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Let's start by correcting a popular misconception: this diamond (carbonado) is actually 100% natural. The stone is mined in alluvial deposits in Brazil and the Central African Republic. A black diamond is more porous, and therefore not as hard, as other colourless and coloured diamonds.
Black diamonds are found in just three places: Brazil, the Central African Republic and South Africa
Actually, black diamonds aren't to be found in every diamond mine. On the contrary, there are only three places in the world you can come across the black precious stones. Popular scientific belief has it that they derive from a meteorite that struck Earth millions of years ago. The residue is said to have landed in Brazil and the Central African Republic. The meteorite is believed to have impacted Earth during the age of the Pangea supercontinent. At that time, South America bordered still to Africa. So, very occasionally one is still found in South Africa.
As you already know, different meanings are attributed to coloured gemstones. The black diamond is said to represent action, passion and energy, but also authority and power. Do you have little faith in this symbolism? If so, lend your own significance to your black diamond jewellery: the stone is rare and valuable, so the jewellery is a token of genuine love.
A ring set with this precious stone looks rather macho. This is why carbonado diamonds are becoming an ever-popular choice for men to have their engagement and wedding rings set with. The stone really comes into its own with a flat pave setting. The ultimate formula for a unique men's wedding ring.
But women are finding this diamond colour more and more appealing too
Women are just as quick to be seduced by the appeal of a black diamond engagement ring. A slightly rounded ring lends the piece an exceptionally elegant look and feel. You could as a couple, therefore, opt for a black diamond wedding and engagement ring set.
These diamonds belong in the fancy coloured category. A lot of the coloured gemstones are costlier, but that applies less so to the darker variants. Indeed, black absorbs light, so the stone will be less lustrous, which results in a lower price. Black carbonado diamonds are nearly as rare as pink or blue diamonds. In fact, black diamonds come at roughly the same price as colourless diamonds.
Tip: Adding colourless diamonds to jewellery lend the piece a softer appearance
In general, black diamonds aren't the most popular, but over the years a few have earned worldwide renown.
Black diamonds look exceptional in jewellery. In recent years, black carbonado diamond engagement and wedding rings have risen significantly in popularity; not just with men, but with women too. For example, actress Sarah Jessica Parker’s Sex and the City character, Carrie Bradshaw, received a carbonado diamond engagement ring from Mr Big. Black diamonds also look fabulous set in cufflinks or as a solitaire diamond in a necklace.
Yellow and red gold draw the eye just that bit too much. White gold or platinum are the obvious choices, as they provide a beautiful colour contrast. Both precious metals highlight the black colour to perfection. This applies to all black diamond jewellery, be it a wedding ring or cufflinks. Platinum is more durable; white gold is less expensive. The choice is yours.
Be sure to also consider our tailor-made jewellery service. Working with our experts you can design black diamond jewellery entirely how you want it.
You now know everything you need about black diamonds. Needless to say, there is just as much to talk about when it comes to other coloured diamonds. Read the blogs below to glean more about coloured diamonds in general, as well as a few specific colours.