth and depth, like the rose gold in this Fancy Pink Vintage Glamour Ribbon Swirl Engagement Ring.

Cost and Rarity of Different Colors

The pricing of mined colored diamonds varies significantly based on rarity and demand, with colors like blue and pink typically being the most expensive. This premium is largely due to their scarcity in nature—only a small percentage of diamonds form with these hues, making them rare finds. Yellow and brown diamonds are more abundant and thus more affordable. Rarity, along with the desirability of blue and pink diamonds for their unique beauty and symbolism, drive their prices significantly higher in the market, making them some of the most sought-after and valuable colored diamonds.

Technology has allowed labs to create colored diamonds, which has helped make lab grown colored diamonds more budget-friendly and accessible. You can easily get a high-quality, fancy lab grown diamond engagement ring at an affordable price. This helps create more dreams for a colored diamond engagement ring within reach, like this Fancy Pink Glamorous Pear Side Stone Engagement Ring or Fancy Pink Fine Line 3 Stone Pear Engagement Ring. Both are affordable options with stunning pink and traditional diamonds.

Why Choose a Colored Diamond for an Engagement Ring?

An engagement ring with a colored diamond is exceptionally unique. They allow the bride-to-be to express their individual taste and personality by choosing an engagement ring with a pop of color. Colored diamonds can’t help but make a statement, and a quality fancy stone will be cherished for years. Picking out a unique ring allows couples to create unusual heirlooms that will be discussed for generations. A special ring reflects your unique love story and allows your story to be part of your legacy as your ring gets passed along to future generations.

Caring for Colored Diamonds

Caring for colored diamonds helps to keep them sparkling and vibrant, and some may require a bit more attention than traditional white diamonds. To maintain their brilliance, clean your engagement ring regularly using a gentle solution of warm, soapy water and a soft brush–avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the stone. Always handle colored diamonds with care. Diamonds are incredibly hard, so store them in a soft pouch or a separate compartment in your diamond jewelry box to prevent scratching other pieces. For colored diamonds, regular inspections by a professional jeweler is also a good idea, as they can help ensure the settings remain secure and that the stones don't lose their stunning luster.