Everything There Is to Know About Gorgeous Blue Diamond Engagement Rings
A gorgeous color, limited availability and an iconic reputation make blue diamond engagement rings feel extremely glamorous and extra alluring—the Hope Diamond is a blue diamond, for example. There's something a little mysterious about this rare colored gemstone and that probably has to do with the hefty price tag. Blue diamonds are among some of the priciest gems out there, meaning this isn't something you're going to see on just anyone (case in point: Jennifer Lopez famously wore a blue diamond ring during her engagement and marriage to Marc Anthony).
Still, it's hard to deny how beautiful these stones are, so it's only natural to be interested in them, especially if you're in search of a unique or custom engagement ring. Read on to learn everything there is to know about blue diamonds and shop some of our favorite blue diamond engagement rings.
In this article:
- Are Blue Diamonds Real Diamonds?
- The Meaning of a Blue Diamond Engagement Ring
- Choosing a Blue Diamond Engagement Ring
- 9 Blue Diamond Engagement Rings to Shop Now
Are Blue Diamonds Real Diamonds?
They may look a little out of this world, but blue diamonds are real diamonds. There are natural blue diamonds out there, but according to the International Gem Society, they are extremely rare. The fact that there are so few natural blue diamonds and such high demand for them is what drives the price up so much.
Natural blue diamonds are usually created by the presence of boron, a chemical element that can lead to discoloration of the diamonds as they form, making them appear blue. In rare cases, they can be caused by exposure to radiation or hydrogen impurities. They're only found in a few mine locations in the world, including in South Africa and Australia.
Today, scientists are able to create this type of diamond in a lab just as they can create white diamonds. While these are still real diamonds, lab-created ones are not technically real blue diamonds—they are white diamonds that have been tinted blue. Lab-grown blue diamonds are at a much more affordable price point than natural blue diamonds because they are not nearly as rare.
The Meaning of a Blue Diamond Engagement Ring
Blue diamonds have been one of the most elusive gemstones for many years, and the largest and most expensive ones are also the most famous. There are many iconic blue diamonds out there, such as the Hope Diamond, a 45.52-carat deep blue diamond found on display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. The Laguna Blu Diamond, an 11.6-carat diamond estimated to be worth more than $25 million, is another popular piece that was notably worn by Priyanka Chopra at the 2023 Met Gala.
Because of their rarity and high price point, natural blue diamonds are widely considered to be a status symbol. However, they are also said to symbolize tranquility and serenity, trust and loyalty, and spiritual awareness. Every engagement ring is special, of course, but a blue diamond engagement ring might feel a little extra special.
Choosing a Blue Diamond Engagement Ring
On the hunt for a blue diamond engagement ring? There are a few things to think about as you shop.
Natural vs. Lab-Grown
Natural blue diamonds are found in only a handful of mines around the world and are considered extremely rare. Because of this, they're very expensive—you can expect to pay thousands, if not millions, depending on the size and quality of the stone. That said, they're also an investment, as their value will only increase over time.
Lab-created blue diamonds are generally white diamonds tinted to look blue. While these are still real diamonds, they aren't true blue diamonds, and they also aren't as rare. The price will be lower, but the color may be different than what a real blue diamond would be. If you love the look of a blue diamond but can't afford a natural one, a lab-grown blue diamond is a good option.
Color
The color of natural blue diamonds comes from the presence of boron in the earth and can vary greatly. They will usually have a little bit of gray in them, which is one reason they don't have the same color as a blue sapphire, which is usually more saturated. Blue diamonds range in color from a very light blue that almost looks gray to a deeper darker blue to a brighter, almost turquoise-like blue. The color scale for blue diamonds goes from Faint to Fancy to Fancy Dark. These diamonds can be treated to enhance their natural color, and the naturally vibrant ones are the most rare and the most expensive.
Quality
Like white diamonds, blue diamonds are extremely durable and ideal for everyday wear. That said, their quality can vary. Many people prefer to look for blue diamonds that have minimal obvious color zoning. It's not unusual for blue diamonds to have microscopic inclusions, since they grow so deep in the earth, but they are usually very clean and clear. In general, blue diamonds are considered high quality—it's hard to find one that's not.
How to Match With a Metal
Consider what type of metal you want for your ring before selecting a blue diamond engagement ring. This is entirely a personal decision, but many people find that blue diamonds look best with white gold or platinum settings and bands. Of course, you can still find them with yellow gold if that's what you prefer.
9 Blue Diamond Engagement Rings to Shop Now
Whether you want a natural blue diamond engagement ring or a lab-grown blue diamond engagement ring, there are plenty of options available. Shop below for some stand-out favorites.
Melanie Casey Myriad Ring
This 2.3-carat blue diamond center stone comes in a gorgeous light blue that looks so unique and different. Bright white diamonds add some extra sparkle in a cluster around the diamond, with a delicate floral-like design that makes this colorful engagement ring feel more feminine. It sits on a very thin band and negative space around the center stone just accents it more.
Zac Posen Lab-Grown Blue Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
This cushion-cut blue diamond engagement ring features a stunning mix of lab-grown white diamonds and a lab-grown blue diamond. White diamonds make up a glittering halo that helps lift the center stone and makes it appear larger, with a cathedral brand that makes it feel even more elegant.
Abby Sparks Nebula Celestial Teal Blue Diamond Engagement Ring
With a celestial feel, this engagement ring is mysterious and very alluring. It features a gorgeous 2.22-carat blue diamond in an opaque color that features teal, deep navy and even some cream streaks. Gemstone clusters on either side contain Montana sapphires and champagne diamonds for an overall earthy and natural look that is full of color in the best way.
Melanie Casey Poppy Seed Ring
For a slightly more affordable natural blue diamond engagement ring, opt for this 1.73-carat ring. It features a round-cut sky-blue diamond with six prongs in an open basket setting. A very thin band and two tiny pavé diamonds on either side make this one delicate and feminine.
Grown Brilliance Fancy Blue Cushion Lab Grown Diamond Three Stone Engagement Ring
Available in a vibrant fancy blue shade, this lab-grown diamond ring has a 3.3-carat center stone that really makes it stand out. Trillion-shaped lab-grown white diamonds adorn each side, and you can choose between white, yellow or rose gold or platinum for the band.
Liori Certified Fancy Blue Diamond Engagement Ring
With a stunning 3.51-carat natural fancy blue diamond, this ring is a real showstopper. It's surrounded by glittering micro pavé set white diamonds that form a halo and adorn the split shank band for an overall look that is glamorous and luxurious. The band is made in 18k white gold that doesn't distract from the stones.
Grown Brilliance Truly Custom Fancy Blue Oval Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Ring
This lab-grown blue diamond weighs in at 4 carats, so it definitely makes an impression. It's surrounded on either side by two trillion cut white diamonds for added sparkle.
Joseph Jewelry White Gold Custom Blue Diamond Engagement Ring
This ring is a way to add blue diamonds to your engagement ring without making them the centerpiece. It features a princess cut diamond in the center, with a three-stone setting complete with round side diamonds and pavé set white diamond accents. Blue bezel set diamonds are on the platinum shank for some added elegance. This is a glittering take on a classic look.
Day's Jewelers Cushion Blue Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
This ring is proof that blue diamonds mix well with rose gold too. It features a 1-carat cushion-cut blue diamond with a glittering halo of pavé diamonds and more diamonds along the band. This blue diamond rose gold engagement ring is beautiful, feminine and so different, and even seems a little vintage-inspired.