Possibly one of the rarest and consequently valuable of diamonds is the black diamond, usually dark grey, dark green or black in color, and they are rarely found in jewelry stores. The most common and most sought after diamonds are clear or pale yellow and they are found in most jewelry, especially engagement rings. Running across antique black diamond engagement rings can be a special occasion, considering the rarity of the stones.

There are differing opinions as to the origins of black diamonds with one side claiming they get their color from different gases infused in the crystal substrate of the diamond and others convinced they are the result of a meteor striking Africa, where all of the black diamonds have been found. While antique black diamond engagement rings can make fashion sense with many different styles, when it is worn is more important than with what it is worn.

While antique black diamond engagement rings have an air of pretentiousness, it is not all about the price. Its unusual coloring invites curiosity and questions as well as being looked up as a rare find. Although antique black diamond engagement rings are one of the most valuable, the size of the stone is usually not large enough as a stand-alone setting.

Other Colors Used As Offsetting Feature

It is not unusual to find antique black diamond engagement rings with additional diamonds of different colors included in the setting. Typically, black diamonds are small and if placed in a large setting seem to get lost. However, by surrounding it with two or more colored diamonds, or white gems, the black diamond appears more pronounced.

The majority of black diamonds mined have been from the DeBeers Mining Company, which controls of 70 percent of the world diamond trade, and their sale is strictly controlled. With so few black diamonds on the market, finding antique black diamond engagement rings is easier than finding a new one. Some black diamonds are set into silver or titanium bands to show off their contrast.

Many antique black diamond engagement rings are made to match a set, with men mostly wearing the elegant color and style while most women seem to prefer the tradition white diamonds. Almost as valuable are some of the fancy color diamonds, which are described as having an intense color or one not included in the color grading scale, such as black diamonds. The more unusual the color, typically the higher the value of the gem.