Learn about Blue Diamond
The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is home to the most famous fancy blue diamond - the Hope Diamond.
Blue Diamond
- Diamond
- 10 Mohs
-
Aries , Taurus
- Faith, Trust
- April Birthstone
- Round
Princess
Overview
Enhanced blue diamonds are natural diamonds that have undergone color enhancement treatments. Such methods, usually irradiation, transform the otherwise colorless precious stone into a vibrant shade of blue. These treatments are typically permanent and do not damage the diamond’s chemical structure.
Untreated, natural blue diamonds can be found, but they are extremely rare. This scarcity makes them one of the most sought-after and expensive gemstones available today. The jaw-dropping Hope Diamond, weighing over 45 carats and insured for US $250 million, is a fine example.
Properties
Rated 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness
01Hardness & Strength
When it comes to jewelry, a diamond in any color is an infallible choice. It has a rating of 10 on the Mohs scale and is one of the hardest substances known to mankind. This attribute makes diamond jewelry perfect for daily wear.
Color enhancement treatments performed on a diamond to achieve the blue hue do not alter the stone’s physical properties. Therefore, enhanced blue diamonds are a wonderful choice for all types of jewelry. They can be worn daily without the fear of damages, such as scratches and chipping.
02Treatment
The color enhancement treatments done today are safe and effective. Below are the two most common industry practices used to alter the hue of this precious stone:
- Irradiation
- High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)
The 4C’s
The below-mentioned factors help determine a Enhanced Blue Diamond's true value:
- color
- carat
- clarity
- cuts
01Color
- When it comes to assessing the value of a gem, its color is often the most crucial element. This applies to an enhanced blue diamond as well.
- While blue is the dominant color, the enhanced gem can also sometimes have shades of grey and green.
- The stone’s value and quality can be evaluated on the basis of the tone and saturation of the color.
02Carat
- In addition to color, carat size plays an important role in assessing the value of an enhanced blue diamond.
- In general, large sized diamonds are rarer than small diamonds, due to which they command a higher price.
- The same applies for an enhanced blue diamond. Bigger the stone, the more it will weigh, and this will simultaneously increase the cost.
03Clarity
- It’s rare to find inclusions in a high-quality enhanced blue diamond.
- Even if present, they do not affect the value in the same manner as a colorless diamond. This is mainly because the color of a blue diamond camouflages the imperfections to a certain extent.
- Stones that display good clarity, and have fewer inclusions and external flaws will always demand a higher price.
04Cuts
- In the case of a colorless diamond, special focus is given to the cut as it helps maximize the brilliance of a stone.
- When it comes to blue diamonds, the cut plays an important role in achieving the best color possible, which is directly proportional to its value.
Quality & Grading
Based on its various properties, an enhanced blue diamond can be further distinguished into the following categories of quality.
| Gem Quality | Color | Clarity | Brilliance | Rareness | Shop Products |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best (AAA) |  Teal Blue | Slightly Included | Medium to High | Top 10% |
Round Enhanced Blue Diamond Cushion Halo Engagement Ring with Milgrain$3,140 |
| Better (AA) |  Greenish Blue | Included | Medium | Top 25% |
|
Care Instructions
Famed for its hardness and durability, this precious gemstone is almost invincible. However, care needs to be taken to ensure that your blue diamond jewelry stays beautiful for years to come.
FAQs
1. Are enhanced blue diamonds rare?
Enhanced blue diamonds are not rare. However, untreated naturally occurring blue diamonds are extremely rare in comparison to colorless diamonds and enhanced blue diamonds. Some blue diamonds with very high color intensity are also considered more valuable than others.
2. How do enhanced blue diamonds get their color?
Enhanced blue diamonds get their color from color enhancement treatments. On the other hand, untreated naturally occurring blue diamonds get their hue from the element boron present in their structure.
3. Are enhanced blue diamonds expensive?
Well, enhanced blue diamonds are typically not as expensive as their colorless counterparts. However, naturally occurring blue diamonds are more expensive owing to their rarity. Other factors that impact the price of a blue diamond are its quality and carat weight.
4. What is the significance of enhanced blue diamonds?
Blue diamonds, whether enhanced or untreated, symbolize faith, trust and wisdom. They are also often closely associated with tranquility and stability.
Latest Pick from Blue Diamond Jewelry
- Fancy Intense Blue and White Diamond Ivy Scroll Engagement Ring$243,879
- Emerald-Cut Fancy Intense Blue Diamond Halo Engagement Ring$95,999
- Solitaire Fancy Intense Blue Diamond Bypass Engagement Ring with Accents$591,799
- Knife-Edged Classic Round Fancy Intense Blue Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring$112,139
- Fancy Intense Blue Diamond Solitaire Parallel Split Shank Engagement Ring$176,599
- Solitaire Fancy Intense Blue Diamond Infinity Knot Engagement Ring$591,959
- East-West Emerald-Cut Fancy Intense Blue Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring in Bezel Setting$694,589
- Prong-Set Round 3 Stone Fancy Intense Blue and White Diamond Engagement Ring$986,879
- Round Fancy Intense Blue Diamond Cushion Halo Engagement Ring with Milgrain$260,169
- Unique Prong-Set Fancy Intense Blue Diamond Three Stone Ring$48,759
Know About Other Gems
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Did you know this glorious gemstone derives its name from the Latin word "garanatus", which translates to "seed-like"? It was also believed to be used by Noah to guide his ark through the darkness. In addition to these, there’s more information about garnet which is truly fascinating.
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It’s not just the captivating and intense purple hue that makes an amethyst so popular. Fascinating legends and important symbolism, along with interesting facts about its origin have together ensured that this gem receives all the admiration it deserves.
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A single look at an aquamarine will make you realize why it is often referred to as the 'gem of the sea'. The glistening facets of this stone radiate the deep mysteries of the ocean, while its sheer beauty mesmerizes effortlessly.
Emerald
Green is the color of freshness, nature and rejuvenation. And if there’s one precious gem that does complete justice to the beauty of this hue, it has to be emerald. A symbol of new beginnings, this gemstone has been revered for centuries for all the right reasons.
Moonstone
Famed for the phenomenon called ‘adularescence’, the moonstone is no ordinary gem. It radiates a glow that resembles the moon lying still under the calm of the ocean. Now the official birthstone of June, this jewel is an absolute treat for those with refined taste.
Ruby
Ruby is a part of the ‘Big Three’ of colored and precious gemstones, and a possession the entire world desires to own. But what makes it sought-after? Is it the rarity, captivating color or ancient legends that surround it? Find all the answers right here!
Peridot
How did the ancient civilization mine peridots? They set out in the night and used a lamp to spot this gem that shimmered in an olive green hue. This was the perfect reason for it to be christened the “evening emerald” by the Romans.
Sapphire
Some jewels need no introduction. Their magnificence does all the talking, and sapphire is a fine example of this. From royals and aristocrats to those with a penchant for pure luxury – everyone has a special place in their heart for this enchanting jewel.
Opal
A symbol of hope and purity, an opal comes packed with a vivid ‘play-of-color’ that is reminiscent of fireworks in the night sky. Find out more about this gem that has charmed many great personalities, including William Shakespeare.
Tourmaline
Renowned for its extensive and exciting color spectrum, this gem is an absolute treat for the eyes. While pink happens to be one of its most popular shades, tourmalines in bi-colors and tri-colors are also very much in demand. Learn more about this jewel with the help of our informational guide.
Swiss Blue Topaz
Did you know? The name of this gem is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘tapas’, which means ‘fire’. Also, blue is not the only color this gem is available is. You can find topaz in multiple hues, including yellow, orange, pink, red and purple. Read our guide to know more interesting details about this eye-catching gem.
Citrine
Blessed with a cheery sunny shade, this jewel doesn’t have to do much to grab attention. But do you know the history and the symbolism of the vibrant citrine? Discover all the interesting information about this honey-yellow beauty right here.
Tanzanite
The more you read about tanzanite, the more fascinating and alluring it gets. From the intriguing folklores about its birth to the fact that it’s rarer than diamonds, this gemstone is brimming with mystery and spellbinding beauty.
Turquoise
Did you know? Turquoise is one of the official birthstones of December. Its summery sky hue earned it the title of ‘mefkat,’ which translates to ‘gem of joy.’ Discover more such interesting information, along with quality grading details that will help you make an informed purchase.
Morganite
This peachy stunner is named after the renowned American gemstone collector and banker – John Pierpont Morgan. Not only is it popular in the jewelry industry, but also in the field of crystal healing. This gem is also believed to attract and nurture love.
Onyx
Is this gem as intriguing as its name? Yes, it definitely is. According to legends, onyx is believed to have come from Venus – the goddess of love. That’s not all. Many ancient cultures even considered it a lucky talisman. Continue reading to know more about this fascinating gem.
Tsavorite
Tsavorite may remind you of the emerald, but this sensational green gem happens to be an expensive variety of grossular garnet. What’s more, it cannot be found anywhere else on earth besides Africa. Good-looking and rare, this jewel promises to be a valuable discovery.
Rhodolite
Did you know? Rhodolite derives its name from the Greek word ‘rhodon’ which means ‘rose’. This gem’s attractive hue is its biggest USP and can vary from a light rose-pink to a dark raspberry red. Enter now, and learn more about this gleaming member of the garnet family.
Rose Quartz
If you’re looking for a gem that is subtle yet charming and exudes a romantic vibe then this may just be what you need. Blessed with a delicate pink hue, rose quartz has been used for crafting jewelry since several centuries. Read our guide to find out what makes this jewel different from the others.
