ABOUT SALT & PEPPER DIAMONDS
Beauty In Imperfection
What you need to know...
As Unique As You Are
Salt and pepper diamonds derive their name from the attractive specks of black and grey peppered within their crystals.
Some also contain elements of cognac colouring and each one is as unique as you are.
They are natural, mined diamonds with signicant inclusions, typically of clarity grade I3 (Included x 3)
But to be considered a salt and pepper diamond, the nature of these inclusions must be suitably scattered and pleasing to the eye.
So, just like every diamond, not all salt and pepper diamonds are created equal. It is important to choose a stone with desirable patterns and the appropriate disbursement of inclusions.
This is inevitably subjective to some degree and down to individual taste.
All Pobjoy salt & pepper diamonds are handpicked to ensure each stone looks simply sensational.
* Our salt & pepper diamond rings of one carat and over come with independent certification of diamond authenticity, issued by the World Gemological Laboratory (WGI) in London, UK.
1. Types Of Specks
These may be very dark grey with concentrated patterns, appearing almost spotted.
Alternatively the distribution of inclusions appears more scattered with lighter grey tones.
Some diamonds may also display hints of cognac colouring.
For it to be a salt and pepper diamond, rather than just an included diamond, the pattern must be reasonably scattered without very large, dark blemishes.
You should also check for significant inclusions across the surface. The fewer the better.
2. Symmetry & Polish
If you are going for a "fancy shape" diamond, such as an emarald or kite, it is important to check the symmetry first.
A diamond with poor symmetry will look skewed, especially if it's a larger carat weight set in a ring or item of jewellery.
The polish is not quite so critical, but we would nevertheless tend to avoid anything less than a good polish grading.
3. Faceting & Cut
A salt and pepper diamond does not sparkle in the same way as a brilliant cut colourless diamond.
It has less facets and is often cut without a pointed culet underneath, which is called a rose cut.
4. Certification
Because they are inherently included by nature, the GIA does not grade salt and pepper diamonds. *
Therefore it is important to have confidence in the jeweller supplying your stone, to ensure it is a natural diamond and corresponds with the key specifications described to you.