Purple Diamonds: A Unique and Exotic Choice for Fine Jewelry

Introduction

Purple diamonds are diamonds that exhibit a violet or purple hue. They are extremely rare, making up only a small fraction of all diamonds that are mined. Purple diamonds are some of the most rare and sought-after colored diamonds. They are much rarer than other colored diamonds, such as pink or yellow diamonds, and are therefore highly prized by collectors and investors. Purple diamonds have been known for centuries, but they were not widely available until the late 20th century. In the 1980s and 1990s, a number of large purple diamonds were discovered and auctioned off, bringing attention to these unique and valuable gems.

Characteristics of purple diamonds

There are several characteristics of purple diamonds that make them unique and distinguish them from other colored diamonds. Here are some points that you could include when discussing the characteristics of purple diamonds:

• • Color intensity and grading: Purple diamonds are graded on a scale from faint to vivid, with the most intense and saturated colors being the most valuable. Purple diamonds can range in color from pale lilac to deep violet, and the intensity of the color can greatly affect the value of the diamond.

• • Size and shape: Purple diamonds can come in a variety of sizes and shapes, just like any other diamonds. However, larger purple diamonds are rarer and therefore more valuable. The shape of the diamond, such as round or princess cut, can also affect its value.

• • Clarity and cut: Purple diamonds are often included, meaning they have internal imperfections or inclusions that can affect their clarity. However, the clarity of the diamond is not as important as the color when it comes to purple diamonds. The cut of the diamond, on the other hand, can affect the way the color is displayed and therefore its overall value.

Sources of purple color in diamonds

There are two main sources of purple color in diamonds: natural occurrence and treatment methods. Here is more information about each of these sources:

• • Natural occurrence: Some purple diamonds are naturally colored due to the presence of certain impurities in the diamond. These impurities, such as hydrogen or nitrogen, can absorb certain wavelengths of light and give the diamond a violet or purple hue. Natural purple diamonds are extremely rare, and they are often more valuable than treated purple diamonds.

• • Treatment methods: Many purple diamonds have been treated to enhance or alter their color. There are several methods used to treat purple diamonds, including irradiation and heat treatment. These methods can change the color of a diamond by altering the impurities or structural defects within the diamond. Treated purple diamonds are less valuable than naturally colored purple diamonds.

It is important to note that many purple diamonds on the market today have been treated to enhance their color. It is essential to determine the source of the purple color in a diamond before purchasing one, as the value of the diamond can be greatly affected by whether it is naturally colored or treated.

Famous purple diamonds

There are several famous purple diamonds that have gained notoriety for their size, quality, and history. Here are three examples of famous purple diamonds:

• • The Violet: The Violet is a 6.39-carat fancy deep purple diamond that was discovered in the late 1980s. It is known for its rich, intense color and high clarity, and it is considered one of the finest purple diamonds in the world. The Violet was auctioned off at Christie’s in 1997 for a record-breaking price of $3.97 million.

• • The Spirit of de Grisogono: The Spirit of de Grisogono is a 312.24-carat fancy deep grayish blue-violet diamond that was discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo in the early 2000s. It is the largest known fancy deep purple diamond in the world, and it is known for its exceptional size and color. The Spirit of de Grisogono was unveiled at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010 and has since been exhibited at various jewelry events around the world.

• • The Purple Orchid: The Purple Orchid is a 4.01-carat fancy vivid purple diamond that was discovered in Brazil in the early 2000s. It is known for its vibrant, saturated color and excellent clarity, and it is considered one of the finest purple diamonds in the world. The Purple Orchid was auctioned off at Christie’s in 2010 for a record-breaking price of $6.7 million.

Pricing and value of purple diamonds

Purple diamonds are some of the most valuable and sought-after colored diamonds, but their price and value can vary widely depending on a number of factors. Here are some points to consider when discussing the pricing and value of purple diamonds:

• • Factors that influence value: The value of a purple diamond is determined by a combination of its rarity, size, color intensity, clarity, and cut. The more intense and saturated the color, the larger the diamond, and the higher the clarity and cut quality, the more valuable the diamond will be. The rarity of purple diamonds also plays a significant role in determining their value, as these diamonds are much rarer than other colored diamonds.

• • Comparison to other colored diamonds: Purple diamonds are generally more valuable than other colored diamonds, such as pink or yellow diamonds. However, the value of a purple diamond can vary greatly depending on the specific characteristics of the diamond. For example, a large, vividly colored purple diamond with high clarity and excellent cut quality will be more valuable than a smaller, pale purple diamond with inclusions and a poor cut.

It is worth noting that the value of a purple diamond can fluctuate over time, depending on market conditions and trends. It is important to do thorough research and consult with an expert before purchasing a purple diamond to ensure that you are getting a fair price.

Purple diamonds jewelry

Purple diamonds are extremely rare and prized for their unique and striking color, making them a popular choice for jewelry. Purple diamond jewelry can range from simple pendants and earrings to elaborate rings and bracelets. Here are a few examples of purple diamond jewelry:

• • Purple diamond pendant: A purple diamond pendant is a necklace featuring a single purple diamond or a cluster of purple diamonds set in a gold or platinum setting. Pendants can be simple and understated or more elaborate and ornate, depending on the design and size of the diamonds.

• • Purple diamond earrings: Purple diamond earrings can be studs, hoops, or dangles, and they can feature a single purple diamond or multiple diamonds. Purple diamond earrings can be made in a variety of styles, from classic and timeless to modern and trendy.

• • Purple diamond rings: Purple diamond rings are popular engagement rings and can feature a single large purple diamond or a cluster of smaller purple diamonds. Rings can be made in a variety of settings, such as prong, bezel, or pave, and can be paired with other colored diamonds or gemstones for a more intricate and unique look.

• • Purple diamond bracelet: A purple diamond bracelet can feature a series of purple diamonds set in a gold or platinum chain or a series of links with purple diamonds set in them. Bracelets can be simple and elegant or more elaborate and ornate, depending on the design and size of the diamonds.

Purple diamond jewelry can be a luxurious and unique addition to any jewelry collection, but it is important to consider the quality and authenticity of the diamonds before purchasing.

Frequently asked questions about purple diamonds

Here are a few frequently asked questions about purple diamonds that you may find helpful:

How rare are purple diamonds?

Purple diamonds are extremely rare, making up only a small fraction of all diamonds that are mined. They are much rarer than other colored diamonds, such as pink or yellow diamonds, and are therefore highly prized by collectors and investors.

How are purple diamonds graded?

Purple diamonds are graded on a scale from faint to vivid, with the most intense and saturated colors being the most valuable. The color intensity is determined by the strength and purity of the purple hue, and it is evaluated by a team of experts using a set of standardized guidelines.

How are purple diamonds formed?

Purple diamonds are formed in the same way as other diamonds, through the high pressure and high temperature conditions found deep within the earth. However, purple diamonds get their color from the presence of certain impurities, such as hydrogen or nitrogen, which absorb certain wavelengths of light and give the diamond a violet or purple hue.

Are purple diamonds natural or treated?

Purple diamonds can be either natural or treated. Some purple diamonds are naturally colored due to the presence of impurities in the diamond, while others have been treated to enhance or alter their color. Treated purple diamonds are less valuable than naturally colored purple diamonds.

Are purple diamonds more valuable than other colored diamonds?

Purple diamonds are generally more valuable than other colored diamonds, such as pink or yellow diamonds. However, the value of a purple diamond can vary greatly depending on its size, color intensity, clarity, and cut. A large, vividly colored purple diamond with high clarity and excellent cut quality will be more valuable than a smaller, pale purple diamond with inclusions and a poor cut.