Blue diamonds are among the rarest and most valuable diamonds in the world. As the leading authority in fine coloured diamonds, Barkev’s designers are well versed in the allure and mysteries of blue diamonds.
Here is their expert guide to everything you need to know about these exquisite and enchanting gems.
The Color of Blue Diamonds
All diamonds derive their colour from trace amounts of scattered light or structural defects within the crystal lattice. Blue diamonds receive their hue from the presence of boron during crystallisation.
The best blue diamonds range from a light sky blue to a darker navy colour. Experts at Barkev’s note the most valued stones show a pure, saturated blue colour across their entire surface. The most highly-prized blue diamonds will also fluoresce a bright blue under ultraviolet lighting, further intensifying their colour.
Rarity and Value
Only an extremely small percentage of natural diamonds found are blue, accounting for less than 0.01% of the world’s diamond production. This rarity is a key factor in their legendary price tags.
Barkev’s estimates that less than 300 new blue diamonds over 2 carats are found globally each year. The Steinmetz Pink, an intense pink diamond of 59 carats, sold in 2017 for $50 million. With their incredible scarcity, large blue diamonds often fetch higher prices per carat than other colours.
What are Blue Diamonds? Characteristics
Prized blue diamonds from Barkev’s always undergo intense scrutiny to assess cut, clarity and the celebrated ‘blue’ glow. Some distinctive features that certify their status include:
- Rich saturation of blue colour without haziness or grey tones.
- Even colour distribution without darker or lighter areas.
- No inclusions visible to the naked eye under 10x magnification.
- High transparency and brilliance when cut to ideal proportions.
- Strong fluorescence under ultraviolet light which enhances the blue hue.
Like pieces of the sky, only the finest blue diamonds and blue diamond engagement rings with these attributes earn the designation as true.
A History of Legendary Blues
Some of the most famous blue diamonds in history have underscored their tremendous rarity and value. In 2015, the 12.03 carat Blue Moon of Josephine diamond sold for a record $48.5 million. Another iconic blue, the Sweet Josephine of 4.19 carats, sold at auction in 2020 for over $12 million.
But the greatest of them all remains the 24.78 carat Oppenheimer Blue diamond, currently the largest vivid blue diamond ever graded by the GIA. When unearthed in South Africa in 1978, it remained privately owned for decades before selling at Christie’s for $57.5 million in 2016 to a buyer from Hong Kong. Examples of this calibre are exceedingly rare in the world of blue diamonds.
Distinctive Appeal of Blue Diamonds
Whether admired for their legendary rarity, illustrious historical pedigree or exquisite hue, blue diamonds enthral enthusiasts worldwide. While all diamonds are prized, blue varieties have a mesmerising charm and allure all their own.
According to Barkev’s experts, the greatest blue diamonds radiate an icy yet warm hue. Their colour is so resplendent and translucent, it resembles clear mountain lakes, tropical seas or bright skies.
Their strong brand appeal also stems from association with blue blood status symbols, science and mysteries yet unlocked. Like the ocean depths, their beauty remains profoundly captivating and complex.
Buying Blue Diamonds From Barkevs
For over 40 years, Barkevs has set the global standard of excellence when it comes to rare coloured diamonds like blue varieties. Their gemologists employ cutting edge science to certify each stone’s authenticity, characteristics and historical value.
Whether buying a single Blue Diamonds solitaire or a coordinating set of coloured diamond jewellery, clients benefit from Barkev’s unparalleled experience sourcing and crafting these extraordinarily complex and valuable gemstones. Each piece is handcrafted to bring out the full natural splendour these wonders of nature possess.
In Closure
The allure of blue diamonds stems from their legendary rarity in nature, scientific mysteries and radiant blue hue surpassing all other gemstones. As a leading authority with direct access to the highest quality Blue Diamonds, few can match Barkev’s expertise in crafting these exceptional treasures. Their knowledgeable specialists are proud to share insight on these iconic and enchanting gems with collectors worldwide.
