Colored Diamonds Part 2: The World of Pink, Red, Purple, and Orange Diamonds
In the captivating world of colored diamonds, the mere presence of color transforms these gems into exquisite symbols of exceptional value. The slightest hint of color is enough to elevate a diamond to the status of "fancy" diamonds. In this exploration, we delve into distinct color "groups," uncovering the mysteries of their formation, exceptional rarity, intense hues, and the renowned diamonds that represent each shade. Join us on a journey through the captivating realms of pink, purple, and red diamonds, where every gem narrates a tale of unique beauty and allure.
PINK, RED, PURPLE, AND ORANGE DIAMONDS
Pink, red, and orange diamonds are among the rarest and most sought-after colored diamonds in the world. Here's a glimpse into the fascinating world of pink, red, and orange diamonds:
Pink Diamonds
Formation: Pink diamonds get their color from a rare occurrence during their formation process. It's believed that a distortion in the crystal lattice structure causes the absorption of light, resulting in the pink hue.
Rarity: Pink diamonds are exceptionally rare, comprising less than 0.02% of all diamonds mined worldwide.
Intensity: The intensity of pink diamonds can vary from delicate pastel shades to vibrant and vivid hues.
Famous Examples: The "Pink Star," a 59.60-carat pink diamond, is one of the most famous pink diamonds in the world, holding the record for the highest price ever paid for a diamond at auction ($71.2 million). Another notable pink diamond is the "Graff Pink," a 24.78-carat fancy intense pink diamond, celebrated for its exceptional color and clarity. Additionally, the "Darya-I-Nur" diamond, part of the Iranian Crown Jewels, is one of the largest pink diamonds in the world, weighing approximately 182 carats and boasting a pale pink hue.
red diamonds
Formation: Red diamonds are even rarer than pink diamonds and are thought to result from a rare deformation in the diamond's crystal lattice structure.
Rarity: Red diamonds are incredibly scarce, with only a handful known to exist. They are considered one of the rarest colored diamonds.
Intensity: Red diamonds typically exhibit intense and deep red hues, making them highly prized by collectors.
Famous Examples: One of the most famous red diamonds is the "Moussaieff Red," a 5.11-carat triangular-cut diamond renowned for its intense red hue. Another notable red diamond is the "Hancock Red," weighing 0.95 carats, which is celebrated for its rare color saturation. Additionally, the "De Young Red" diamond, a 5.03-carat fancy dark red diamond, is esteemed for its deep crimson color and exceptional clarity.
purple diamonds
Formation: Purple diamonds derive their color from structural irregularities or lattice defects within the diamond's crystal lattice, often induced by the presence of trace elements such as hydrogen or nitrogen during their formation process deep within the Earth's mantle. The vividness of their hue is determined by the presence of trace elements, such as hydrogen or boron, during their formation.
Rarity: Comprising only a tiny fraction of the world's diamond production. Estimates suggest that purple diamonds account for less than 0.1% of all diamonds unearthed, making them one of the rarest colored diamond varieties.
Intensity: The intensity of color, ranging from soft lilac to deep violet.
Famous Examples: Two of the most famous purple diamonds, the "Royal Purple Heart Diamond" and the "Supreme Purple Diamond," were both part of the Russian Crown Jewels, adding to their historical significance. The "Royal Purple Heart Diamond" is a stunning 7.34-carat gemstone while the "Supreme Purple Diamond" is a 2.83-carat fancy vivid purple diamond celebrated for its exceptional color saturation and clarity. Another notable purple diamond is the “Purple Orchid” diamond, weighing 3.37 carats.
Purple Orchid diamond
Orange Diamonds
Formation: Orange diamonds derive their color from the presence of nitrogen atoms in the diamond's crystal lattice structure. The nitrogen atoms absorb blue light, resulting in an orange hue.
Rarity: While not as rare as pink or red diamonds, orange diamonds are still considered rare and highly valuable.
Intensity: The intensity of orange diamonds can vary from subtle peach tones to vivid orange shades.
Famous Examples: “The Orange," a 14.82-carat orange diamond, gained fame when it sold at auction for $35.5 million. Another notable orange diamond is the “Pumpkin” diamond, weighing 5.54 carats, known for its vibrant orange hue and exceptional clarity.
These extraordinary gems, with their scarcity, intense coloration, and illustrious history, continue to captivate the imagination and remain highly coveted in the world of high-end jewelry and gemstone collecting. These rare treasures have adorned monarchs, dazzled collectors, and moved all who have beheld their splendor. As symbols of love, power, and mystique, pink, red, purple, and orange diamonds continue to weave their magic through history, leaving an enduring mark on the world of gemology and beyond. We look forward to exploring the enchanting world of blue diamonds with you next!
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