Black Diamond Rings: The Edgy Alternative for Women and Men
While black diamonds are certainly unique, we’d argue that they can be just as elegant and timeless as traditional diamonds.
And, as we witnessed on Sex and the City, black diamonds aren’t for just us punk rock, goth-loving girls. Carrie totally rocked her black diamond engagement ring, as did fierce, real-life ladies like Carmen Electra and Jennie Garth.
Guys can pull off this look too. Men’s black diamond rings exude confidence and composure. Mysterious, dark, and handsome? Yes, please!
Clearly, we’re completely on board with black diamond rings. They’re bold, edgy, and a brilliant choice for couples who want to show off their personal style.
And if you’re in the market for one of these coal-colored beauties, you’re in luck! We’ve curated a list of our favorite black diamond rings for your browsing pleasure. But no pressure! (…Get it? Diamond pun.)
About Black Diamond Rings
When you first hear the phrase “black diamond rings”, shady business dealings may pop to mind. But we’re talking about actual “black” diamonds, not black-market diamonds.
These inky gems are definitely the rock stars of the gem world. They’re modern, edgy, and here to stay as a popular diamond choice for both men and women. But what are black diamonds – and are they really diamonds at all?
There are two types of natural gemstones used to make black diamond rings: colorless diamonds with mass inclusions, and carbonados.
True dark diamonds, known as “fancy black diamonds”, are colorless stones with a lot of inclusions. Inclusions can be thought of as “birthmarks” within the diamond – basically, small amounts of matter and material that became caught up within the stone as it formed.
When picking a traditional white diamond, inclusions are considered an undesirable flaw. But when it comes to black diamonds you want the most inclusions possible, and to find them evenly distributed across the stone. This leads to the diamond’s black color.
Generally, these diamonds come from the earth with an uneven grey or salt-and-pepper appearance. Radiation is used to deepen and even out their black coloring.
The second black diamond material is an amalgam of natural materials known as carbonados. But because carbonados aren’t made solely of pure diamond, they’re not technically considered true diamonds.
Nevertheless, carbonados are gorgeous! A carbonado has a specific composition: diamond, graphite, and carbon. Each material in this aggregate gives a carbonado its enchanting qualities, resulting in a shiny, durable, and smooth stone. Because they include diamond crystals and are carbon-based, they’re often sought after for tool and machine production.
Since carbonados are not truly thought of as diamonds, they have always been more valued for their industrial uses rather than their use in jewelry.
Our Favorite Black Diamond Rings
Whether you are shopping for a black diamond accent ring or want to pull the trigger on a black diamond engagement ring, our lineup features a variety of stunning options.
1. Black Diamond Ring
by Leibish
This ring is the definition of classic meets cool! It features an unheated 3.05 ct. Natural Fancy Black diamond as its center stone, perfectly cut to catch the light. Equally dazzling is the 18k white gold split shank encrusted with glittering pavé diamonds. The “tiger claw” setting totally elevates the edginess of this knockout ring.
2. Black Diamond Eternity Ring
by Blue Nile
Chic and modern, this black diamond eternity ring is perfect for the minimalist. Its round black diamonds form an unending band, each with a pavé setting in 18k yellow gold. She could wear it as a wedding band with her engagement ring, or mix and match it with other simple bands. It’s just a little bit edgy without being too risqué.
3. Black Lab Diamond Signet Ring
This diamond is lab-created, but no one ever has to know! Its unnatural beginnings mean that it’s incredibly black and very striking. We adore its eye-catching hexagon-shaped frame, which really makes the multi-faceted stone pop!
You can customize the setting and shank with your choice of yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, or platinum.
4. Black Rose Cut Diamond
by Catbird
This diamond may not be the blackest, but we still are in love with its natural dusky color. Almost as interesting as the stone itself is the setting. The oval cut diamond is set in a horizontal position, instead of the traditional vertical orientation. On each side is beautiful scrollwork that includes Prounis jewels made from an alloy of gold, copper, and silver. This results in a gorgeous shade that grows increasingly luminous with wear and time.
5. Leaf Design Black Diamond Ring
by Etsy: VidarBoutique
Can it get any more rock and roll than this? Black, on black, on black!
14kt black gold is handcrafted into a blooming lotus flower. At the center, the blossom holds a glittering round-cut black diamond. The base of the flower and sides of the band feature finely detailed leaves fashioned out of black gold. It’s absolutely one of a kind – ideal for any girl who dances through life to her own tune!
6. Three Stone Black Diamond Ring
by Angara
This three-stone ring is positively breathtaking. We love the meaning behind a trio of stones, usually signifying the past, present, and future. The largest of the stones, a black enhanced diamond, rests between two smaller black diamonds. Set in a 14k white gold shank, this timeless ring makes a bold statement.
7. Round Cut Black Diamond Ring
by Gemvara
This deep inky black ring certainly makes an impression. Flawlessly round, its simple shape only enhances the brilliance created by this gem’s multi-faceted surface. The 14k yellow gold band is sleek, featuring an elegant figure-eight pattern and a minimalist prong setting. This black diamond ring mixes a classic silhouette with a modern band for an utterly sophisticated look.
8. Rectangular Ring
by Saks: Pomellato
If you’re a fan of black diamonds, it’s probably safe to say that you’re a fan of the non-traditional. In which case, this ring will suit your tastes perfectly!
An unadorned, lustrous 18k rose gold band holds an impressive rectangular setting. Within the bezel rests a host of sparkling pavé black diamonds in three different sizes. This ring’s unusual style is quite eye-catching and would make a wonderful statement piece in any woman’s collection.
9. Oval Cut Black Diamond Ring
by Gemvara
Have you ever laid eyes on a more gorgeous diamond engagement ring?! The deep hue of the center stone, a black diamond cut into a classic oval shape, is positively magnificent. Its dazzling surface is enhanced by the starburst of smaller colorless diamonds that make up its border. A sleek and simple rose gold band emphasizes the gems’ brilliance and is the perfect addition to this unforgettable ring.
10. Cushion Cut Black Diamond Ring
by Etsy: AmberjackJewellery
Cushion cut diamonds have become increasingly popular. Looking at this cushion black diamond ring, it is easy to see why!
The cushion-cut of the large black diamond is the ideal shape for this alternative engagement ring. If you’re picking a standout color like black, then you might as well choose a unique cut too! The petite 14k white gold band is encrusted with smaller black pavé diamonds for an impressive “all-black” look.
11. Black Diamond Bridal Set
by Etsy: ShyFineJewelry
Lab-created black diamonds usually possess the darkest coloring, and this stunning set is no exception. The engagement ring features a 1 carat round center stone, set within a halo of radiant natural diamonds. The small, sparkling gems continue from the halo to the band, completely encrusting the thin rose gold shank. The wedding band consists of natural diamonds set within an art-deco-inspired rose gold band.
Together, the bridal set is glamorous with a hint of edginess rock and roll (dare we say grunge?).
12. Willis Ring
by Diamondere
Points for uniqueness? Ten out of ten!
You already know this ring will feature a black diamond – in this case, it’s a dazzling black diamond solitaire with coloring as dark as the furthest reaches of outer space. The setting is crafted from ethereal 14k white gold. Two bands of precious metal seem to magically balance the stone between them. It would make a striking ring for either daily wear or special events.
Men’s Black Diamond Rings
Ladies can’t have all the fun! These distinguished black diamond rings for men are sure to stand out.
13. Men’s Black Diamond Ring
Impressive and imposing, this men’s black diamond ring really makes a statement. Its dramatic band is formed from platinum, featuring a styled hexagonal bezel. Within the setting rests a natural, fancy black diamond. The matte finish of the band perfectly complements the radiance of the cushion-cut diamond.
14. Men’s Black Diamond Wedding Band
by Blue Nile
Sometimes you want a wedding band that’s just a little rock and roll but also refined. This black diamond band fits the bill!
It’s largely made of 14kt white gold with an elegant brushed finish. Its width is flattering for most men, and very comfortable. Within the band are six columns, each composed of small treated black diamonds stacked on top of one another. The final look is sophisticated, but also perfect for a diehard fan of Slash from Guns and Roses.
15. Channel Set Black Diamond Wedding Ring
by James Allen
We love the look of this comfort fit band. Its rounded edges and satin finish make it excellent for everyday wear. Far from your plain-jane wedding ring, it stuns with its center band of channel-set black diamonds. We love this sleek accessory for the modern groom.
16. Titanium & Silver with Black Diamond
by Saks: David Yurman
Unapologetically cool, this titanium and silver ring is a knock-out. Its all-black exterior is crafted from titanium while the comfortable interior is fashioned from silver. Lining the two is a nicely detailed braided silver accent. For added visual impact, a black diamond solitaire is inlaid at the top of the band and offset by a striking silver halo.
17. Tungsten & Black Diamond Ring
by Etsy: LazerBoyzDesigns
Tungsten is known for being durable, and while this ring may have tough-guy vibes, it’s still very handsome.
The black band has a charming brushed finish with sleek, polished edges as part of its pipe design. Inset on the top are three distinct black diamonds, each bordered by a ring of silver to highlight their brilliance. This is a wedding band John Wick would totally wear.
18. Black Zirconium with Black Diamond Wedding Band
by Etsy: KorusDesign
Zirconium is comparable to tungsten in durability and is usually a light silver-grey. But this zirconium ring has been heated to extreme levels, oxidizing its exterior to a breathtaking black. The matte band is severed, then outfitted with a lustrous black diamond that seems to effortlessly balance between the two shanks.
The finished product is an ultra-unique ring that is bold, daring, and quite dashing, if we do say so ourselves!
Black is Back!
But did it ever really leave?
While many other colors may have tried to take its place, black is infinitely cool, timeless, and always elegant. It’s the perfect choice for brides or grooms who are edgy, a little bit rock and roll, or just want a statement-making ring that veers from the traditional.
Despite their different gem cuts, settings, and band materials, these fantastic rings all have one thing in common…their brilliant inky black diamonds!
Megan Moore
Megan’s wedding experience began over a decade ago when planning her dream ceremony. Since then, three kids have been added to the mix. Megan wholeheartedly embraces all things baby, childhood, and family. When she isn’t writing or chasing little ones you can find her running, hiking, or reading.
