What clarity and inclusions mean in diamond grading

You might already know that natural diamonds are graded based on the 4Cs of diamonds. These four factors work together to determine a diamond’s overall appeal and financial value.

• Cut – How well the diamond has been cut, shaped and faceted, affecting how beautifully it catches and reflects the light. If you’d like to learn more about how a diamond’s cut brings out its brilliance and sparkle, you can explore our guide on how cut reveals brilliance in natural diamonds.

• Colour – How white or colourless the diamond appears, with the most prized stones showing little to no tint. If you’d like to understand how a diamond’s colour influences its beauty and value, you can explore our guide the color spectrum of natural diamonds

• Clarity – How free the diamond is from internal inclusions and surface blemishes, graded on a scale that runs all the way up to Flawless. If you’d like to learn more about why high-clarity natural diamonds are so rare and sought after, you can explore our guide on the rarity of high clarity natural diamonds.

• Carat – The weight of the diamond, which gives an idea of its size while working in harmony with cut, colour and clarity. If you’d like to get a clearer idea of how diamond weight relates to size and overall balance, you can explore our guide on what is a good diamond carat size for an engagement ring?

While all of them matter, clarity is often emphasized, especially in the natural diamond vs laboratory-grown debate. 

But what exactly is diamond clarity? In simple terms, it means how free a diamond is from internal ‘birthmarks’ (known as inclusions) and external markings (known as blemishes). These can be anything from tiny crystals trapped inside the stone to little feather-like lines or minute dots that are often impossible to spot with the naked eye. 

Understanding the diamond clarity scale

Currently, only one institute (the International Gemological Institute) continues to grade natural diamonds and LGDs in the same way using the diamond clarity scale. HRD Antwerp does not grade LGDs at all, instead choosing to focus on the natural diamonds, and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has introduced a more streamlined assessment method of grading man-made diamonds.  

Given that most lab-grown diamonds occupy a narrow range of quality characteristics, they are now classified by the latter as either ‘standard’ or ‘premium’ based on their quality and craftsmanship. Clarity in these cases is either very good or excellent, and anything considered below this standard is not graded at all.  

For those grading using the diamond clarity scale, a universal system is adopted to help determine how ‘clean’ a diamond appears internally and externally. This scale currently ranges from: 

• FL (Flawless): no inclusions or blemishes are visible under 10x magnification. If you’d like to learn more about what truly makes a flawless natural diamond unique, you can explore our guide on why flawless natural diamonds are so rare.
   

• IF (Internally Flawless): no inclusions visible, only minor surface blemishes 
   

• VVS1 & VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included): inclusions are extremely difficult to detect, even under magnification 
   

• VS1 & VS2 (Very Slightly Included): inclusions are minor and difficult to see with the naked eye 
   

• SI1 & SI2 (Slightly Included): inclusions are noticeable under magnification and may be visible without it 
   

• I1, I2 & I3 (Included): inclusions are usually obvious and may affect the diamond’s transparency and brilliance¹ 

What’s important to note is that these categories aren’t about good versus bad per se; they’re simply tools to help us understand a diamond’s internal makeup. And although a diamond clarity chart or scale can be helpful, it’s worth remembering that most inclusions are microscopic. You’d need a jeweler loupe (a specialist magnifying glass) to spot them, and many have no impact on sparkle.  

Clarity and inclusions in natural diamonds

A natural diamond formation happens under intense pressure and heat deep beneath the Earth’s surface. As they make their epic journey towards the surface, they are likely to pick up a few souvenirs along the way. Diamond inclusions are the geological equivalent of freckles, tiny little scars or marks our body might collect as we grow and age.  

Inclusions in natural diamonds can be anything from tiny fractures and marks created in the intense formation process, to other minerals amassed within the stone. They tell us the diamond is natural, formed over time and completely one-of-a-kind. 

It’s important to think of inclusions as birthmarks of authenticity instead of imperfections. If your diamond has a feather or a pinpoint, that’s an assurance of its origin, not a defect. They are beautiful reminders of your diamond’s identity and fascinating backstory.  

Clarity and inclusions in lab-grown diamonds 

Lab-grown diamonds are created in factory environments using HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) or CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) methods. These processes aim to mimic Earth’s conditions in a much more controlled environment, which results in diamonds with typically fewer inclusions that can be made in a matter of weeks². 

Fewer inclusions doesn’t mean none at all, though. LGDs can still have man-made inclusions that are often metallic or synthetic growth-related³. In many cases, these imperfections are minimized or strategically placed. The result? Diamonds that look hyper-clean, almost pristine. Much like a filtered Instagram image – beautiful but often missing authenticity, a sense of character, a personality. 

Why diamond clarity isn’t the only thing that matters 

The diamond clarity grading system exists to help standardize evaluation, not to tell you how to feel about a certain diamond. There’s something incredibly beautiful and alluring about a gemstone that’s weathered with time and pressure while still managing to dazzle. 

Additionally, a diamond with slightly more inclusions but an incredible cut will sparkle much more than a technically flawless gem with a mediocre cut. That’s because the brilliance and light performance of a diamond matter more than clarity.  

Many diamonds that fall somewhere in the VS (Very Slightly Included) or SI (Slightly Included) range are what jewelers call ‘eye clean’, too. This means that any inclusions are invisible to the naked eye.  

How to choose a diamond with clarity in mind 

Seeing a diamond before you buy it is vital. Diamond inclusion charts and clarity reports are great, but they don’t always reflect the magic and emotional resonance of a natural diamond when it is in front of you. 

Secondly, consider what resonates with you. It’s about your personal values and tastes, not prescriptive rules or trends. Diamonds are beautiful and rare, but each one is also unique, much like you are. Being given a natural diamond with inclusions could be compared to receiving a handwritten letter over a text or email – it’s more personal and unrepeatable, thanks to its unique nature, formed over millions of years below the Earth’s surface. 

Either way, focusing on what matters most to you means you can’t go when choosing a natural diamond, regardless of where it ranks on the clarity scale.  

Sources

¹ https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/diamond-clarity/ 
² https://www.revediamonds.com/blog/do-lab-grown-diamonds-have-flaws-discover-what-you-need-to-know#:~:text=Lab%20grown%20diamonds%20tend%20to%20have%20fewer%20and%20less%20severe,particularly%20in%20lower%20clarity%20grades 
³ https://kiradiam.com/blog/do-lab-grown-diamonds-have-fewer-inclusions-than-mined-diamonds/ 

The post Natural vs lab-grown diamonds: the truth about clarity and inclusions  appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.

Most polished diamonds over 30 points (approx. 0.3 carat) will come with a grading report issued by an independent institute. This will state whether the gem is natural or lab-grown along with its grading based on the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity and carat. 

Given that most lab-grown diamonds occupy a narrow range of quality characteristics, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has introduced a more streamlined assessment method for grading them compared to natural diamonds. They will either be classified as ‘Standard’ or ‘Premium’, depending on their quality and craftsmanship, rather than being graded based on the 4Cs of natural diamonds as natural diamonds are. 

A diamond graded Flawless (or FL for short) has no visible inclusions or blemishes when examined under 10x magnification. Put simply, it’s sheer perfection. 

What inclusions and blemishes mean when it comes to diamond clarity 

Inclusions are tiny imperfections that occur inside a diamond as it grows over billions of years, deep underground. In scientific terms, inclusions are small parts of uncrystallized carbon, microscopic cracks, or tiny mineral crystals that became trapped during the diamond formation process.  

Inclusions are entirely natural, very common and don’t usually affect the beauty of a diamond unless they’re especially large or in an unflattering spot, like right under the ‘table’ (the large, flat surface on the top of a cut diamond), which is where the eye typically lands first. 

Blemishes, on the other hand, happen after the diamond is formed, usually during the cutting and polishing process. They’re external and often so minimal they can only be seen under intense magnification.  

What qualifies a diamond as flawless? 

Since a flawless diamond earns its top-tier grading by having zero inclusions or visible blemishes, it’s basically as perfect as a diamond can get. But, as we mentioned earlier, recovering a flawless natural diamond is very rare – many gemologists will never see one in their lifetime. 

Understanding Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) clarity grades 

When gemologists grade diamonds, they’re looking at how ‘clean’ the gem is, both inside and out. The clarity scale or grading system has six categories, based on what can be seen under 10x magnification: Flawless, Internally Flawless, Very Very Slightly Included, Very Slightly Included, Slightly Included and Included.

At the top of the scale are FL and IF: 

• Flawless (FL): diamonds with no inclusions or blemishes 

• Internally Flawless (IF): diamonds with no inclusions, only minor surface blemishes 

Natural diamonds with these two clarity grades are rare and extremely desirable. They’re often snapped up by collectors or jewelry buyers wanting to own a piece of geological perfection. 

That said, diamonds with visible inclusions or blemishes can be just as dazzling and special – arguably even more so thanks to their unique and distinguishable character. 

FL vs IF diamonds: small details, big implications 

Identifying a Flawless diamond (FL) from an Internally Flawless diamond (IF) is a tricky business. The only thing separating them is a surface blemish, such as a natural mark or a polishing line. While a tiny blemish doesn’t run deep or dim a diamond’s sparkle, it’s just enough to tip it into an IF grade rather than an FL. The margins are very small.

Comparing flawless natural and lab-grown diamonds 

According to the GIA clarity scale, only natural diamonds can be graded as Flawless (FL). LGDs are either classified as standard or premium due to their narrow range of quality characteristics. 

The GIA’s decision to grade natural and lab-grown diamonds differently, further highlights the significance of the geological anomalies within a natural diamond and the fact that its clarity is solely determined by the Earth’s extraordinary natural processes.  

The recovery of a flawless natural diamond, therefore, is so rare; it is a once-in-a-lifetime moment that cannot be replicated elsewhere.  

Premium LGDs, conversely, are created in controlled, stringent conditions, specifically manufactured to minimize imperfections. They’re consistent because of the machinery used to produce them. 

How flawless natural diamonds are the benchmark

Fewer than 1% of all natural diamonds are graded FL (Flawless) or IF (Internally Flawless)². It’s this rarity and astounding beauty that makes them a covetable ideal in the diamond world. 

The De Beers Millennium Star, a 203.04-carat pear-shaped diamond that took three years to cut, is one of the largest FL natural diamonds ever graded³. Then there’s the Winston Legacy, a spectacular 101.73-carat natural diamond that sold for more than $26 million at auction. It turned heads not just for its size, but for outstanding color and clarity, too⁴. 

Flawless by nature, unmatched in meaning  

A flawless natural diamond is a real-life geological phenomenon, and in the world of fine jewelry and rare gemstones, it doesn’t get much better.  

That said, it’s hard to ignore the distinct beauty that inclusions or blemishes bring to natural diamonds. They ooze character and charm and hold a unique story with every mark. While scarce and widely covetable, flawlessness should not be confused with perfection, which is something that is truly within the eyes of the beholder.  

Sources

1. gia.edu, Diamond Quality Factor ︎
2. The Diamond Pro, IF and FL Diamond Clarity Grades ︎
3. De Beers, Legendary Diamonds ︎
4. Harry Winston, Legacy by Harry Winston ︎

The post Why flawless natural diamonds are nature’s miracle appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.

Of course, the ring didn’t just dazzle, it set the gold standard for glamor. And with it, a narrative was born: bigger equals better. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the obsession with carat diamond size has endured – fueled in part by celebrity culture, red carpet close-ups and the seductive appeal of scale.  

But here’s the thing: while diamond carats might make a big statement, it doesn’t guarantee brilliance.  

Here, we explore why looking beyond carat count and digging deeper into the craftsmanship, cut and clarity of natural diamonds can really pay off.  

What carat weight really tells you about a diamond

What does carat mean in diamonds? Technically, carat refers to the weight of a diamond, not its size, as often assumed; one carat equals 200 milligrams³.  

But the shape and proportions of a diamond can influence how large or small it actually looks. For instance, an elongated marquise or oval cut will typically appear larger than a round cut of the same carat weight. 

Additionally, a poorly cut one-carat diamond might look smaller and duller than a magnificently cut 0.8 carat diamond. Why? Because the smaller diamond will have undergone expert craftmanship that enables it to reflect light beautifully across every facet. 

More diamond buying advice: prices jump dramatically at ‘magic’ carat thresholds. These are 0.50 carat, one carat and 1.5 carats. Meaning, a 0.95 carat diamond, for example, might look virtually identical to a one-carat gem but cost dramatically less. 

Why carat weight often takes centre stage  

“How many carats is it?” is often one of the first things people ask when discussing diamonds. And it’s no wonder – we’ve been conditioned to equate carat with value. 

A one-carat diamond, for example, is often considered a ‘good’ diamond carat weight for an engagement ring. But make it 1.5 or two carats and suddenly, you’re in serious ‘wow’ territory. Peer pressure, celebrity culture and the gravitational pull of a round number often all feed into that ‘carat-centric’ mindset. 

But carat weight doesn’t guarantee impact. In fact, two diamonds of the same weight can look completely different on the finger, with one sparkling ten times more than the other, thanks to a few – perhaps initially indiscernible – differences.  

Why cut has a greatest impact on beauty and sparkle

Cut is the single most important factor in a diamond’s dazzle⁴. A well-cut diamond will cleverly bounce light with perfect precision, creating maximum brilliance, fire (those gorgeous rainbow flashes) and scintillation (the sparkle that seems to dance when your gemstone moves)⁵.

Even Hollywood gets it. When actress Amy Adams got engaged to her now-husband Darren Le Gallo, the pair didn’t go for over-the-top size. Instead, they chose a one-carat brilliant round diamond from Jean Dousset, a prestigious designer known for precision and craftsmanship (also the great-great-grandson of Louis Cartier)⁶. The reason? Because that specific cut delivers serious radiance. 

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) ranks brilliant round cuts from Excellent to Poor, based on how well a diamond interacts with light. But beyond the official grading, expert jewelers also look at proportion, depth and polish, fine-tuning the factors that turn a well-cut diamond into a truly dazzling one. 

So yes, a 0.85 carat diamond with an Excellent cut can absolutely outshine a 1.1 carat with a Poor cut. It’s not simply about having more diamond to enjoy, it’s about making the most of the diamond you have – clever stuff.  

How clarity shapes a diamond’s appearance

Along with cut, clarity is another major player when it comes to a diamond’s beauty and value. It refers to the presence (or, more accurately, the absence) of inclusions (internal marks) and blemishes (external flaws). At the very top of the clarity scale is Flawless, a rare grade given to diamonds with no imperfections under 10x magnification⁷.

Just ask Beyoncé. The 18-carat emerald-cut engagement ring designed by Lorraine Schwartz that was given to her by her now-husband Jay-Z, is jaw-droppingly large, yes. But it’s also technically graded Flawless in terms of clarity, making it one of the most pristine diamonds in the world⁸. Fitting for the singer of a song called Flawless, right? 

But here’s the secret if you don’t have Jay-Z’s bank balance: most imperfections in diamonds are so small you can’t see them with the naked eye. That’s why many diamonds are considered ‘eye-clean,’ meaning their imperfections can’t be seen without a jeweler’s loupe (a magnifying tool).  

Grades like VS1 (Very Slightly included 1) or VS2 (Very Slightly included 2)⁹ typically fall into this sweet spot, where a diamond looks perfect to the eye but typically costs much less than a Flawless one¹⁰.  

In fact, minor inclusions are technically part of what makes a natural diamond unique. Diamond formation begins deep within the Earth over billions of years, as the diamond takes shape under intense heat and pressure. Each inclusion tells a small part of that diamond’s story, acting as a reminder that perfection isn’t always the end goal.  

How polish and symmetry affect light performance 

Polish refers to how smooth a diamond’s surface is after cutting. While that might not initially sound important, a well-polished diamond lets light enter and exit cleanly, maximizing a diamond’s brilliance. 

Symmetry, on the other hand, measures how precisely a diamond’s facets are aligned. A diamond with poor symmetry can throw off the light path, creating dark spots or uneven sparkle (not desirable at all, in the diamond world).  

While polish and symmetry don’t get as much airtime as cut or carat, they’re essential to the overall look and feel of a well-crafted diamond¹¹.  

Balancing carat, quality and budget when buying  

Armed with the right strategy, you can absolutely find a diamond that delivers jaw-dropping twinkle without spending an eye-watering amount of money. In fact, you could potentially land yourself a steal if you really do your homework. Start with this diamond buying advice: 

• Consider carat weights just under key thresholds, such as 0.90 carat instead of one carat. It’s a smart way of saving big, without sacrificing your diamond’s appearance. 

• Prioritize cut quality. We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: it’s the main determiner of a diamond’s brilliance and where you’ll see the biggest visual payoff. 

• Consider ‘eye-clean’ clarity instead of Flawless. You might not have a ring to rival Beyoncé’s, but you’ll get the same visual impact at a much (much) lower price. 

• Explore elongated shapes like ovals, emeralds or marquises to maximize ‘face up’ size with less carat weight. 

• Work with a reputable jeweler who can guide you through the nuances and help balance all the 4Cs of diamonds (that’s cut, color, clarity and carat weight) when making your decision.  

Now, you’ll likely appreciate why the smartest buyers don’t just ask about the weight of a diamond, but consider how it looks, feels and crucially, how it makes them feel.  

Even Elizabeth Taylor, arguably the queen of carats, understood that a diamond’s true magic lies in its significance and story, not just its weight.  

Sources

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/Burton_Diamond/ ︎
2. https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/blog/famous-diamonds-taylor-burton-diamond/ ︎
3. https://www.graff.com/international-en/guide-to-diamond-carat/ ︎
4. https://www.diamonds.pro/education/cuts/ ︎
5. https://www.gia.edu/diamond-cut/diamond-cut-basic-overview/ ︎
6. https://www.hattonjewels.com/BeautifulBrilliants/ ︎
7. https://www.gia.edu/diamond-quality-factor/ ︎
8. https://ourosjewels.co.uk/products/emerald-diamond-ring-beyonce-edition/ ︎
9. https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/diamond-clarity/ ︎
10. https://www.diamonds.pro/education/clarity/ ︎
11. https://beyond4cs.com/grading/polish-and-symmetry/ ︎

The post Bigger isn’t always better: how cut and quality outweigh diamond carats    appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.

The nine-sided double rose cut yellow diamond, also known as the Florentine diamond, weighs 137.27 carats and is part of the Habsburg dynasty, once spearheaded by Charles I and his wife Empress Zita.  

As the First World War was coming to an end in 1918, Charles I and his family fled to Switzerland in exile from Vienna. The family’s collection of jewels had previously been sent there as a safeguarding method but one piece, the prized Florentine diamond (thought to have been worn by Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy when he fell in the Battle of Nancy in 1477) seemingly disappeared.

Where has the Florentine diamond been?

The allure of this missing diamond has intrigued collectors and enthusiasts for decades; with many gemologists believing it had been recut to conceal its identity (something many fears is what has become of the recently stolen diamond jewels from the Louvre). Now, a descendant of the Habsburg dynasty, Karl von Habsburg-Lothringen, has finally unveiled the story of its whereabouts.  

As it transpires, the diamond was not lost, stolen or recut but has, in fact, been safe in a Canadian bank vault. After their exile to Vienna, Empress Zita later fled to Canada with her eight children and settled in Quebec. She is said to have carried the precious family jewels with her in a small cardboard suitcase. She returned to Europe in 1953, but the jewels remained in Canada.  

“I assume that the little suitcase went into a bank safe, and that was it,” Habsburg-Lothringen told The New York Times. “I have the feeling that she was very glad that some important objects of the family are something that she saved. That was historically very important for her.” 

The empress told only her sons Robert and Rodolphe of the diamond’s whereabouts and expressly requested for its location to remain a secret for 100 years after Charles’s death in 1922.  

The brothers passed the information through the generations to select members of the family, and Habsburg-Lothringen had only recently learned of the diamond’s existence from his cousins.  

Where is the diamond now?

The authenticity of the diamond has been verified by one of Austria’s Imperial Court Jewelers, based on the historic descriptions and the 4Cs of diamonds. As the empress’s vow has now been upheld, the family will display the diamond, alongside a collection of other rare and precious gems, in Canada.  

The post The Florentine diamond: the biggest mystery of the jewelry world is finally revealed  appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.

Prices for fancy colored or (‘fancy color’ diamonds as they’re also known) have surged a huge 205% over the past two decades¹ and demand shows no sign of slowing down. It’s largely thanks to their rarity – only a tiny fraction (less than 0.01%) of all natural diamonds have a high enough color saturation to be classified as ‘fancy’², meaning they’ve come to represent one of the most prestigious purchases for the lucky buyers who find themselves landing them.

And while the traditional 4Cs of diamonds (that’s cut, clarity, carat and color) still all matter, fancy color diamonds are valued slightly differently to those that fall within the D-Z scale, which covers colorless to light yellow, brown and gray hues. In these diamonds, intensity and evenness of color can matter more than clarity or size³, for example.

What is a fancy color diamond?

A fancy color diamond is one that shows noticeable color beyond the typical white or near-colorless range. While most diamonds are graded on how little color they have on a diamond color chart from D (completely colorless) to Z (‘desert-like’ shades from sunlit white to brown), fancy color diamonds fall outside that realm altogether.

But instead of being seen as flaws, these colors are the main attraction. For a diamond to be officially classified as ‘fancy’, the color must be strong and clearly visible when viewed face-up. The stronger and more vivid the color, the more valuable the diamond tends to be⁴.

The GIA, who set the standard for diamond grading, look at three things when they assess a fancy color diamond. The diamond’s hue (the spectral color, like blue or violet ), its tone (how light or dark it is) and its saturation (how intense the color appears⁵).

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by De Beers Group (@debeersgroup)

Understanding the fancy color grading system

Once a diamond is considered ‘fancy,’ it’s graded on a completely different scale to that of white or colorless diamonds. It has it’s very own fancy diamond color scale.

It essentially focuses on how visible and intense the color is. The GIA use nine main grades to describe the depth and richness of color⁶:

• Faint: barely noticeable color

• Very Light: a soft wash of color

• Light: more obvious, but still subtle

• Fancy Light: a clearly visible color, though not deep

• Fancy: a medium strength color

• Fancy Intense: a strong color

• Fancy Vivid: a bright, bold and highly saturated color (the most valuable)

• Fancy Deep: rich, darker tones of a color with less saturation

• Fancy Dark: a saturated color combined with a darker tone

Perhaps unsurprisingly, in this part of the diamond market, the value often rises with a diamond’s intensity and uniformity of color⁷. For example, a Fancy Vivid pink diamond is typically worth much more than a Fancy Light pink of the same size and clarity simply because the color ‘pops’ more⁸.

What gives fancy colored diamonds their vibrant hues?

Despite their rarity, natural diamonds are found in a surprising range of colors. These include yellow, brown, pink, blue, green, orange, purple, gray and red (the rarest of them all⁹). Most diamonds also show what’s known as ‘secondary hues’ or modifiers, which are graded with two descriptors, e.g. orangey-pink or greenish-blue¹⁰ which add depth and nuance to their beauty. Those fancy color diamonds without modifiers are rarer still.

What’s behind the colors? Well, through a mix of trace elements, natural irradiation and intense geological conditions, different elements or distortions in a diamond’s crystal structure are responsible for each color¹¹. For example:

• Nitrogen causes yellow or brown hues by absorbing violet blue light. These colors are among the more ‘common’ fancy diamonds and can be incredibly beautiful when deeply saturated¹².

• Boron produces blue diamonds by absorbing deep red light. Top-tier blue diamonds can command over $3.9 million per carat¹³.

• Natural irradiation over the course of millions of years can turn the surface of a diamond green by altering its atomic structure, though intense green diamonds are exceptionally rare.

• Stress-induced distortions deep in the Earth’s mantle can cause a slip in the diamond’s crystal lattice, on an atomic scale, resulting in brown, pink or red tones. These are some of the most sought-after fancy diamonds around. Red diamonds, for example, can exceed $1 million per carat and very, very few exist on the market¹⁴.

Why fancy color diamonds are rare and valuable

It’s all down to the conditions they were created in millions, if not billions, of years ago. Fancy color diamonds are incredibly rare because the geological conditions needed to produce visible, vibrant color happen in only a small – tiny even – fraction of natural diamond formations. According to GIA, only one in 10,000 diamonds shows enough natural color to be classified as ‘fancy’ and fewer than one in every 25,000 diamonds reach the level of intensity required for higher grades¹⁵.

Understandably, value is closely tied to this scarcity and recent auctions suggest collector demand is anything but waning. Take major recent sales like the 15.51-carat Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond ring that sold for $1.1 million at Phillips¹⁶, or the Fancy Pink diamond weighing 5.03 carats which achieved $2.9 million at Bonhams¹⁷.

Some of the most famous diamonds in history are fancy colored, too. Like the Hope Diamond, a 45.52-carat deep blue gem, which is one of the most well-known and lusted after. The Dresden Green, weighing an impressive 41 carats, is one of the few natural green diamonds of that size ever discovered. And the Graff Pink, a 24.78-carat Fancy Intense pink, sold for an incredible $46 million in 2010¹⁸.

Are fancy color diamonds a good investment?

Good question. Because fancy color diamonds are so rare and eye-catching, they’ve become increasingly popular with collectors looking for long-term value, as well as those of us who appreciate their showstopping appeal. And as we mentioned earlier, prices absolutely reflect that demand. Generally, pink diamonds are leading the charge, following the closure of the Argyle mine in Australia – a major source of these rare gems (appreciating nearly 394%) followed by blue (240%) and yellow (50%)¹⁹.

But that doesn’t mean every colored diamond is a guaranteed investment. There are often other factors at play too, like the intensity of the color, the size of the gem, its certification and where it was sourced, which can all play a role in determining its overall value²⁰. The key to ensuring your purchase (or gift, if you’re very lucky!) is a sound investment comes down to doing your homework and paying the right price in the first place.

Which leads us to…

Choosing a fancy colored diamond

When it comes to buying a fancy colored diamond, it’s helpful to look beyond color (though we appreciate that those candy-colored hues can be distracting!). Here are a few pointers that might come in handy:

• Get a report. Always choose diamonds graded by a reputable authority like the GIA. This confirms the color is natural, as well as detailing the diamond’s hue, intensity and origin.

• Prioritize color intensity. The more saturated and evenly distributed the color, the more valuable the diamond tends to be, as a rule.

• Factor in shape and size. Certain shapes like cushion, radiant and oval cuts can enhance color better than others. Larger diamonds with strong color are significantly rarer, too.

• Verify origin and provenance. Always ask for documentation about where your diamond was discovered – reputable retailers will be more than happy to share this.

• Choose with meaning. Rather than following trends, try to pick a diamond that reflects your personal style, or marks a meaningful milestone in a way that feels ‘you’. That way, you won’t regret your purchase, even if the market fluctuates.

So there you have it. Fancy colored natural diamonds are much more than just a high-value investment or an eye-catching trend to jump on board with. Their vivid hues and off-the-charts rarity make them a truly unique, one-of-a-kind treasure if you’re lucky enough to land yourself one (or two, or three – who’s counting?).

Sources

1. https://robbreport.com/style/jewelry/fancy-colored-diamond-price-increase/ ︎
2. https://robbreport.com/style/jewelry/fancy-colored-diamond-price-increase/ ︎
3. https://www.diamonds.pro/education/fancy-color/ ︎
4. https://www.gemsociety.org/article/most-expensive-diamond-colors-with-prices/ ︎
5. https://www.gia.edu/fancy-color-diamond-description/ ︎
6. https://www.gia.edu/fancy-color-diamond/buyers-guide/ ︎
7. https://www.gia.edu/gia-news-research/value-factors-design-cut-quality-colored-gemstone-value-factors/ ︎
8. https://www.diamondportfolio.com.au/investor-centre/what-to-buy/pink-diamond/ ︎
9. https://www.leibish.com/en-gb/blogs/diamonds/what-are-the-rarest-diamond-colors ︎
10. https://www.naturallycolored.com/diamond-education/colored-diamonds-color-combinations/ ︎
11. https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/how-colored-diamonds-get-their-hue/ ︎
12. https://www.gemsociety.org/article/most-expensive-diamond-colors-with-prices/ ︎
13. https://www.gemsociety.org/article/most-expensive-diamond-colors-with-prices/ ︎
14. https://www.gemsociety.org/article/most-expensive-diamond-colors-with-prices/ ︎
15. https://www.gia.edu/gia-news-research-worlds-fascination-fancy-colored-diamonds/ ︎
16. https://galeriemagazine.com/auction-yellow-diamond/ ︎
17. https://www.bonhams.com/press_release/26579/ ︎
18. https://www.naturaldiamonds.com/historic-diamonds/diamond-color-famous/ ︎
19. https://www.diamondworld.net/news/fancy-colour-diamond-prices-surge-205-since-2005-says-natural-diamond-council/ ︎
20. https://www.gia.edu/fancy-color-diamond-quality-factor/ ︎

The post Fancy colored natural diamonds: rarity, symbolism and demand appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.

That’s the premise behind ORIGIN De Beers Group, a new branded diamond experience introduced in the US.

Available through select retail partners, ORIGIN De Beers Group¹ is designed for buyers who want to go deeper. Those that care about how their diamond came to be, where it was sourced, who it impacted along the way, and why it might be the one.

The launch signals a shift in the way people are connecting with natural diamonds via meaningful one-of-a-kind experiences.

It’s all about provenance

Every ORIGIN De Beers Group* diamond comes with a passport – a fully traceable digital ID that traces each gem’s journey from the moment it’s unearthed and registered, to the day it becomes yours.

This is recorded on Tracr², the world’s leading digital platform for tracing natural diamonds from their source. ORIGIN De Beers Group charts each step in a diamond’s journey to provide a tamper-proof record using Tracr’s blockchain technology. ORIGIN De Beers Group provides enhanced assurance of provenance, backed by data.

And the ORIGIN De Beers Group experience is tailored specifically to you. The in-store sales team will invite you to scan the QR code attached to your diamond. This connects it to its blockchain record. On the ORIGIN De Beers Group digital platform, you can see each diamond’s journey and choose one that feels personal to you; one whose natural character and story resonate with your own.

Making it personal 

For decades, buying a diamond has been a process steeped in formality, with bright lights, grading charts and technical terminology. It’s a process that’s precise, but not always personal.

ORIGIN De Beers Group offers a shift in tone; it uses narrative touchpoints to reveal each diamond’s formation, journey, and distinct character. The experience is designed to make choosing a natural diamond feel bespoke, connecting the diamond’s story with your own.

A natural diamond experience like never before

In a world where instant gratification is in demand, natural diamonds offer something unique. The sense of history, the magic of rarity, the feeling of owning something with a story as unique as your own.

ORIGIN De Beers Group brings that back. A reminder that natural diamonds are shaped by time, pressure, and chance. Each one as unique as a fingerprint. For buyers who want to feel confident about their natural diamonds, ORIGIN De Beers Group offers enhanced assurance of origin, a legacy of meaningful impact, and a diamond journey that reflects its story.

Explore the full ORIGIN De Beers Group experience.

*above 0.3cts

Sources

1. https://origin.debeersgroup.com/ ︎
2. https://www.tracr.com/ ︎

The post Know your diamond’s full story: ORIGIN De Beers Group redefines how we buy natural diamonds appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.

Sitting at the center of the Desert diamond palette, Sand is the confident middle ground for those who want something a little unconventional yet not too far from the familiar. It carries a calm radiance, a golden warmth that catches the light with the ease of the desert at dusk. 

Learn more about Sand diamonds, the shade that sits between statement and simplicity; golden, grounded, and quietly captivating. 

Sand in nature, fashion, and tradition 

The shade of dunes at sunrise, the glow of the horizon in late afternoon, the soft light that lingers long after the sun dips; sand is the color of calm. Whether beneath bare feet or brushed lightly against the skin by a desert breeze, it’s a tone that connects and grounds us in equal measure.  

This season, sand-toned looks are emerging as one of fashion’s most captivating statements. At Balmain, Olivier Rousteing’s Spring 2026 collection reimagined desert hues through sculptural drapery, with tones of sand and stone flowing across fluid silhouettes. His now-iconic molded sand designs returned too, first seen on singer Tyla at the 2024 Met Gala in her “Sands of Time” gown. Even Beyoncé has embraced the palette, choosing a Glenn Spiro’s ‘Baoule’ necklace featuring Sand-toned natural diamonds for the REFORM Alliance’s Casino Night & Gala.

From runway to red carpet, Sand desert diamonds prove that the allure of natural tones runs deep. Beyond their beauty, they carry meaning: balance, connection and renewal. Much like the unity sand ceremony at a wedding, where two sands are poured into one vessel to mark the blending of lives¹, Sand speaks to harmony, to finding strength in what’s real, grounded, and enduring. 

Styling Sand desert diamonds 

How you choose to wear a Sand diamond is what gives it character. Its tone shifts subtly with every cut, setting, and style. It often looks most radiant in oval, cushion, radiant, or pear shapes, designs that draw out its depth and keep the color balanced and luminous². 

Like finding the right light for a photograph, the metal you choose transforms its mood. In yellow or rose gold, Sand appears richer and more intense, enhancing the golden warmth within the gemstone. Platinum, meanwhile, introduces a cool contrast that sharpens Sand’s tone, giving the diamond a modern edge. 

The grounded sophisticate

Sand desert diamonds are made for those who appreciate ease in elegance. Whether set against linen, silk, or bare skin, it’s a gem that complements rather than competes. Try Sand diamond studs for quiet polish, or a fine tennis bracelet that catches the light. The tone pairs beautifully with gold and warm neutrals, adding softness to whatever you wear. 

The romantic 

There’s something about Sand that speaks to lasting connection. Like the dunes that inspired it, it’s shaped by time and steady in presence. At the center of the desert diamonds palette, it feels familiar yet new, an elegant balance of warmth and restraint. As an engagement ring, it’s deeply personal: timeless in sentiment, modern in expression. 

The minimalist 

For those drawn to simplicity, Sand slips easily into daily life. Worn close to the skin, whether as a pendant or a fine band, it’s the piece you reach for without thinking; the quiet constant in an ever-changing routine. 

Why Sand desert diamonds are a versatile top pick 

With the natural coloring of Sand diamonds, they often conceal inclusions more easily than their colorless counterparts. While a VS2 clarity or higher is ideal, even slightly lower grades can appear flawless to the eye³, proof of the gemstone’s effortless harmony between warmth and clarity. 

Sand desert diamonds capture a luxury that’s refined yet distinctive, graceful yet full of character. For those drawn to true versatility, Sand feels at ease anywhere, paired with denim or silk, stacked or solo, understated or styled to stand out. Its natural golden hue holds an effortless balance, moving easily between everyday wear and statement moments, always feeling intentional. 

How to choose a Sand desert diamonds and care for them too 

When choosing a Sand diamond, focus on tone and clarity, the balance that allows its golden warmth to truly shine. Because color can vary subtly within GIA designations, it’s worth viewing your diamond in both natural and artificial light before choosing it. Noticing how it shifts in different environments will help you get to know its true shade⁴.  

As with all yellow-hued gems, the metal setting plays a defining role in how the color appears. To heighten Sand’s warmth, choose yellow gold; to soften it, consider platinum or white gold. Let your personal style lead you, though Sand diamonds often glow brightest in oval, cushion, radiant, or pear cuts, where light and depth meet in perfect balance. 

Caring for Sand diamonds is simple. Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft brush, rinse well, and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and store separately to prevent scratching. With care, Sand’s glow endures, grounded, graceful, and luminous for generations to come. 

How nature shapes sand-colored diamonds 

In the desert, no two grains of sand are ever the same. Their tones shift from pale ivory to sun-warmed gold, shaped by the minerals within. Quartz may form the base, but it’s the trace elements, a whisper of iron, a hint of oxide, that tint each dune with its own identity⁵. 

Sand diamonds share the same story of subtle variation. Their soft, golden hue isn’t created in a lab or by design, but deep within the Earth (DD-03. What are desert diamonds? How are they formed, and what makes them unique). A trace of nitrogen in the diamond’s crystal lattice absorbs blue light, creating that signature sunlit tone known as FLY (Fancy Light Yellow). Too little, and the color remains sheer; too much, and it turns a more saturated yellow⁶. Sand sits perfectly in between, carrying a light warmth that feels effortlessly inviting. 

An unrepeatable beauty

As the sun dips low over the desert, the sand takes on a quiet glow. Soft, golden and alive with warmth. That same calm energy is what Sand Desert diamonds capture so effortlessly.

In fashion, sand has become more than a shade; it’s a modern staple. Subtle yet striking, it’s the color of ease and understated glamour. The same holds true in fine jewelry, where Sand desert diamonds bring that soft radiance to pieces designed to be lived in, not just admired. 

And while Sand sits at the center of the desert diamonds palette, it’s only one part of a broader story. Each shade has its own depth and character, reminiscent of the shifting tones that define the desert landscape. Together, they form a palette that feels cohesive yet individual, a reflection of nature’s diverse beauty. 

Sources

1. brides.com, Unity Sand Ceremony ︎
2. capetowndiamondmuseum.org, Fancy Color Yellow Diamond Facts/ ︎
3. naturaldiamonds.com, Yellow Diamond Ring Guide ︎
4. gemsociety.org, Fancy Colored Yellow Diamond Buying Guide/ ︎
5. sandatlas.org, Desert Sand ︎
6. diamonds.pro, Education Canary Yellow/ ︎

The post What are Sand Desert diamonds and who wears them? appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.

Fusing tradition with modern flair

The collection features three rings: a luminous 4.05 carat cushion cut diamond ring; a sapphire ring with round diamond accents nestled within the engrave motifs, and another featuring an 8.66 carat round-cornered rectangular modified brilliant-cut whiskey desert diamond. Each one is valued between $20,000 and $300,000 and will be auctioned at Sotheby’s Gem Drop, which starts on November 10 in New York City.  

Goldsmith and hand engraver Lubeck is the designer behind UK-based jewelry brand Artifex. She started designing jewelry in 2019 and has become one of the world’s most prolific designers thanks to her intricate engraving and vintage-inspired style. Her bespoke pieces are which are instantly recognizable and best known for merging traditional craftsmanship with modern flair.  

“I’ve always been drawn to the details, the things that make a piece feel truly special,” she says. “Hand engraving allows me to leave a piece of myself in every ring, transforming each gemstone into something unique that carries a story,” says Lubeck. 

“Kindred’s exquisite workmanship brings these jewels to life,” says Sotheby’s, “elevating fine gemstones into designs that are unique, effortlessly timeless, and beautifully distinctive.”  The rings are the perfect example of Lubeck’s flair for creating symbolic jewelry that celebrates love, commitment, and individuality.  

What is the appeal of loose natural diamonds?

Sotheby’s Gem Drop is the hot ticket for collectors around the world looking to own an unmarked gemstone or loose stone, which are seen as endlessly customizable and can be easily reset when fashions change. The stunning jewels in the auction range from brilliant white diamonds and rare gemstones to vibrant fancy-colored diamonds.  

Sotheby’s is synonymous with quality craftsmanship, and this collaboration is another example of its commitment to meaningful artistry. “By pairing Sotheby’s legacy in curating extraordinary, historically significant stones with Lubeck’s talent for transforming them into wearable works of art this capsule brings together the very best of both worlds,” Sotheby’s adds.

See an exclusive interview with the designer

In an exclusive interview with A Diamond Is Forever, Lubeck and her rare gem dealer Jogani spoke about how they came to work together on this one-of-a-kind collection. After discovering Lubeck’s talent and vivacious energy via her social media, Jogani saw an opportunity. “Kindred had just made the most famous ring in the world,” says Jogani referring to Taylor Swift’s engagement ring. “She’s amazing. We should really bring Kindred’s high jewelry into the Sotheby’s fold. She has an energy. It’s what Taylor saw: a quirky, funny, interesting, dedicated jeweler; and Sotheby’s loved the idea.”  

“It’s so good,” adds Lubeck of the collection, which features natural diamonds set in her signature antique-inspired hand-engraved gold. “I can’t wait for you to see it.”  

Watch the full interview below.

Learn more about the full collection The Gem Drop: Kindred & Jogani for Sotheby’s here

The post Taylor Swift’s engagement ring designer launches natural diamonds capsule collection with Sotheby’s   appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.

Where light-colored diamonds often shimmer with delicacy, Ochre diamonds carry a deeper, richer presence, offering a sense of individuality and natural strength.

It’s no wonder these terracotta tones are having a moment. Seen on the runways of Valentino, Hermès and Fendi¹, in the clay-inspired sets of Dune and throughout Beyoncé’s recent country-western visuals, Ochre is a hot hue that, in diamond form, shifts from trend to timelessness.

Ochre in nature, fashion and tradition

Step outside, and Ochre is everywhere: in desert cliffs, weathered clay walls and horizons brushed with sun at day’s end. Across the globe and throughout history, the same shade has marked ritual and art.

Ochre pigments have been found in cave paintings dating back more than 25,000 years², where they symbolized life and vitality. In Ancient Egypt, ochre represented eternity and was used in tomb art and cosmetics, while Roman frescoes in Pompeii celebrated it as a shade akin to gold. Across cultures, ochre has carried associations of fertility, creativity and a deep connection to the Earth.

Fast-forward to modern day, and ochre’s pull is just as strong. Designers continue to lean into Earth-rich palettes for their warmth and quiet drama. You see it in Valentino’s desert-toned couture, in the Tuscan walls that inspired Renaissance artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer and in modern interiors, where muted clay shades define elegance.

Seen through the lens of a diamond, ochre becomes so much more than a color. It carries forward a history of pigment and presence, reminding us that the natural hues of the Earth still shape the way we experience beauty, style and individuality.

Styling Ochre Desert diamonds

Ochre tells a new story for every form and silhouette it takes. Emerald cuts, with their step-like facets and open tables, highlight structure and clarity for an elegant architectural presence. Radiant cuts, known for their 70 facets, combine that structure with brilliance, scattering light across ochre’s warm tones. Vintage shapes, such as the Asscher or cushion cut, connect ochre to the heritage of artistry, recalling both Renaissance influences and early hand-cut gems³.

Metal matters too. Yellow gold deepens ochre’s warmth, rose gold offers softness and platinum introduces a contrasting edge.

Ochre finds its place in high fashion and fine jewelry alike. Warm-toned gems and unique Earth-inspired jewelry have appeared in editorial spreads embracing desert palettes. Fine jewelry houses have featured honey, whiskey and sunset brown Desert diamonds in their warm collections, leveraging the same visual language ochre speaks.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Khepri Jewels (@kheprijewels)

Wearers who gravitate toward ochre tend to fall into few archetypes.

• The artist sees the tone as a canvas.

• The bold sophisticate embraces Ochre diamonds as a statement of confidence.

• The heritage lover is drawn to the subtle echo of pigment history.

These are statement gems, chosen by those who value individuality, artistry and a sense of natural luxury.

Why choose Ochre Desert diamonds

Within the ombre tones of the Desert diamond palette, Ochre sits among the least common hues, giving each diamond an exclusivity that appeals to collectors and creatives alike.

Rarity alone is not the point here though. Ochre resonates because of what it represents: creativity forged under pressure; stability rooted in nature, and modern boldness that feels current without losing timeless appeal. It is versatile enough for everyday wear but distinctive enough to stand out.

Ochre diamonds are personal statements, symbols of artistry and testaments to a connection with the natural world.

How to choose and care for Ochre Desert diamonds

Buying an Ochre diamond begins with the 4Cs⁴: cut, color, clarity and carat weight.

Cut is the most noticeable to the eye and determines brilliance and fire, so a well-cut Ochre diamond will reveal both depth of tone and sparkle. Color is central here; look for a balance in saturation that feels rich without appearing too dark. Clarity ensures the hue shines without interference, while carat weight will influence presence but should be considered alongside cut and color rather than alone.

Always request a diamond grading report. This independent certificate provides an unbiased assessment of the natural diamond’s quality, giving you confidence that the color and structure you see are accurately represented.

Caring for Ochre diamonds requires attention and consistency. Clean gently with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft brush to remove build-up, then dry with a lint-free cloth. Store in a lined box or pouch and keep away from harsh chemicals and abrasives to preserve the polish.

With thoughtful care, Ochre diamonds retain their color and brilliance for generations. They begin as geological rarities and evolve into heirlooms, carrying forward their expressive elegance and symbolic depth for those who choose them.

How does nature shape ochre colored diamonds?

All natural diamonds begin the same way: carbon atoms fusing together deep underground under immense heat and pressure. Think of it as the Earth’s own alchemy. Pure carbon is transformed into a crystal lattice, the rigid structure that gives diamonds their strength and brilliance. Left untouched, this process creates the classic white diamonds we know and love.

For Ochre diamonds, the story takes a rarer turn. On their journey to the surface, the crystal lattice experiences subtle shifts under extreme geological forces, a process gemologists call plastic deformation⁵.

The effect is like the veining in luxury marble: the stone remains strong and whole, yet those fine internal lines change the way light interacts with it, revealing depth and dimension. In diamonds, these shifts result in radiant golden tones.

Trace elements, most often nitrogen⁶, play a role too. While nitrogen alone can create a yellow tint, combined with lattice shifts, it produces the layered, sun-warmed hues that define Ochre Diamonds.

Because these lattice distortions occur under very specific conditions, Ochre Diamonds are rare within the Desert diamond spectrum. Their canyon-toned hues stand apart from lighter colored diamonds, positioning them as a treasure of individuality and grounding strength.

A bold beauty with earthy roots

From their formation deep within the Earth to their place on red carpets and in cultural history, Ochre diamonds carry a story that is both natural and deeply human. Their color reflects geological forces, ancient pigments, and modern design, uniting science, symbolism and style in one remarkable natural diamond.

Picture a desert horizon at sunset, the sky washed in ochre light that softens cliffs and deepens clay into tones of gold and fire. This is the essence of ochre desert diamonds. Rare, expressive and enduring.

Ochre is more than a hue. Its creativity crystallized, stability made tangible and artistry enduring across time. Its presence is strong yet refined, a reminder that beauty can be both ancient and modern. Rooted in the Earth and elevated by human expression.

As a diamond, ochre is unmistakably individual. Within the Desert diamonds palette, it stands as a bold voice among many, each shade carrying its own perspective on beauty and identity.

Explore Desert diamonds further and discover how every color tells its own story, from soft radiance to deep drama, all united by the timeless allure of natural diamonds.

Sources

1. https://bourrienne.com/en/blogs/la-gazette/couleur-de-lhiver-2025-la-terracotta-a-la-cote ︎
2. https://www.adobe.com/express/colors/ochre/ ︎
3. https://www.capetowndiamondmuseum.org/about-diamonds/diamond-shapes-and-cuts/ ︎
4. https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/how-to-buy-a-diamond/ ︎
5. https://www.americangemsociety.org/under-the-scope-what-makes-a-brown-diamond-brown/ ︎
6. https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/how-do-coloured-diamonds-form/ ︎

The post Ochre Desert diamonds: what are they and who wears them? appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.

Featuring more than 100 jewels from luxury houses including Harry Winston, Cartier, JAR and Van Cleef & Arpels, the auction includes three notable private collections attracting the world’s most seminal collectors. 

The Mellon Blue

The highlight of the Magnificent Jewels is The Mellon Blue, an exceptional fancy vivid blue diamond that once belonged to American horticulturalist, philanthropist and art collector Rachel Lambert “Bunny” Mellon. Weighing in at 9.51 carats, this pear-shaped blue diamond broke records when it last sold for $32.6 million in 2014 and is one of the finest colored diamonds ever to appear on the market with an estimated value of between $20 million and $30 million.  

The world’s finest natural diamonds

Other stand-out lots include vintage Cartier, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef pieces, as well as exceptional solitaires and even loose diamonds.  

The Rainbow Collection

 Featuring more than 300 gems of various cuts and carats in a full spectrum of unique hues from red, blue, green, yellow, orange and pink, this is of one the most extensive private collections of fancy colored natural diamonds available at auction.

 
These exquisite diamonds were presented to diamond cleaver Eddy Elzas in a cigar box in the 1970s, a time when colored diamonds were considered commercially lower in value than their white counterparts. Elzas saw something beautiful in fancy colored diamonds and their unrepeatable hues, and is often credited for building the fancy-color diamond trade.  

Cartier Diamond Adele Ring

This exceptional piece features a pear brilliant-cut diamond of 13.40 carats alongside round diamonds, platinum (with English and French marks) and is valued at upwards of $390,000.

Tiffany & Co Art Nouveau Floral Brooch

Designed by Paulding Farnham in 1901, this exceptional piece was considered an ambitious design when first presented at the Pan American Exposition. Its bolder, more colorful expression represented a shift away from the delicate and feminine aesthetics of the Victorian era.  

With its symmetrical composition, refined use of gold and light blue enamel, and the interplay of colored diamonds, this piece exemplifies this newfound Renaissance-inspired approach delivered with modern precision.  

Bulgari Colored Diamond and Diamond Ring

This beautiful ring features a fancy vivid yellow cushion modified brilliant-cut diamond, which weighs in at 31.04 carats. The piece also includes fancy-shaped diamonds, platinum and 18k yellow gold, as well as Bulgari engraving and is estimated between $740,000 and $1.8 million.  

Important Cartier Art Deco Ruby and Diamond Bracelet

Originating from the 1930s, this exceptional diamond and ruby bracelet combines a sequence of oval-shaped and calibré-cut rubies and single-cut round diamonds. With an estimate of up to $619,000, this lot is sure to attract attention with international collectors.  

Viewings of all the collections take place from Friday November 7 and online lots can register at the Christie’s website.  

The post Natural diamonds shine at Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction appeared first on A Diamond is Forever.