What is a blue diamond?

Blue Diamonds: A Rare and Captivating Gem

Blue diamonds are among the rarest and most valuable of all colored diamonds. Their captivating hue originates from trace amounts of boron within the diamond's carbon structure.

• Color Origin: The presence of boron atoms replacing carbon atoms during the diamond's formation is what gives blue diamonds their color. The intensity of the blue hue depends on the concentration of boron. Higher concentrations result in deeper, more saturated blues.

• Rarity: Blue diamonds are exceptionally rare. They are far less common than yellow or brown diamonds, making them highly sought after by collectors and investors.

• Formation: Like all diamonds, blue diamonds are formed deep within the Earth under immense pressure and heat. They are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions. However, the specific geological conditions required for boron to be incorporated into the diamond crystal lattice are exceptionally rare. Recent research suggests that many blue diamonds form at even greater depths than other diamonds.

• Notable Blue Diamonds: Some famous examples include the Hope Diamond, the Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond, and the Oppenheimer Blue. These stones are renowned for their size, color intensity, and historical significance.

• Grading: Blue diamonds are graded using the same criteria as colorless diamonds (cut, clarity, carat weight) but with an additional emphasis on color. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades blue diamonds on a scale of Faint Blue, Very Light Blue, Light Blue, Fancy Light Blue, Fancy Blue, Fancy Intense Blue, Fancy Deep Blue, and Fancy Vivid Blue.

• Value: Due to their rarity and beauty, blue diamonds command extremely high prices, often exceeding millions of dollars per carat, especially for those with intense colors and good clarity. The price is heavily influenced by the color grade.