Natural Diamond Prices – December 2024
At PriceScope, we remain dedicated to providing timely and insightful updates on the latest trends in the diamond market. Our expert analysis focuses on the economic and social changes shaping…
Red diamonds are among the rarest and most valuable diamonds in the world. These stunning gems are so scarce that even small red diamonds can command extraordinary prices at auction. In fact, only about 1 carat out of every 10,000 carats mined is a natural fancy-colored diamond, making red diamonds with deeper saturation incredibly valuable and highly sought after.
PriceScope Tip: When it comes to fancy colored diamond (FCD) cutting you can throw away the normal cut-quality rules for D-Z colors. The goal with FCDs is cutting with angles which exaggerate the color present – which is opposite the goal for well-cut D-Z diamonds.
Red Diamonds Described
Pure red diamonds devoid of secondary hues are the rarest and highest priced in the world. At the 2011 Argyle Pink Diamond Tender, there was only one red diamond offered, a .80ct fancy red oval-cut. It takes one million carats of rough to yield a one-carat pink diamond to be sold at the tender, so imagine how much rough is extracted to produce a .80ct fancy red.
0.52-carat Fancy Purplish Red Diamond
Photo courtesy of fancydiamonds.net
Before you continue: Be sure to explore the PriceScope Diamond Buying Guide, where you can find tips, expert advice, and access to a wide selection of diamonds to help you make an informed purchase.
What Makes Red Diamonds So Special?
Red diamonds are distinct in the world of fancy-colored diamonds due to their rarity and beauty. Pure red diamonds without secondary hues are the rarest, making them the most expensive. Their unique formation and scarcity set them apart as true treasures in the world of fine jewelry and investment.
The Cutting Process for Fancy Colored Diamonds
When it comes to fancy-colored diamonds, including red diamonds, the cutting process focuses on enhancing the color rather than adhering to traditional cutting rules used for white diamonds. The aim is to maximize the color’s intensity, making red diamonds even more captivating.
PriceScope Tip: When selecting a red diamond, prioritize color intensity over traditional cut standards. A well-cut fancy red diamond emphasizes its rich, deep hues, ensuring you get a stunning gemstone that stands out.
Where to Buy Red Diamonds?
Finding the Best Red Diamond
If you are searching for a red diamond, it is essential to work with a trusted vendor. At PriceScope, we have an elite list of vendors, including Blue Nile and James Allen, who specialize in fancy-colored diamonds. These experts can help you find the perfect red diamond, whether you are looking for investment or a unique piece of jewelry.
Why Are Red Diamonds So Rare?
The natural formation of red diamonds is what makes them so rare. These diamonds owe their color to structural deformities, similar to pink and brown diamonds. These imperfections cause the diamond to refract light differently, resulting in the beautiful red hue. Pure red diamonds without secondary colors are extremely rare, and they command the highest prices in the market.
Red Diamond Details
Cause of Color: Similar to pink and brown diamonds, color in red diamonds is generally thought to be caused by colored graining, which results from structural irregularities in combination with an impurity.
Secondary Colors: Red is the color between purple and orange, so common secondary colors in red diamonds include orangish red, purplish red and brownish red.
Rarity: Pure red diamonds are known to be the rarest of all fancy colored diamonds, and they command the highest prices. Weighing 5.11 carats the Moussaieff Red Diamond is the largest graded fancy red diamond in the world.
Grading: Red diamonds are graded as Fancy Red with modifying hues.
Mining: During its lifespan, Australia’s Argyle Diamond Mine produced most of the world’s red diamonds. The mine was closed in 2020. Brazil is another source of reds.
Wondering which of the many diamond colors is best for you? Our elite list of vetted vendors like Blue Nile and James Allen are experts at listening and helping you determine which combo of the 4Cs is perfect for you - and nicely in budget.
Sources of Red Diamonds
Historically, the Argyle Diamond Mine in Australia was the leading source of red diamonds. Although this mine closed in 2020, it produced some of the world’s finest red diamonds over its lifetime. Today, Brazil is one of the few remaining sources of these extraordinary gems, but they are still incredibly rare.
Buying Red Diamonds Online
Buying a red diamond is a significant investment, and finding the right one requires careful consideration. PriceScope’s diamond search tool allows you to browse over a million loose diamonds, including natural and lab-grown diamonds. Use the filters to find red diamonds that match your preferences for color, carat, and budget.
PriceScope Tip: Use our trusted vendors to ensure that the red diamond you are considering has been thoroughly vetted for authenticity and quality. Our vendor reviews can provide additional insights to help you make the right choice.
Own Earth’s Rarest Beauty: Explore our emerald red diamonds with trusted vendors like Blue Nile and James Allen. Start your search now and find the perfect gem for your collection or investment.
Final Thoughts
Red diamonds are among the rarest and most stunning gems in the world. Their scarcity, combined with their striking color, makes them a highly prized possession for collectors and investors alike. Whether you are looking to buy a red diamond for its beauty or its investment potential, these gemstones are truly one-of-a-kind and a symbol of luxury.
