Champagne Diamonds

Creating Champagne Colors

The vast majority of diamonds are colorless – what gives a diamond its color is one of two things: either impurities in the chemical composition (diamonds are pure crystal carbon), or unusual stresses while the diamond is being formed. In the case of champagne colors, the latter is the cause. If the crystalline structure is subjected to unusual compression as the gems are forming, a creamy yellow hue the same as fine champagne can form. This is the same process that can form red or pink diamonds, another extremely rare and valuable shade. In fact, some champagne diamonds have a secondary tint of pink, and the combination of both shades is the most valuable of all.

Like all diamond colors, champagne is not a single hue or tint. It is, in fact, a delicate balance of brown and yellow perfectly blended with startling clarity, with shades ranging from a pale bubbly to rich cognac. The very names of the colors indicate their rarity – like fine liqueurs, they are subtle yet distinct and best appreciated for all their beauty rather than guzzled amidst inferior stones.

Engagement Rings with Champagne Diamonds

To properly display a champagne tinted gem, silver metals are best – white gold engagement rings and platinum engagement rings are preferred, because yellow gold can influence the stone and make it appear more yellow and therefore less valuable than it really is. Champagne diamonds pair well with colorless accent stones that can highlight their fire and add a hint of fizz to the ring.

Because the sepia tone is reminiscent of classic antiquing, many jewelry designers prefer to create champagne stones in subtle vintage shapes, such as cushion cuts or emerald cuts. To further highlight the stone’s unusual color, open engagement ring settings are recommended, such as tiffany settings, because they will allow more light into the ring and show more fire in the stone. Because of the color’s darker hue and less effeminate tints, it is also favored for men’s engagement rings.

Quality Champagne Stones

As with any diamond, the four Cs are all important for judging diamond quality, but because a champagne gem’s value hinges on its color, that is the most valuable characteristic. The color should be uniform throughout the gem, with no flecks or overtones of other hues (though a hint of pink can actually add value). The diamond cut is also critical, because a poor cut can create shadows or dark patches that obscure even the finest color. The diamond clarity should be pure and clean, though some individuals may prefer champagne diamonds with minor flaws and inclusions that may resemble champagne bubbles, adding even greater mystique to the unusual color. Carat size is the least significant factor in its quality, though it may be hard to discern true champagne shades in very small stones.

Because of the limited supply of champagne tints, couples need to be vigilant in finding a true champagne stone rather than one that has been artificially treated to enhance its color. Always ask about a gem’s authenticity and request a jewelry lab certificate if possible.

Where to Find Champagne Colors

Australia

The vast majority of champagne tinted diamonds are found in the Argyle Mine of Australia, also one of the world’s most prominent producers of pink diamonds. Due to the rarity of champagne shades, only fine jewelers typically carry the stones, not mass market chain stores. Couture collections may feature champagne stones, though the engagement ring prices can be outstanding.

Many couples toast their nuptials with a ritual champagne sip, and champagne diamonds can bring that symbolism into the relationship every day. Their exquisite coloration and rarity makes them a splendid choice to represent the finest relationship, offering an elegant and unique style to match the couple’s sparkling commitment.