Blue diamonds are one of the most coveted gemstones in the world, both for their beauty and rarity. But what is a blue diamond called? These stunning gems are actually known as fancy colored diamonds, and are incredibly unique due to the fact that their color is caused by trace elements present during their formation. While diamonds are typically thought of as white or clear, the addition of a trace element like boron can turn them blue, making them some of the most sought after diamonds on the market.
While many people are familiar with the concept of colored diamonds, few may realize just how rare blue diamonds truly are. In fact, only around one in every ten thousand diamonds mined is actually a fancy color, and just a fraction of those are blue. This makes blue diamonds extremely valuable and highly sought after by collectors and investors alike. Despite their high price tag, however, blue diamonds continue to be popular among both consumers and jewelers thanks to their unique and captivating beauty.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply have a love for beautiful jewelry, blue diamonds are sure to captivate and intrigue you. The rarity, beauty, and allure of these stunning gems make them some of the most fascinating and coveted jewels in the world, and their unique hue is sure to catch the eye of anyone who sees them. So if you’re wondering what a blue diamond is called and why they’re so special, read on to uncover the secrets of this rare and exceptional gemstone.
The Origin of Blue Diamonds
Blue diamonds are incredibly rare, and their unique color sets them apart from all other diamonds. But where do these precious gems come from? The answer lies in their origin.
Blue diamonds are formed from carbon, just like all other diamonds. However, unlike white and colored diamonds, blue diamonds are formed in a completely different way. Blue diamonds get their distinct color from the presence of boron, which is a chemical element that is rarely found in earth’s crust.
While the formation of blue diamonds is still not completely understood, scientists believe that the presence of boron causes the crystal lattice structure of the diamond to bend slightly, which results in the absorption of red, yellow, and green light waves and the reflection of blue light waves, giving the diamond its blue hue.
Geologists have identified three possible sources for blue diamonds: the deep mantle, subduction zones, and alluvial deposits. The majority of blue diamonds come from the Cullinan Mine in South Africa, which is the largest diamond mine in the world.
- The deep mantle: Some scientists believe that blue diamonds are formed in the deep mantle, which is located between 400 and 670 km below the earth’s surface. These diamonds are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions.
- Subduction zones: Subduction zones are areas where two tectonic plates collide, and one plate slides beneath the other. These zones often contain water-rich minerals, such as serpentine, which can trigger the formation of blue diamonds.
- Alluvial deposits: Blue diamonds can also be found in alluvial deposits, which are areas where diamonds have been carried to the surface by erosion, deposited in rivers and streams, and then concentrated over time.
One of the most famous blue diamonds is the Hope Diamond, which weighs 45.52 carats and is on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. The Hope Diamond is believed to have been discovered in the Golconda region of India and has a long and fascinating history.
| Notable Blue Diamonds | Weight (in carats) | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| The Hope Diamond | 45.52 | India (Possibly Golconda region) |
| The Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond | 31.06 | India (Possibly Kollur mine) |
| The Blue Moon of Josephine | 12.03 | South Africa (Cullinan mine) |
In conclusion, blue diamonds are rare and unique diamonds that get their color from the presence of boron. They can be formed in the deep mantle, subduction zones, and alluvial deposits. The Cullinan Mine in South Africa is the primary source of blue diamonds, and the Hope Diamond is one of the most famous blue diamonds in the world.
Famous Blue Diamond Jewels
Blue diamonds are rare and valuable gems that have captivated royalty, celebrities, and collectors for centuries. The beauty and rarity of these diamonds have made them highly sought after for use in jewelry and as investments. Famous blue diamond jewels are coveted for their history, uniqueness, and incredible beauty. Here are some of the most notable blue diamond jewels:
- The Hope Diamond: The Hope Diamond is one of the most famous diamonds in the world and is widely considered to be the most valuable blue diamond. This 45.52-carat diamond has a stunning deep blue color and a long and storied history. It is currently on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C.
- The Oppenheimer Blue: The Oppenheimer Blue is one of the largest and most valuable blue diamonds in existence. It is a 14.62-carat diamond that sold at auction in 2016 for a record-breaking $50.6 million.
- The Blue Moon of Josephine: The Blue Moon of Josephine is a 12.03-carat diamond that was named after the daughter of King Harald V of Norway. It has a vivid blue color and is set in a ring surrounded by white diamonds.
The Argyle Diamond Mine: A Major Source of Blue Diamonds
The Argyle diamond mine in Western Australia is one of the world’s major sources of blue diamonds. This mine produces large numbers of pink, brown, and red diamonds, in addition to the rare blue diamonds. The Argyle mine has been in operation since 1983 and is set to close in 2021. This closure is expected to have a significant impact on the supply of pink, red, and blue diamonds in the global market, and many collectors are eagerly awaiting the release of the mine’s final production.
| Diamond | Carat Weight | Color Grade | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Oppenheimer Blue | 14.62 | Fancy Vivid Blue | $50.6 million |
| The Winston Blue | 13.22 | Flawless | $23.8 million |
| The Zoe Diamond | 9.75 | Fancy Vivid Blue | $32.6 million |
The scarcity and beauty of blue diamonds make them one of the most valuable and sought-after gems in the world. With the closure of the Argyle mine, collectors and investors are eagerly anticipating what the future holds for the supply of blue diamonds.
How to Identify a Real Blue Diamond
A blue diamond stands out for its rarity and uniqueness. Due to its scarcity, it’s important to know how to identify a real blue diamond from a fake one. Here are some tips to help you differentiate between a genuine blue diamond and an imposter:
- Check for the presence of nitrogen and boron: Blue diamonds get their color from the presence of nitrogen and boron in their crystal structures. These elements absorb light differently, giving the diamond its blue hue. A real blue diamond should have a high concentration of these elements in its crystal structure.
- Examine the diamond under UV light: Most diamonds glow blue under UV light, but natural blue diamonds emit a distinct blue-green fluorescence that can help identify them as genuine.
- Look for clarity: Natural blue diamonds tend to have inclusions and blemishes on their surface due to the high pressure and heat required to create them. Fake blue diamonds are often nearly flawless, which is a dead giveaway that they are not natural.
Now that you know what to look for, take a closer look at the diamond’s certificate of authenticity. Make sure the diamond’s color is verified by a reputable laboratory like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The GIA provides detailed information about each diamond’s color, clarity, and cut so you can be sure you’re getting an authentic blue diamond.
If you’re still not sure about whether a diamond is real or not, you can always consult with a certified gemologist. They have the tools and knowledge to identify the authenticity of diamonds and can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a blue diamond.
Conclusion
Identifying a real blue diamond requires a discerning eye and some knowledge of the characteristics of genuine blue diamonds. By keeping these tips in mind and verifying the authenticity of the diamond through a reputable laboratory or gemologist, you can be confident that you’re purchasing a high-quality blue diamond that will stand the test of time.
| Characteristic | Real Blue Diamond | Fake Blue Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Deep blue, blue-green, or gray-blue | Too light or too dark, and does not have blue-green fluorescence |
| Clarity | Might have inclusions and blemishes due to the natural formation process | Would be flawless, has no signs of natural formation process |
| UV Fluorescence | Distinct blue-green fluorescence indicating the presence of boron and nitrogen | No fluorescence or a weak blue fluorescence |
Keep in mind that an imposter blue diamond is not only a waste of money but also a fraud. It is crucial to take time to identify and purchase real blue diamonds only from reputable dealers to ensure that you have an investment that will be worth it in the long run.
The Color Grading Scale for Blue Diamonds
When it comes to diamonds, color is a crucial factor in determining their value and rarity. Blue diamonds, in particular, are highly prized for their unique and beautiful hue. The color grading scale for blue diamonds is a system used by gemologists to assess and classify a blue diamond’s color and its worth.
- The scale starts from “Fancy Light” and goes all the way to “Fancy Vivid.” The more intense and vivid the blue color, the higher the grade and value of the diamond.
- The color of a blue diamond can also be influenced by secondary tones, such as green or gray. When assessing a blue diamond’s color, gemologists take these secondary tones into account and use a modifier. For example, a blue diamond with green secondary tones would be labeled as “Fancy Greenish Blue.”
- Rare and valuable blue diamonds are those that are graded “Fancy Intense” or “Fancy Vivid.” These diamonds have a deep, saturated blue color and are highly sought after by collectors and investors.
Below is a table that shows the different grades of blue diamonds on the GIA color grading scale, from the lightest to the most vivid, and their corresponding descriptions:
| Color Grade | Color Description |
|---|---|
| Faint | A pale blue hue |
| Very Light | A slightly stronger color than Faint |
| Light | A light to medium blue hue |
| Fancy Light | A brighter and more vibrant blue color |
| Fancy | A medium to dark blue hue |
| Fancy Intense | A deep, rich blue color with strong saturation |
| Fancy Vivid | An incredibly vibrant and saturated blue color |
Understanding the color grading scale for blue diamonds is vital when looking to purchase one. Ultimately, the value of a blue diamond depends on the color’s intensity, saturation, and the absence of secondary tones. Whether you are purchasing a blue diamond for an engagement ring or as an investment, the color grading scale is an essential tool in selecting the perfect stone.
The Rarity and Value of Blue Diamonds
Blue diamonds are incredibly rare and valuable. Here are some facts to give you an idea of just how unique these diamonds are:
- Less than 0.1% of all diamonds mined are blue diamonds.
- The source of blue color in blue diamonds is not fully understood, but it is believed to be due to the presence of boron during the diamond’s formation.
- The majority of blue diamonds come from the Cullinan mine in South Africa, which also produced the largest blue diamond ever found – the 45.52 carat Hope Diamond.
The rarity of blue diamonds is a significant factor in their value. In fact, blue diamonds are some of the most expensive gemstones in the world. Here are a few examples of some of the most famous blue diamonds and their estimated values:
| Diamond | Carat Weight | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| The Oppenheimer Blue | 14.62 | $50.6 million |
| The Blue Moon of Josephine | 12.03 | $48.5 million |
| The Winston Blue | 13.22 | $23.8 million |
The value of blue diamonds is determined by a combination of their rarity, carat weight, and clarity. As with all diamonds, the 4Cs – color, clarity, cut, and carat weight – are the primary factors that determine a diamond’s value. However, because blue diamonds are so rare, their value can be significantly higher than other types of diamonds of the same quality.
Famous Auction Sales of Blue Diamonds
Blue diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years, with their rarity and uniqueness making them highly sought after by collectors and investors alike. As a result, some of the largest auction houses in the world have seen record-breaking sales of blue diamonds in recent years. Here are some of the most famous auction sales of blue diamonds:
- The Oppenheimer Blue – In May 2016, the Oppenheimer Blue became the most expensive blue diamond ever sold at auction, fetching a staggering $57.5 million at Christie’s Geneva. The 14.62-carat stone was named after its previous owner, Sir Philip Oppenheimer, and is considered one of the finest blue diamonds in the world.
- The Blue Moon of Josephine – The Blue Moon of Josephine sold for $48.5 million at Sotheby’s Geneva in November 2015. The 12.03-carat stone was named after the daughter of billionaire Joseph Lau, who purchased the diamond for her as a gift.
- The Winston Blue – Sold for $23.8 million at Christie’s Geneva in May 2014, the Winston Blue is a 13.22-carat diamond named after its previous owner, Harry Winston. The diamond is prized for its exceptional clarity and cut.
These are just a few examples of the incredible prices that blue diamonds can fetch at auction. With their rarity and beauty, it’s no wonder that these stunning gems continue to captivate collectors and investors around the world.
The History and Lore of Blue Diamonds
Blue diamonds are considered one of the most fascinating and rarest gems on earth. These diamonds have a unique charm due to their color, which ranges from pale blue to deep blue with a hint of gray. Throughout history, blue diamonds have been highly prized and treasured by royalty and elite. In this article, we will discuss the history and lore of blue diamonds, starting with their discovery.
- Discovery of Blue Diamonds: The first blue diamond was discovered in the Golconda mine, India, in 1666. This diamond weighed approximately 112 carats and became known as the “Hope diamond.” Since then, blue diamonds have been found in various diamond mines, including South Africa, Australia, and Brazil.
- Origins of Blue Color: The blue color in diamonds comes from the presence of boron atoms during the diamond’s formation process. Scientists believe that the diamond must have been exposed to intense heat and pressure while still deep inside the Earth’s mantle, resulting in its unique blue hue.
- Royalty and Blue Diamonds: Blue diamonds have always been associated with wealth, power, and prestige. It is believed that the first known owner of the Hope Diamond was French merchant and traveler Jean Baptiste Tavernier, who sold the diamond to King Louis XIV of France. Since then, various royals have owned blue diamonds, including the Queen of England, who owns the 45.52-carat blue diamond ring.
Blue diamonds have also had many legends and folklore surrounding them. For instance, the Hope Diamond is said to be cursed due to the misfortunes of its previous owners. It is believed that whoever owns this diamond will suffer great misfortunes and tragedies.
Finally, let’s take a look at some of the most famous blue diamonds throughout history:
| Diamond | Weight (carats) | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| The Hope Diamond | 45.52 | India |
| The Blue Heart Diamond | 30.06 | South Africa |
| The Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond | 31.06 | India |
Blue diamonds have always captivated people with their beauty, rarity, and fascinating history. Today, they are more popular than ever, and owning a blue diamond is considered a status symbol worldwide.
FAQs: What is a blue diamond called?
1. What is a blue diamond called?
A blue diamond is called a blue diamond. It is named after its exceptional blue color.
2. Why are blue diamonds so rare?
Blue diamonds are rare because their color is caused by the presence of boron, which is not commonly found in diamond-forming environments.
3. How are blue diamonds different from other colored diamonds?
Blue diamonds are different from other colored diamonds because their blue color is caused by the presence of boron instead of nitrogen or other elements.
4. What is the rarest natural diamond color?
Red diamonds are the rarest natural diamond color, but blue diamonds are also considered extremely rare.
5. Are all blue diamonds expensive?
Yes, all blue diamonds are expensive due to their rarity and the demand for their unique blue color.
6. What is the largest blue diamond ever found?
The largest blue diamond ever found is the famous Hope Diamond, which weighs 45.52 carats.
7. Can blue diamonds be artificially created?
Yes, blue diamonds can be artificially created through a process called High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) treatment.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for reading this article about what blue diamonds are called. We hope you found this information helpful and informative. Keep in mind that blue diamonds are incredibly rare and expensive, but their unique color makes them a highly sought-after gemstone. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Don’t forget to visit us again for more fascinating facts and content!