Wendy Hickok Photography
The chief operating officer of Zachary’s Jewelers explains why these speckled, smoky stones are forever fun.
First things first: we’re a little confused. What are salt and pepper diamonds? Constance Polamalu: Salt and pepper diamonds are heavily included diamonds. Unlike a traditional white diamond, which is flawless, these diamonds have something trapped in the crystal structure, which creates a peppered effect.
It seems salt and pepper diamonds are suddenly very desirable. Why now? CP: A few really smart designers found the beauty in salt and pepper diamonds and started doing cool things with them! For a long time, people were really set in their beauty standards, but we’re seeing those standards change across the board. Consumers who are looking for something different and unique are [especially attracted] to salt and pepper diamonds. No two diamonds are alike ever, but that’s even more apparent with salt and pepper diamonds.
Is it true that salt and pepper diamonds can be more affordable than traditional diamonds? CP: Yes, they should be much less expensive than diamonds with a higher clarity. There is a smaller market for imperfect diamonds, so that keeps the price lower. That said, the diamonds that have a particularly attractive display of inclusions can still command a higher price than one might ordinarily expect for the category. For example, a diamond that looks like a striking dalmation coat might trade higher than a stone that looks like a murky pond.
Wendy Hickok Photography
Wendy Hickok Photography
So, what are the drawbacks of salt and pepper stones? CP: Because of the inclusions in the stone, salt and pepper diamonds can be more brittle than traditional diamonds. For people like me, who are really hard on their jewelry, a salt and pepper diamond as an engagement ring wouldn’t work. But as an earring, I wouldn’t have issues.
Does brittle mean prone to breaking? What would happen if you wore a salt and pepper diamond ring every day? Yes, most people know that diamonds are the hardest substance known to man and think that means they are indestructible. In reality, the Mohs Hardness Scale, where diamonds are ranked the hardest, refers to scratch resistance. Additionally, inclusions are an interruption of diamond structure, which can create more fragile sections of a diamond.
Do you have any advice for someone looking to purchase this unusual stone? In my experience, it takes a little longer to find the right one. The best way to start is with a picture, to make sure that we are on the same page about what is meant by “salt and pepper.” I also tell couples to keep an open mind. People often think they know what they want but they end up falling in love with something else.
