Diamonds are one of the world's most precious and valued gemstones. They're famous for their brilliance, durability, and rarity. But not all diamonds are the same, and they don't all look like the round white gem associated with solitaire engagement rings.
There are many types of cuts—as well as colors—to suit different tastes and preferences. Let’s explore some unique, lesser-known diamonds to add a touch of personality and charm to your high-end jewelry.
White Diamonds
Colorless (or with very little color) white diamonds are the most common and conventional type. White diamonds’ color is graded from D to Z, with D being the most colorless and Z being the most yellow. However, the diamond's value isn't just based on its colors; it also lies in the gem's brilliance and fire, determined by the sum of the 4Cs: color, clarity, cut, and carat.
Salt and Pepper Diamonds
Salt and pepper diamonds are natural diamonds with a mix of white and black inclusions. These internal flaws give the salt and pepper diamonds a unique speckled appearance. They're also sometimes known as “galaxy diamonds” because they resemble a starry night sky.
Salt and pepper diamonds come in various shapes, sizes, and hues, and they can have a range of transparency and sparkle. As a result, they're not graded by the 4Cs—color, clarity, cut, and carat—but instead by their beauty and rarity. Salt and pepper diamonds are a great choice for those who celebrate individuality above all.
Captured salt and pepper diamond studs by Hilary Finck.
Icy Diamonds
Icy diamonds are salt and pepper diamonds that have more “salt” (white) and less “pepper” (black) mineral inclusions. They have a light gray or white color, and they're more translucent than they are opaque. Icy diamonds are also known as milky diamonds, cloudy diamonds, or gray diamonds. They're ideal for those who love a minimalist and modern style.
Captured icy diamond studs, captured in Hilary Finck's signature setting.
Old Mine Cut Diamond
An old mine cut diamond is an antique cut that was popular from the late 17th century to the early 20th century. It has a cushion-shaped outline, a high crown, a small table, and a large culet—the bottom point of the diamond. Old mine cut diamonds also have a very gentle glow, more visible in candlelight.
This cut has 58 facets, but they're not symmetrical or proportional. These imperfections give the diamond a more organic and handcrafted look. We often find them in vintage and estate jewelry, and they're highly valued by collectors and connoisseurs.
Some eco-conscious consumers prefer old mine cut diamonds because they're typically recycled from vintage and antique jewelry. This means that the diamond already exists and doesn't have to be mined or created. By choosing these diamonds, the customer can enjoy the beauty and history of these gems without worrying about whether or not it was ethically mined or made.
Old mine cut diamond, captured in Hilary Finck's signature setting.
Rustic Diamonds
Rustic diamonds are a type of natural diamond with many inclusions. The details give these gemstones a rough and earthy look, ideal for statement jewelry. They're also known as raw diamonds, uncut diamonds, or natural diamonds.
Rustic diamonds are not polished or shaped, but rather left in their original form. They come in various colors, shapes, and textures, and range from transparent to opaque.
Statement ring with a rustic diamond, designed and handcrafted by Hilary Finck.
Black Diamonds
Black diamonds are a type of natural color diamond, and they possess a dark, opaque appearance. They're very rare and have a unique structure—more porous and harder than other diamonds.
Some believe they originated from meteorites that impacted on Earth, billions of years ago. However, their true origins remain a mystery as old as time.
Black diamonds are a symbol of strength, power, and elegance. And they can create a striking contrast when paired with white diamonds or other gemstones.
Mysterious black diamond studs designed by Hilary Finck, perfect for everyday wear.
Hilary's Custom Jewelry Services
Want your own unique salt and pepper or colored diamond? Hilary Finck helps you source a diamond and design the perfect setting for you. When you work with Hilary, you'll choose from a wide range of unique gemstones to match your budget, taste, and occasion.
Contact Hilary today and let her make your dream jewel come true!