Salt And Pepper Diamonds – Good, Bad, Ugly?

Salt And Pepper Diamonds

Salt and Pepper Diamonds (at least the name) are a relatively new trend in Jewellery purchases.

Trends come and go but the attraction and everlasting beauty of a natural cut diamond that sparkles will last forever.

In the past few years we have had several enquires regarding salt and pepper diamonds and people looking for more information on what they are and if they are a good choice for their Engagement ring.

‘Salt And Pepper Diamonds’ diamonds is a nickname (admittedly cute) given to diamonds that are heavily included. So much so that the appearance of speckling in the stone of white inclusions (salt) and black inclusions (pepper) give a diamond the appearance of being Grey.  Although not near as popular as ‘Eye Clean Diamonds’ for Engagement Rings they are an option never the less.

They should not though be confused with Grey Diamonds which as explained in our Grey diamond blog are much more expensive.

Heavily Included Diamonds

Clarity which is one of the 4c’s of a diamond runs from Flawless to I3

Salt and pepper diamonds are not I3 as we have been asked many times. I3 diamonds are diamonds whereby the inclusions may be seen by the naked eye.  For the most part though they are relatively clear.

Salt and Pepper diamonds are so heavily included that they are not on this scale.

 

Salt and Pepper Diamonds versus Eye Clean Diamonds

The most sought-after diamonds are clear ‘eye clean’ diamonds. The price they demand is a indication of how rare a diamond without such inclusions are. Flying in the face of this premise these heavily included diamonds give the two fingers to the traditional world of diamonds. They make a bold stand against convention.

Within the world of Salt and Pepper diamonds you can see many different types according to the inclusions they possess. Some are cloudy and grey, some are dotty and grainy and some just seem to have their own solar system swirling inside of them. Rarely do they sparkle but it has to be said they possess a certain charm of their own and for sure no two are alike.

Although in ‘trend’ at the moment, Salt and Pepper diamonds are considerably less expensive than their clear/white diamond counterparts. If you would like something unique and different from the norm a heavily included ‘Salt and Pepper’ diamond might be an option worth looking at. They do hold an organic natural feel that is totally unique to the owner.

Lack Of Sparkle IN Salt And Pepper Diamonds

Heavily included diamonds for the most part do not sparkle. For a diamond to sparkle the light must be able to travel from the table (the largest facet on top) through the diamond. The light hits the interior pavilion sides where it is aimed back to the crown facets. These facets disperse/refract the light to give off fire brilliance and scintillation.  If the light cannot travel through the stone due to heavy impurities then the diamond will be unable to perform.

Buyers should also be aware that depending on the amount of inclusions the diamond may be weakened somewhat and may chip or crack more easily.

In conclusion

If you are looking for a unique stone deviating from the norm.

50% less expensive that their more traditional cousins.

Having an edginess of a newish trend in the diamond market.  Perhaps a Salt and pepper stone might be worth looking at.

They are unique stones and do have their place at the table.

Loyes Diamonds can help you find the perfect salt and pepper diamond.

Contact

Phone/text/whatsApp – 087 9700295

Email info@loyesdiamonds.ie

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