Black Diamonds
When most people think of diamonds, they picture colorless stones sparkling with brilliance—but diamonds actually occur in an incredible range of natural colors. Beyond traditional white or clear gems, diamonds can be found in shades of red, pink, blue, yellow, green, orange, purple, champagne, gray, and even fancy white or fancy black. Among these, black diamonds are some of the most mysterious and striking of all.
In short: Natural black diamonds (carbonado) get their color from dense graphite, hematite, and pyrite inclusions — opaque rather than transparent, with Mohs 10 hardness. Treated black diamonds (heat or irradiation) dominate the US market and cost roughly 60-80% less than natural carbonados. Black diamonds rose to prominence after Carrie Bradshaw's Sex and the City engagement scene. Pair with white gold or platinum for highest contrast.
Natural black diamonds stand apart from other fancy colored diamonds because of their completely opaque appearance and dark, metallic luster. They are undeniably beautiful, rare, and surprisingly affordable compared to other natural fancy colored stones. Their bold, unconventional aesthetic and rich symbolism—often associated with strength, power, and eternal love—make them a favorite for modern jewelry lovers. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about these fascinating gems.
ARE BLACK DIAMONDS REAL?
Yes. Black diamonds are 100% real diamonds. However, it’s important to distinguish between two types: natural fancy black diamonds and treated (enhanced) black diamonds.
Natural fancy black diamonds form deep within the earth and exhibit their dark color naturally due to inclusions of graphite and other minerals. Treated or heated black diamonds, by contrast, start as lower-quality white or gray diamonds that are artificially altered through heat or irradiation to achieve their black hue. Both are genuine diamonds, but only natural fancy black diamonds hold significant rarity and long-term value.
ARE BLACK DIAMONDS EXPENSIVE?
Compared to other fancy colored diamonds, black diamonds are relatively affordable. Treated black diamonds can start from as little as $300 per carat, while natural fancy black diamonds typically range from $3,000 to $5,000 per carat or more depending on size, cut, and origin.
Their affordability, combined with their bold aesthetic, has made black diamonds a popular choice for engagement rings and designer jewelry pieces that stand out from the crowd.
WHAT ARE BLACK DIAMONDS AND HOW ARE THEY FORMED?
Black diamonds are genuine diamonds that owe their color to an exceptionally high concentration of mineral inclusions, primarily graphite, pyrite, and hematite, dispersed throughout the crystal lattice. This creates a completely opaque appearance that absorbs rather than reflects light, giving the stone its dark and mysterious look.
Unlike other fancy colored diamonds—which derive color from trace elements like nitrogen or boron—black diamonds get their hue from these dense inclusions and internal fractures. The result is a diamond so unique that it only occurs in one intensity level: Fancy Black. Only red and white diamonds share this singular classification within the GIA color grading system.
Over the years, black diamonds have risen sharply in popularity, especially after celebrities began wearing them on red carpets and in engagement jewelry, cementing their reputation as modern luxury icons.
WHAT ARE ENHANCED BLACK DIAMONDS?
Enhanced or treated black diamonds are created by heating or irradiating low-quality white or gray diamonds until they achieve a uniform black color. While this method makes black diamonds more accessible in price, the process is entirely artificial, and such stones are not graded by the GIA as “fancy colored.”
Although visually similar, enhanced diamonds lack the natural geological history and rarity that make natural fancy black diamonds so prized by collectors and connoisseurs.
WHERE DO BLACK DIAMONDS COME FROM?
Natural black diamonds are extremely rare and are found in only a few parts of the world, primarily Brazil and Central Africa. Some scientists believe they may have an extraterrestrial origin, forming from carbon-rich material delivered by meteorites billions of years ago—a theory that only adds to their mystique.
WHERE TO BUY BLACK DIAMONDS?
If you’re looking for a truly special stone, always choose a natural fancy black diamond rather than a treated one. Naturally black stones owe their color to the earth itself, giving each gem an authentic and organic beauty. For those on a smaller budget, treated or heated black diamonds still offer a dramatic and stylish appearance at a more affordable price point.
Rêve Diamonds offers an exceptional selection of Fancy Black Diamonds and treated black diamonds, available loose or set in custom-designed jewelry pieces handcrafted in our New York and Los Angeles workshops.
BLACK DIAMONDS ON THE RED CARPET
Black diamonds have become a symbol of individuality and bold sophistication among celebrities. One of the most iconic moments came in Sex and the City, when Mr. Big presented Carrie Bradshaw with a black diamond engagement ring—saying he chose it because she was “not like anyone else.”
In real life, stars such as Carmen Electra, Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Lawrence, Cate Blanchett, Evan Rachel Wood, and Sarah Jessica Parker have all worn black diamond jewelry at major events. Gwyneth Paltrow famously wore a black diamond pavé bracelet at the 2011 Emmy Awards, while Angelina Jolie gifted Brad Pitt a pair of black diamond and emerald serpent cufflinks—custom-made as a symbol of power and passion.
FAMOUS BLACK DIAMONDS
The most legendary black diamond is the Black Orlov, a 67.50-carat cushion-cut gem known as the “Eye of Brahma.” Surrounded by 108 white diamonds and suspended from a necklace of 124 smaller stones, it was said to have been stolen from a Hindu temple in India, inspiring tales similar to the Hope Diamond’s curse.
Other renowned black diamonds include:
- The Spirit of de Grisogono: A 312.24-carat Moghul-cut diamond, the largest black diamond ever discovered, mined in the Central African Republic.
- The Gruosi Diamond: A 115.34-carat heart-shaped black diamond, discovered in India and cut by famed jeweler de Grisogono.
- The Table of Islam: A rare 160.18-carat square emerald-cut black diamond of mysterious origin.
- The Black Star of Africa: A 202-carat fancy black diamond last seen in Tokyo in 1971.
- The Korloff Noir: An 88-carat black diamond now housed with the Korloff jewelers in France, believed to bring good fortune to its owner.
HOW DO BLACK DIAMONDS DIFFER FROM COLORLESS DIAMONDS?
Structurally, black and white diamonds are nearly identical—they are both composed of pure carbon. The difference lies in the inclusions. Black diamonds contain abundant graphite, pyrite, or hematite particles trapped during crystal growth, which block light and create an opaque surface. Otherwise, both are formed under the same high-pressure, high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth.
ARE BLACK DIAMONDS A GOOD INVESTMENT?
While pink, blue, and red diamonds tend to dominate the investment market, black diamonds have carved out a niche for collectors who appreciate rarity and design appeal. Their market value has steadily grown in recent years due to limited supply and rising demand for unique, statement-making gems. Exceptionally large or historically significant black diamonds can achieve impressive prices at auction.
HOW TO CARE FOR BLACK DIAMONDS
Black diamonds are durable, ranking 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, but they can still contain internal fractures due to their natural inclusions. Clean them gently using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Avoid harsh ultrasonic cleaners, as vibration can sometimes weaken inclusions.
For best results, have your jewelry professionally cleaned and checked periodically by a jeweler—especially if it’s a ring or a piece you wear often.
ARE BLACK DIAMONDS RARE?
Natural fancy black diamonds are rarer than colorless diamonds but not as scarce as certain other colors like pink or red. Their deep, dramatic tone and organic inclusions make them one of the most artistic and visually captivating varieties of diamond. They are especially popular in men’s jewelry and contemporary fashion pieces thanks to their sleek, bold aesthetic.
DO BLACK DIAMONDS LOOK GOOD IN JEWELRY?
Absolutely. Black diamonds bring striking contrast and sophistication to any piece of jewelry. They are frequently featured in engagement rings, wedding bands, earrings, bracelets, and cufflinks for both men and women. When set in white gold or platinum, they create a powerful monochromatic effect; when paired with rose gold or yellow gold, they offer a luxurious modern twist.
Because they are both durable and distinctive, black diamonds are perfect for everyday wear as well as special occasions, symbolizing individuality, strength, and everlasting love.
CAN I WEAR A BLACK DIAMOND AS MY ENGAGEMENT RING?
Yes, and more couples are choosing them than ever before. A black diamond engagement ring makes a dramatic, unconventional statement of love and individuality. While colorless diamonds became the norm after De Beers’ 1940s campaign, many brides today prefer unique center stones that reflect their personality.
Choosing a black diamond engagement ring represents confidence, originality, and timeless elegance. Whether set alone or surrounded by white diamonds, it’s a ring that truly stands out and can be treasured for generations.
