Decoding the Colours: What Makes Diamonds Blue, Pink, or Yellow?

Diamonds are usually celebrated for their brilliant clarity and sparkling transparency, yet it's the rare colours that often capture the attention of jewellery enthusiasts around the world. 

At Simon West Fine Jewellery in Melbourne, we are often asked about coloured diamonds - specifically, what makes diamonds manifest hues such as blue, pink, or yellow. 

This Notebook post delves into the world of coloured diamonds, exploring the natural processes that contribute to their unique colours.

The Rarity of Coloured Diamonds

Coloured diamonds are exceptionally rare, accounting for a minuscule fraction of the diamonds mined each year. 

The colours in these diamonds are formed through specific and rare conditions, unlike the more common white diamonds. 

Each colour has its own distinct causes and characteristics, making coloured diamonds not only beautiful but also incredibly interesting.

Blue Diamonds: A Glimpse into the Deep

Blue diamonds, owe their mesmerizing hue to the presence of boron within the diamond's carbon structure. 

The blue colour occurs when boron atoms replace some of the carbon atoms in the diamond’s crystal lattice. Boron absorbs yellow light, which imparts a rich blue colour to the stone.

The intensity of the blue colour can vary from faint to deep blue, often described as "steel blue," depending on the concentration of boron and certain structural factors within the diamond. 

Blue diamonds are among the rarest colours in the diamond family, making them highly sought after and often the centrepiece of significant pieces of jewellery.

Pink Diamonds: A Marvel of Crystal Structure

Pink diamonds, on the other hand, tell a different tale. 

The exact cause of their coloration is still somewhat of a mystery to gemmologists. 

The prevailing theory suggests that pink diamonds obtain their colour not from chemical impurities, like most coloured diamonds, but from a distortion in the diamond’s crystal lattice caused by intense pressure during their formation. 

This pressure can create what is known as "plastic deformation," where some areas of the crystal lattice begin absorbing green light, thus reflecting a pink hue.

Pink diamonds were predominantly mined in Australia, notably from the Argyle mine, which was famed for producing the majority of the world's supply of these rare gems. 

Pink diamond rings possess a delicate and romantic appeal, making them a favoured choice for engagement rings and other fine jewellery.

Yellow Diamonds: The Sunny Delights

Yellow diamonds gain their cheerful hue from the presence of nitrogen molecules, which absorb blue light and emit a yellow colour. The more nitrogen present in the diamond, the more intense the yellow hue. 

These diamonds are sometimes referred to as "canary diamonds," especially those with a very vibrant yellow colour.

Yellow diamonds are more common than their blue and pink counterparts but are no less valued for their stunning beauty. 

They provide a bright and vibrant alternative to more traditional white diamonds and are often set in both modern and classic ring designs to cater to a variety of tastes.

The Appeal of Coloured Diamonds in Melbourne

In Melbourne, the demand for unique and expressive jewellery pieces has led to a growing interest in coloured diamond rings, including blue, pink, and yellow diamonds. 

At Simon West Fine Jewellery, we find that these diamonds are often chosen not only for their beauty but also for the personal statement they make. 

Whether it's the cool elegance of a blue diamond, the subtle charm of a pink diamond, or the radiant warmth of a yellow diamond, each colour speaks to different personalities and styles.

At Simon West Fine Jewellery, we are proud to offer a selection of coloured diamond rings in Melbourne, along with exquisite champagne diamond rings that cater to the discerning tastes of our clients. 

Each coloured diamond is a marvel of nature's artistry, bringing with it a unique story and an unmatched beauty that makes it not just a piece of jewellery but a treasured keepsake for generations to come. 

Whether you are drawn to the deep blues, vibrant yellows, or delicate pinks, a coloured diamond ring is a timeless choice that will continue to inspire and be admired.