Are you on the hunt for the perfect engagement ring but feeling overwhelmed by the cost of traditional white diamonds? You're not alone. Many couples face this challenge, but there's a stunning solution you might not have considered: brown diamonds. Despite their name, these gems are truly stunning!
What Are Brown Diamonds?
Brown diamonds, often marketed as "champagne" or "cognac" diamonds, are natural coloured diamonds that range from light, soft champagne hues to deep, rich cognac tones. Despite their natural beauty, they've been historically undervalued in the diamond market, making them an excellent choice for savvy shoppers.
Why choose a brown diamond?
- Cost-Effective: Perhaps the most compelling reason to consider brown diamonds is their price. They typically cost about half as much as comparable white diamonds, allowing you to get a larger or higher-quality stone for your budget.
- Unique Beauty: Brown diamonds offer a warm, earthy elegance that sets them apart from traditional clear diamonds. Their rich tones can complement various skin tones and metal settings beautifully.
- Durability: Like their colourless counterparts, brown diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness as they are still diamonds, making them ideal for everyday wear in an engagement ring.
- Versatility: Brown diamonds pair wonderfully with other coloured stones or can stand alone as a striking centrepiece. Take a look at these 2 stones, perfect for a Toi et Moi ring!
Are brown diamonds more expensive?
Some may worry that choosing a brown diamond means settling for less. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Brown diamonds are more affordable simply because thereβs more supply. Historically, they were overlooked due to misconceptions about their beauty. Since the 1980s, however, their popularity has surged, thanks in part to clever marketing that rebranded them as "champagne" and "cognac" diamondsβmuch more appealing names, right? In fact, an increasing number of people, including celebrities, are embracing brown diamonds for their unique allure.Β Brown diamonds cost approximately half the price of a white diamond does!
How to Choose a Brown Diamond
Similar to choosing a white diamond, you must consider the 4 Cs:
- Colour intensity: Choose a hue that appeals to you, from light champagne to deep cognac. (Weβll explain the colour grading in another blog!)
- Cut: Like all diamonds, the cut affects the stone's brilliance. Look for well-cut stones that maximise light reflection.
- Clarity: While inclusions may be less visible in darker stones, aim for eye-clean diamonds for the best appearance (SI1+)
- Carat weight: Remember, you can often afford a larger brown diamond compared to a white diamond of the same budget. A 1 carat white diamond can usually get you a 2ct brown diamond!
What shade of brown diamond suits my skin?
One of the most common questions is: Will a brown diamond suit my skin tone? The beauty of brown diamonds is their versatilityβthey complement a wide range of skin tones.
- Fair Skin Tones: Light brown or champagne diamonds look soft and elegant against fair skin, adding warmth without overpowering.
- Olive and Medium Skin Tones: Mid-toned cognac diamonds bring out the natural glow of medium and olive skin, creating a harmonious blend of earthy tones.
- Dark Skin Tones: Deep, rich chocolate diamonds pop beautifully against darker skin, offering a striking contrast that feels luxurious and bold.
Conclusion
Brown diamonds offer a unique opportunity to own a beautiful, durable, and distinctive engagement ring at a fraction of the cost of traditional white diamonds. They're perfect for couples who want something out of the ordinary or who are looking to maximise their budget without compromising on quality and beauty.
If you're intrigued by the idea of a brown diamond engagement ring, don't hesitate to explore this option. You might just find that these under appreciated gems are the perfect fit for your style and budget.
