A red diamond is an extremely rare and captivating coloured diamond with a natural red body colour. This distinctive hue is often considered the most rare of all diamond colours, with its unique shade being the result of an irregular crystal structure. Unlike other coloured diamonds, the red colour in red diamonds is not caused by the presence of impurities, but by specific structural defects within the crystal lattice, which affects how the diamond interacts with light.
Key Characteristics of Red Diamonds
Colour:
The red in red diamonds must be the predominant colour, and it may be modified by subtle undertones of pink or purple. These undertones add depth and complexity to the diamond’s overall appearance, creating a dynamic play of colour under different lighting conditions.
Red diamonds can range in tone from a light pinky-red to a deep, intense red, with the most prized examples exhibiting a vivid and saturated hue. The richness and intensity of the red are key factors in determining a red diamond’s rarity and value.
Colour Origin:
The distinct red colour of these diamonds is not due to traditional colouring agents like nitrogen or boron, which are often responsible for the hues of other coloured diamonds. Instead, the red colour arises from structural anomalies in the crystal lattice. These distortions cause light to bend in unique ways, giving the diamond its characteristic deep red shade.
The exact mechanism behind the creation of red diamonds is not entirely understood, which adds to their mystery and allure.
Rarity:
Natural red diamonds are the rarest of all coloured diamonds. They are so rare that they account for less than 0.1% of all natural diamonds. Their scarcity is due to the highly specific conditions required to form these diamonds. The majority of red diamonds come from a few select mines, particularly the Argyle Mine in Australia, which is one of the only sources of natural red diamonds.
As a result of their extreme rarity, red diamonds are often considered investment-grade stones, with prices escalating due to limited supply and growing demand.
Colour Grading:
The grading of red diamonds is somewhat different from other coloured diamonds. Red diamonds are typically graded on their colour saturation and intensity. Diamonds with a higher degree of vivid red colour and strong saturation are classified as fancy red diamonds, which are among the most valuable and sought-after types of coloured diamonds.
The Fancy Red classification is a coveted category, where the diamond displays a full, intense red hue with minimal interference from other colours.
Value and Investment
Investment Potential:
Due to their extreme rarity, high demand, and unique beauty, red diamonds are considered a valuable investment. As the supply of natural red diamonds continues to dwindle, especially with the closure of the Argyle Mine, prices are expected to rise steadily over time.
Red diamonds have become highly sought-after in the auction world, where they consistently fetch premium prices.
Pricing Factors:
The price of red diamonds is primarily determined by their colour quality, with the intensity and saturation of the red being the most important factors in determining value. Additionally, the size of the diamond also plays a role in its price, with larger red diamonds being exceptionally rare and significantly more expensive.
Red Diamond vs Other Coloured Diamonds
Diamond Colour Rarity Colour Tone Key Features
Red Extremely Rare Vivid Red, Deep Red Most rare, unique structural colour origin
Pink Rare Soft Pink to Vivid Pink Lighter hue, sometimes found with red undertones
Blue Rare Deep Blue to Light Blue Caused by boron, highly prized for its striking colour
Green Rare Light Green to Intense Green Natural radiation exposure causes the green hue
Yellow Common Light Yellow to Intense Yellow Caused by nitrogen, often brighter than other colours
Black Fairly Rare Deep, opaque black Intense colour, may have inclusions contributing to hue
Red Diamonds in Jewellery
Engagement Rings:
Red diamonds make a bold and captivating choice for engagement rings. Their rare and striking colour is perfect for individuals seeking something extraordinary and one-of-a-kind. When set in platinum or white gold, the red hue is often accentuated, creating a stunning contrast that is both elegant and memorable.
High-End Jewellery:
Due to their rarity and prestige, red diamonds are often featured in luxury jewellery collections and can be seen in high-end pieces, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and brooches. Their striking appearance and scarcity make them a statement piece in any collection.
Fancy Settings:
Red diamonds are typically set in settings that showcase their vivid colour, such as halo settings (where smaller diamonds surround the central red diamond) or three-stone designs that highlight the rarity and beauty of the diamond.
The red diamond is one of the rarest and most beautiful gemstones in the world, prized for its deep, captivating red hue and its unique structural formation. With limited availability and high demand, red diamonds are not only a luxurious addition to any jewellery collection but also an investment asset. Whether used in engagement rings, necklaces, or other fine jewellery, red diamonds are a symbol of both rarity and elegance, making them one of the most sought-after coloured diamonds in the world.
