White and Black Diamond Engagement Ring

Black Diamonds

Until recently the most prized type of diamond was a high quality white diamond, however colored diamonds are becoming increasingly popular and the black diamond is a dramatic alternative to the conventional white diamond. When combined with white diamonds, black diamonds make a breathtaking option.

Black diamonds share many of the positive qualities of a clear white diamond. They are extremely hard stones, which makes diamonds an excellent choice for an engagement ring as there is little danger of the diamond chipping, becoming discolored, or generally showing wear. A black diamond also has some of the inner fire that is found in clear white diamonds. It may sound strange, but even very small black diamonds will reflect the light and these sparkle and shine when light hits the facets.

White and Black Diamond Engagement Ring Designs

There is a wide range of engagement ring designs, and black and white diamonds can be found gracing many of these styles.

Precious Metal

Black and white diamonds look stunning when set in a white precious metal such as platinum, palladium, white gold or silver. Yellow gold has warm tones, whereas white metal reflects the black and white color theme. White precious metals are very popular and the range of metals means that there is a ring to suit every budget.

Setting

There are many different types of engagement ring settings and the choice is largely down to personal preference. Very small black and white diamonds are sometimes pave set into a ring and this can look fantastic, whereas a row of black and white diamonds set into claw settings can look dramatic. Channel set stones are also popular as this is a good way to let the black and white of the stones really shine.

Cut

There are many different diamond cuts. Most black diamonds are brilliant cut and these go well with brilliant cut white diamonds. Other combinations could include emerald or baguette cut white diamonds with small black brilliant cut black diamonds used as features.

Buying Engagement Rings with White and Black Diamonds

White and black diamond rings can be found in all the major jewelry stores. For more unique or individual styles, designing your own ring might be an option and this isn't as difficult as it sounds. Many jewelers are happy to customize or alter a ring and simply substituting one or two white diamonds for black diamonds can create a highly individual ring. Black diamonds could also be used as a substitute for gemstones such as sapphires, rubies or emeralds to create a dramatic and unusual engagement ring.

Pave Set White and Black Band

When considering a ring with black diamonds it is useful to go to a shop and actually see first hand what one looks like and how it shines and catches the light. This is important to ensure that you are completely happy with your ring. Black diamonds are still relatively unusual and yet the ring will stay with you for many years to come.

Buying Online

If you prefer to buy online then there are many jewelers who sell interesting and innovative white and black diamond engagement ring designs. These include:

• My Solitaire - a black diamond with white diamond accents
• Tirings - a range of contemporary designs
• Alpha Imports - an interestingly styled black and white diamond ring

Black diamonds may not fall into the same price bracket as flawless white diamonds, however they should certainly not be regarded as a cheap option.

Caring for White and Black Diamonds

Gemstones of any description look better when clean. This is because the sparkle and fire comes from the light reflecting off the different facets on the stone. A dirty, grimy stone will not reflect the light as well as a clean stone and the inner fire will start to fade. Black diamonds are no exception and knowing how to clean diamonds and giving them a regular clean and polish session will help to keep the ring in tip top condition. It is possible to keep your ring clean at home and a simple wash in hot soapy water (rinse well in clean water afterwards) will help to keep the sparkle in the stones. For a deeper clean a jeweler may need to be consulted. When cleaning your ring it is worth regularly checking the stone settings, as damaged prongs may result in a diamond becoming loose and getting lost.

A white and black diamond engagement ring is a stunning choice and will look wonderful matched with a wedding ring, causing admiring glances and in the future will become a precious family heirloom.