I’ve always been different particularly when it comes to style and fashion. I’ve never been one to follow the trends and I would always rather wear something that suits me, then what the magazines tell me I should be wearing.
This attitude is not limited to clothing, in fact, it is quite predominant in my jewelry choices. Never one to over adorn myself, I prefer a single status piece that catches the eye and sets me apart from the crowd.
This has become quite the conundrum in recent years. I’m of an age where it seems that everyone I know is getting engaged. Although I’m happy for my friends, I’m also getting tired of looking at what seems to be the same rock and design on everyone’s figure. Oh, you guys went for clear diamonds? How original.
Sorry ladies and gents, but if you’re going to be wearing a supposedly meaningful ring on your finger, or buying one for your beloved, don’t you want it to be different than Susan’s in the office next door? Mediocrity is so last year.
This is where black diamond rings could be your life saver. Not only will they help you stand out from the crowd (or for you gents – show that you think your special someone is in fact special) – they’re also tasteful, elegant, and unique.
So what are black diamonds?
There are two varieties of black diamonds – those that occur naturally, and white diamonds that have been artificially treated to give them their deep and dark colour.
Naturally Occurring
These black diamonds are rare and therefore incredibly expensive. In the 18thcentury, the Portuguese called these black diamonds “Carbonado” which translates to “carbonized” or “burned.” It turns out that this was quite an apt name. Like traditional diamonds, they’re a form of carbon, however, they have a different carbon isotope. Scientists debate exactly how black diamonds are formed, which seem fitting for a stone so dark and mysterious.
Artificially Treated
In contrast, black diamonds that get their colour from a lab rather than nature are relatively affordable. Through a heat or irradiation treatment, white diamonds take on the same dark colour as naturally occurring black diamonds. Don’t be confused though – though artificially in colour, these forms of black diamonds aren’t fake. They’re still originally white diamonds that were formed in nature, as opposed to manufactured stones.
The lustre of a black diamond comes from its polished surface. This is because black diamonds absorb light, rather than reflect it. It’s important to note that black diamonds are not the same as onyx, despite their similarity in appearance.
Thankfully, black diamonds are just popular enough at the moment to be present on the jewelry and ring circuit, without inundating it. This means that you’ll be able to find them in a variety of different styles, but without the fear of being a trend follower. Black diamond rings were even given the Sex and the City tick of approval when Mr. Big presented Carrie with one that was designed by Itay Malkin. When asked why he went with black, he put it perfectly when he replied “Because you’re not like anyone else.”
So if you’re looking at investing in a beautiful piece of jewelry that’s going to be a truly unique and special, I highly recommend a black diamond ring. After all, do you really want to be just like everyone else?
Written by Ashley Roberts
Guest Authors and Friends of Pinstripe Magazine, Online Mens Magazine for Gear, Girls and Gadgets.
