Black Diamonds – What Are They and Where Are They From?

Some may find it hard to believe that diamonds do not only come in a single color. Although white diamonds are the ones which are seen most often, whether in engagement rings or in a wide array of other jewelry items, colored diamonds are definitely increasing in popularity these days. One type of diamond which is on the rare side and is being coveted by more and more individuals is the black diamond.

What Are Black Diamonds?

Black diamonds are gemstones which are comprised of several crystals as opposed to the usual single-crystal diamonds. The multiple crystal composition is what gives this type of stone its dark color tone. The mineral inclusions in the form of iron oxides make the stone seem black to the naked eye. Therefore, the stone is not really black per se but simply appears that way as a result of the inclusions. Black diamonds are usually opaque in appearance and this will be the type of black diamond most often seen although clear black diamonds do exist. The more transparent the black diamond may be, the rarer and more expensive it is as well.

Where Do Black Diamonds Come From?

This type of rare gemstone can be found in a few different locations. Originally discovered in the mid-1800`s in Brazil, these black diamonds are now popping up in additional places such as Africa, Venezuela and Australia. Although one can obtain a natural black diamond, they are also available in lab-created form.

An additional component to the rarity factor which is associated with black diamonds relates to how they are believed to be formed. It is often stated that black diamonds are the result of a meteor impact upon the land and it is this collision which in turn creates the gemstone. This fascinating conjecture is one which makes the mystery surrounding the stone even more impressive.

Is It Easy to Obtain a Black Diamond?

Natural black diamonds are quite rare which makes them expensive and difficult to obtain. However, lab-created black diamonds are more readily available and ready for the general jewelry buying public to purchase. Black diamonds can be purchased through various avenues such as jewelry stores, auctions and through online vendors.

Tips for Buying Black Diamonds

Since black diamonds are expensive and harder to obtain than white diamonds, there are a few tips which prospective diamond purchasers should keep in mind in order to get the best black diamond at the best price. First, consider various options when trying to buy a black diamond and visit jewelry stores and peruse online venues to see which places offer the best deals. Also, do not have your heart set on a natural black diamond unless you have the money to purchase one and know exactly where to find an authentic black diamond. Lastly, be sure to ask for documentation relating to the diamond itself in order to ensure that you are getting exactly what you are paying for. Keeping these tips in mind when embarking on the search for a black diamond jewelry item will help to make the shopping trip much easier overall.