How to Select a Blue Diamond Engagement Ring
Natural blue diamonds are rare and expensive. The Hope diamond is the largest natural blue diamond, weighing 45.52 carats. Trace amounts of the element boron within the molecular structure of the stone give blue diamonds their hue. Since boron is rare, this combination does not occur often in nature. The Hope diamond formed one billion years ago. Gem makers now grow blue diamonds in laboratories, using the same chemicals that make natural diamonds blue. Synthetic blue diamonds, which have the same physical characteristics as natural blue diamonds, are gaining popularity as engagement rings.
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Instructions
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Decide if you want an engagement ring with a natural, or synthetic, blue diamond. The stones are strikingly similar in appearance, but differ greatly in availability. Locating a natural blue diamond requires enlisting the help of a certified diamond dealer. Finding such a stone may take weeks or months. Synthetic diamonds are readily available. Jewelers purchase synthetic blue diamonds from labs that grow them. You can also order a stone directly from a lab.
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Choose the shade of blue you desire for your engagement ring. Natural and synthetic blue diamonds are classified and priced from lightest to darkest in color. Fancy vivid blue is the most intense natural and synthetic blue diamond.
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Decide on your budget. According to diamond dealer, AMGAD, a 1-carat vivid natural blue diamond costs between $250,000 and $500,000 depending on the intensity of color, cut and clarity. The least expensive natural blue diamond, fancy light, costs between $30,000 and $70,000 per carat. According to Everything-Wedding-Rings, synthetic blue diamonds cost an average of $8,500 per carat.
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Select the blue diamond size and cut. Natural and synthetic blue diamonds are typically sold as loose stones. Bring your stone to a jeweler who is experienced at designing custom rings.
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Tips & Warnings
Choose a diamond retailer who only sells Gemological Institute of America certified blue diamonds.
Before purchasing a blue diamond, consider hiring a certified gemologist to determine if it is natural or synthetic.
References
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