As an SEO writer assistant, I will provide quick answers to key questions in the opening paragraphs to help readers understand the topic of colored diamonds and whether they are worth the extra cost. Diamonds come in many colors, like yellow, pink, blue, and even black. These rare and striking shades command a premium price in the jewelry market. But are the high prices of colored diamonds justified? There are several factors to consider when determining if colored diamonds offer good value compared to traditional colorless diamonds.
What makes colored diamonds special?
Colored diamonds get their hues from chemical impurities present during their formation. The impurities change how light is absorbed and reflected to produce the vibrant colors. This makes naturally colored diamonds extremely rare – they account for less than 1% of mined diamonds. The rarity and uniqueness give colored diamonds their appeal and value.
Some key things that make colored diamonds special:
| Rarity | Less than 1% of diamonds have natural color, with strong saturation even more scarce. |
| Uniqueness | No two colored diamonds are exactly alike in hue, tone, and intensity. |
| Beauty | Vivid colors like pink, blue, and yellow have an exceptional brilliance. |
| Symbolism | Certain colors like pink and blue have special meaning attached. |
The interplay of extreme rarity, visual appeal, and emotional associations is what gives colored diamonds their intrigue and value.
How are colored diamonds graded?
Colored diamonds are graded on the 4Cs just like colorless diamonds, with extra emphasis on the intensity of color. The GIA color grading scale is most widely used:
| Faint | Very light color visibility |
| Very Light | Light color visibility |
| Light | Noticeable but delicate color |
| Fancy Light | More noticeable color |
| Fancy | Intense color saturation |
| Fancy Dark | Deeper color, slightly less saturation |
| Fancy Deep | Rich, darker color |
| Fancy Vivid | Maximum color saturation |
Only diamonds graded Fancy and up are considered true colored diamonds. Within each grade, nuances in secondary color tones and distribution also impact value. A experienced jeweler is needed to properly assess quality.
Do colored diamonds appreciate in value?
Like art and collectibles, the value of colored diamonds is subjective. But in general, yes – high quality colored diamonds have appreciated substantially over the decades.
For example, the Aurora Pink Diamond was valued at $900,000 in 1987. In 2016, it sold for over $31 million at auction – a 34 fold increase! Demand for rare colors like pink has steadily grown while supply is extremely limited.
Other factors impacting appreciation potential:
– Diamond size: Larger stones above 1 carat show the color better.
– Quality grade: Vivid color grades with few inclusions have more value.
– Prestige: Famous diamonds like the Hancock Red carry premiums.
– Provenance: Diamonds from elite jewelry houses appreciate faster.
So colored diamonds can be an investment. But lower quality stones with weak color likely won’t appreciate much. Get expert consultation before buying an investment-grade stone.
How much more expensive are colored diamonds?
On average, colored diamonds are 4-5 times more expensive per carat compared to colorless diamonds:
| 1 Carat D Flawless | $12,000 |
| 1 Carat D VVS1 | $6,000 |
| 1 Carat G VS1 | $4,000 |
| 1 Carat Fancy Yellow VS2 | $15,000 |
| 1 Carat Fancy Pink VS2 | $20,000 |
| 1 Carat Fancy Vivid Blue VS1 | $50,000 |
But prices vary widely depending on the intensity of color. Imperfect faint and very light colors may be only 20-30% higher than equivalent colorless diamonds. While rare vivid shades can be 10-50 times more!
Within the same color grade, secondary hues like purple-pink or orange-yellow also impact pricing. Overall, expect to pay a significant premium for colored diamonds.
Are colored diamond engagement rings a good choice?
Colored diamonds can make for beautiful and unique engagement rings. Some pros and cons to consider:
| Pros | Cons |
| – Distinct from traditional diamonds | – Much higher cost for quality stones |
| – Match recipient’s style | – Limited resale market if color tastes change |
| – Conveys creativity & customization | – Delicate colors can face-up pale in small sizes |
| – Can complement skin tone | – Imperfect colors lose appeal over time |
Pay close attention to the recipient’s preferences and budget considerations. Colored diamonds work best for those wanting a personalized ring, and are less about maximizing size. Make sure to buy only GIA certified stones from reputable jewelers.
Are chocolate diamonds worth buying?
Chocolate diamonds refer to natural fancy brown diamonds marketed under the Le Vian brand. The term is essentially a branding strategy that increased consumer demand for brown diamonds.
In terms of value:
| Pros | Cons |
| – Lower price than most fancy colors | – Brown not considered a desirable diamond color |
| – Still natural and rare | – Lower resale value compared to other natural colors |
| – Unique look | – Synthetics and treatments easily mimic brown color |
While marketed well, brown diamonds are not the most appealing. But Chocolate diamonds can offer an affordable way to buy natural colored diamonds, if that is important. Evaluate based on personal preferences, not investment potential.
Should I buy colored diamond jewelry online?
Caution is advised when buying colored diamonds online, as judging color quality from photos or videos alone is difficult. Some best practices:
– Only buy GIA or AGS certified stones, so color grade is reliable.
– Prioritize established retailers with fair return policies and money-back guarantees.
– Be realistic – extremely saturated vivid shades will be priced higher.
– Ask for additional photos, videos and viewing under different light.
– Buy the diamond separately first if setting in a custom ring or pendant.
– Opt for lower color intensities like Fancy Light if buying online.
There are deals to be had online, but lack of in-person inspection is risky for expensive colored diamonds. Whenever possible, see before you buy.
Conclusion
With their captivating colors and extreme rarity, high quality natural colored diamonds offer allure unmatched by common colorless diamonds. The high prices reflect genuine scarcity. While not an investment vehicle for everyone, colored diamonds have appreciated significantly over time. They can make for memorable engagement rings or heirloom jewelry. But caution is warranted, as lower grade colors are poor values. Careful selection based on color intensity, quality characteristics, and intended use can lead to good satisfaction.
