The Exquisite Allure of Rare Red Diamonds

Imagine gazing upon a diamond whose hue is so rare, so exquisite, that it takes your breath away. Such is the allure of red diamonds, one of the rarest and most sought-after gemstones in the world. In this post, we will embark on a journey of discovery to explore the captivating science behind the formation of red diamonds, uncover their elusive locations, marvel at the legendary red diamonds that have captured our imaginations and delve into the cultural significance of these mysterious gems. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of red diamonds.

How Red Diamonds Are Formed

Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under intense pressure and heat. The color of a diamond is determined by the presence of certain impurities or defects within the crystal lattice structure. Red diamonds get their distinctive hue from a rare phenomenon known as plastic deformation, which occurs when the diamond crystal is subjected to intense pressure and stress during its formation.

This process causes the crystal lattice structure to become distorted, creating a unique coloration that ranges from pinkish-red to deep blood red. The presence of nitrogen in the diamond also contributes to the coloration, creating a range of shades and intensities.

Where Red Diamonds Are Found

Red diamonds are found in only a few locations around the world, including the Argyle mine in Western Australia, the Marange diamond fields in Zimbabwe and the Golconda mines in India. However, only a handful of red diamonds are produced each year, making them extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors and investors.

How Much Are Red Diamonds Worth?

Of the red diamonds discovered, the typical carat weight is usually quite small, with most stones weighing less than one carat. However, larger stones can command astronomical prices due to their rarity.

In addition to carat weight, the price of a red diamond can vary greatly depending on its color intensity and clarity. On average, red diamonds can range from around $100,000 per carat to over $1 million per carat for the highest-quality stones. The largest and most exceptional red diamonds, like the Moussaieff Red (see image above), can fetch tens of millions of dollars at auction.

Famous Red Diamonds

Some of the most famous red diamonds in the world include the Moussaieff Red, the Kazanjian Red and the Hancock Red.

The Moussaieff Red, weighing in at 5.11 carats, is the largest-known red diamond in the world. A rare and exceptional red diamond, the Moussaieff Red was discovered in Brazil in the 1990s and purchased by Moussaieff Jewellers Ltd., a high-end diamond dealer based in London. The Moussaieff Red is considered one of the most important and valuable diamonds in the world. Its exceptional size and intense red color make it a true masterpiece of nature and a highly coveted gemstone for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The Kazanjian Red is a rare and exquisite red diamond, known for its unique color and exceptional size. Weighing in at 5.05 carats, it’s one of the largest known red diamonds in the world. The diamond was discovered in Lichtenburg, South Africa, in the 1920s and was originally cut into a 35-carat stone. Over the years, the diamond was recut and refined, resulting in its current size and shape. The Kazanjian Red is named after the Kazanjian brothers, who purchased the diamond in 2007 and showcased it at exhibitions and diamond shows around the world. Its stunning red color, combined with its large size and historical significance, make it one of the most sought-after and valuable diamonds in the world today.

The Hancock Red, meanwhile, is renowned for its exceptional clarity and intense color. Weighing in at 0.95 carat, it’s a relatively small diamond, but its high quality and unique hue make it a highly sought-after gemstone. The diamond was discovered in South Africa in the mid 20th century and was named after its owner, Warren Hancock. The Hancock Red is believed to be one of only a handful of natural red diamonds in the world with a clarity rating of VS2 (very slightly included). Today, the diamond is owned by an anonymous collector and is occasionally displayed at exhibitions and diamond shows around the world.

Red Diamonds Throughout History

Red diamonds have been revered throughout history for their beauty and symbolism. In ancient India, they were considered a symbol of power and courage, while in Western culture, they are often associated with passion, love and romance. The famous 45.52-carat Hope Diamond is believed to have originated from a larger red diamond, which was owned by Louis XIV of France.

Where to See Red Diamonds Today

Red diamonds are extremely rare and are not typically found in jewelry stores. Instead, they are primarily sold at high-auction houses and specialized diamond dealers to those who purchase red diamonds as investments or collector’s items.

Red diamonds can, however, be seen in museums and exhibitions around the world. The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., for instance, has a collection of red diamonds, including the stunning 5.03-carat De Young Red, which is one of the largest and most exquisite red diamonds in the world.

In conclusion, red diamonds are truly one of nature’s most wondrous and awe-inspiring creations. Their scarcity, beauty, and cultural significance make them highly coveted by collectors and admirers alike, while their allure continues to captivate and inspire people around the world. Whether you’re a gemstone enthusiast or simply appreciate the finer things in life, a red diamond will undoubtedly take your breath away.