Colorless diamonds are still the most popular choice for engagement rings, but more couples are looking towards fancy pink diamonds as a unique alternative. Before you purchase a pink diamond, there are a number of things you should know.

What are Pink Diamonds?

While colorless diamonds are comprised of pure carbon, a certain type of chemical reaction affects how some diamonds reflect light, which results in colored diamonds. Gemologists aren’t sure what creates pink diamonds; as such, pink diamonds are very rare and quite expensive.

How to Determine Quality

Pink diamonds are still diamonds, so you should familiarize yourself with the 4 C’s (cut, color, clarity and carat weight.) While these are all very important when determining the value of a pink diamond, the intensity of color is the most telling characteristic of a pink diamond.

Pink diamonds are available in a range of hues, from a very light pale pink to deep magenta. The more intense the color, the higher the cost. The majority of commercial pink diamonds come in lighter hues, but even so they are still more expensive than traditional colorless diamonds because of their rarity. While pink diamonds should, ideally, be relatively flawless, many jewelers will work around a flaw because of the stone’s rarity, even though most flaws can decrease the value of a gem in typical circumstances. However, because pink diamonds are so rare, jewelers are able to work around some flaws and create unique designs and patterns that they wouldn’t bother doing with similar quality flawed gemstones.

Using Pink Diamonds in Engagement Rings

Pink diamonds are a unique choice for engagement rings and are just as symbolic as traditional white diamonds. If you choose a pink diamond for your engagement ring, there are a variety of styles, settings and shapes to choose from. If you are lucky enough and able to afford a loose stone, you can find a reputable jeweler to create a custom engagement ring for you.

Avoid yellow gold bands when using pink diamonds, as the gold can cast a yellowish hue onto the stone. Instead, stick with white gold or platinum for your band. Because pink diamonds are so unique, couples would do well to create a simple setting, perhaps with accent stones, to complement the diamond.

Even though pink diamonds are an increasingly popular choice for use in engagement rings, their inherent rarity and cost can be a stretch for some couples. If that is the case, consider using pink diamonds as accent stones rather than the center stone. Alternatively, other pink stones such as pink sapphires, tourmaline or lighter hued rubies are an excellent choice and more affordable.

For the bride-to-be who desires a distinctive, unique engagement ring, pink diamonds are an excellent gemstone. Though rare and quite expensive, their cost hasn’t stopped many couples from turning to this beautiful diamond for use in their engagement ring.