GREEN DIAMOND: A Lesser-Known Rarity

Green diamond may not be as widely known as other varieties of diamond, but this gem can be quite more expensive. Green diamonds rarely exceed 5 carats in size, and those that do accordingly command the highest prices. How are these extraordinary gems not as well-known as other varieties of diamond? And what gives green diamonds their peculiar color?

Time to read:

11 minutes

Table of Contents

Before the Emergence of Green Diamond

Before the arrival of green diamonds, the primary focus among diamonds was on the white or colorless stones. White diamonds have long been highly valued for their transparency and brilliance. On the other hand, of the green gems, the most valuable was emerald.

While white diamond continues to be the most widely recognized variety of diamond, the emergence of green diamonds expanded our choices of diamond to include a wider spectrum of colored gems. The natural color of green diamonds, ranging from subtle hues to intense shades, added a vibrant and distinct choice to the market, and accordingly captured the attention of collectors and gem enthusiasts.

As regards other green gemstones, while emeralds continue to be popular for their unique beauty, cultural significance and market value, green diamonds have since emerged as highly valuable green gems, even more valuable than emeralds.

Yet there is something quite different about the cause of coloration in green diamond. While that of emerald comes from the inclusion of chromium, vanadium and iron, the color of green diamond may not at all come from the inclusion of any element. What is a green diamond? What are the secrets behind its formation?

Intriguing Cause of Color in Green Diamond

The formation of green diamonds follows a similar process to that of other varieties of diamond, but with an additional factor that gives them their distinctive green color. Diamonds, including green diamonds, form deep within the Earth’s mantle under intense pressure and high temperatures. The carbon atoms present in the mantle undergo crystallization over millions of years, eventually resulting in the formation of diamonds. What brings these diamonds closer to the Earth’s surface is volcanic eruption, in which rapidly rising magma acts as a conduit to transport diamonds and other minerals to the Earth’s surface. This volcanic activity provides the opportunity for diamonds to come within reach of mining operations.

As regards the color, green diamonds acquire their green hue through exposure to natural radiation during their formation. The presence of radioactive elements, such as uranium or thorium, in the vicinity of the diamond crystals may have led to their capacity to absorb and alter light in a manner that displays a green coloration. Unfortunately, the exact mechanisms in which natural radiation imparts a green color to diamonds are still the subject of ongoing scientific research.

Along with radiation-induced irregularities, the presence of impurities – particularly nitrogen, hydrogen and nickel – also contribute to a green in diamonds, though in less frequency. In either case, the resulting peculiar hue makes green diamonds exceptionally rare.

This article is part of the series
DIAMOND COLORS

Advantages of Green Diamond

Green diamonds have several advantages that make them highly sought after among collectors, gem enthusiasts and jewelry connoisseurs.

1. Rarity

Compared to other varieties, green diamonds are exceptionally rare. They account for less than 0.07% of all diamonds mined. This rarity adds to their allure and makes them a desirable choice for those seeking unique and exclusive gemstones. For these reasons, green diamonds are highly valuable.

2. Unique Color

The vibrant green color of green diamonds sets them apart from other colored diamonds. Unlike diamonds that derive their color from the inclusion of trace elements, green diamonds acquire their green hue through exposure to natural radiation during their formation. This unique coloration makes green diamonds both captivating and distinctive.

3. Various Shades

Green diamonds can exhibit a wide range of shades, from subtle pastel greens to deep and vivid hues. The intensity of the green color varies among individual stones, thus allowing for a diverse array of options to suit different preferences. It needs mention, however, that the more intense and vivid the green hue is, the rarer and more valuable is the diamond.

Pale green diamond — Image of pale green diamond

4. Color Combinations

Green diamonds often have secondary colors or color modifiers, which could enhance their visual appeal. These secondary colors include yellow, blue and gray. They create intriguing color combinations within the diamond, and the resulting unique shades make each green diamond truly one-of-a-kind, thus adding to their desirability.

5. Individuality and Exclusivity

Green diamonds offer a chance to own a gemstone that is truly unique, standing out from the crowd. Each green diamond possesses its own combination of color, intensity and other characteristics, thus making it a distinct and individual gem. Owning a green diamond allows for a personal connection to an exceptionally rare piece of nature’s beauty.

6. Investment Value

Green diamonds have shown a consistent increase in value over time, which makes them attractive for investment purposes. Green diamonds have a track record of holding their value and even appreciating at a higher rate compared to some other investments. The rarity and exclusivity of green diamonds contribute to their potential for long-term appreciation.

7. Symbolic Meaning

The color green often bears association with nature, growth and fertility. Green diamonds can thus hold these symbolic meanings too. They also represent harmony, abundance and renewal. As a result, green diamonds may figure in custom jewelry that conveys such a personal message.

Most Famous Green Diamond

The most famous green diamond, exemplifying the beauty and rarity of the gem, is the Dresden Green Diamond. The Dresden Green is an exceptional gemstone with a unique history and captivating appearance. Known for its vivid green color, the stone weighs approximately 41 carats, the largest for a natural green diamond. This gem is not only the largest, but possibly also the finest natural green diamond in existence. The Dresden Green possesses a pure and intense green hue, with excellent transparency and brilliance.

Sourced from the Golconda region of India, the Dresden Green bears historical association with European royalty. Acquired by Friedrich Augustus I of Saxony in the early 18th century, the green diamond subsequently became part of the royal Saxon treasure. The diamond takes its name from the city of Dresden, in whose museum known as the Green Vault the historic gem has appeared on display.

What makes the Dresden Green particularly exceptional is the combination of size, color and historical significance. Its intense green color, rarity and impressive weight make it a true gemological treasure that exemplifies the beauty and allure of green diamonds. The Dresden Green stands as an iconic symbol of its extraordinary and captivating genus, and showcases the unique status of green diamonds as some of the most coveted and remarkable gemstones in existence.

The Dresden Gem in its hat pin — Dresden Green on its hat pin
From Gubelin, Eduard, CC BY-SA 4.0

Disadvantages of Green Diamond

Yet the green diamond is not without its disadvantages.

1. Rarity and Availability

While the rarity of green diamonds contributes to their desirability, this also means that they can be more challenging to find and acquire. Green diamonds are not as readily available as other diamonds, thus limiting the options of those seeking green diamonds of a specific size, shape or quality.

2. Price

The rarity and desirability of green diamonds result in price points higher than those of other colored diamonds. On account of their scarcity, intensity of color and overall quality, the cost of green diamonds can be quite immense. This accordingly requires a higher budget, which makes them less accessible to some buyers.

3. Color Preference

There are varying personal preferences when it comes to color, and not everyone likes the color of green diamonds. Some individuals may prefer other varieties, such as white and yellow diamonds, or other colored gemstones entirely, like rubies and sapphires.

4. Secondary Colors

Green diamonds can have secondary colors or color modifiers – like yellow, blue or gray – which can affect the stones’ overall appearance and desirability for certain buyers. While some individuals appreciate the unique color combinations found in green diamonds, others may prefer a pure and uniform green color.

5. Clarity and Inclusions

Like all diamonds, green diamonds can have inclusions and flaws, such as internal fractures, blemishes or other imperfections. The presence of such defects can affect the overall clarity and perceived quality of the diamond.

6. Market Demand

Green diamonds may not have the same level of mainstream popularity as white diamonds or other colored diamonds, like blue and pink. This can influence the resale value of green diamonds, and the ease of finding interested buyers. Thus, compared to other more popular varieties, selling a green diamond may require more effort and time.

Biggest Disadvantage of Green Diamond

The biggest disadvantage of green diamonds is their rarity and consequent limited availability. Compared to other varieties, green diamonds are exceptionally rare, making them harder to find and acquire. This rarity contributes to their higher price, which can be a significant deterrent for some individuals.

The scarcity of green diamonds also poses challenges to those seeking specific characteristics, such as size, shape or quality. While these may be readily available in other colors, finding a green diamond that meets one’s specific preferences can be more challenging. Hence, the limited supply of green diamonds means that the options for customization and variety may be more restricted, making it more difficult to find a green diamond that perfectly matches individual tastes and requirements.

The combination of rarity and higher price creates a barrier for potential buyers who may have budget constraints or are looking for more specific options. Indeed, green diamonds may not be as widely accessible as other diamond colors, and may thus be less suitable for certain individuals.

Arrival of More Green Diamond

While green diamonds remain incredibly rare, there have been other significant green diamonds that have come to light besides the Dresden Green. Indeed, while the Dresden Green is the most famous green diamond in history, there are other notable green diamonds.

Triangular-cut blue-green diamond — The Ocean Dream is a triangular blue-green gem.

1. The Ocean Dream Diamond

This is a remarkable 5.51-carat green diamond known for its unique vivid blue-green color. The fancy diamond came to light in the Central African Republic and gained attention for its exceptional beauty and rarity.

2. The Aurora Green Diamond

This diamond, weighing 5.03 carats, made headlines in 2016 when it sold at an auction for a record-breaking price. The Aurora Green features a vivid green color and made a new record as the most valuable green diamond ever sold.

Rectangular-cut green diamond — The Aurora Green is a rectangular-cut diamond.

As one would notice, while the Dresden Green impresses with its size, the next notable diamonds are rather small, weighing only about 5 carats. Larger green diamonds remain exceptionally rare and more elusive. When they do appear in the market, they are liable to meet intense interest from collectors and connoisseurs, and thus command higher prices.

Growing Appreciation of Green Diamond

The few significant green diamonds that we know expand our knowledge and appreciation of them, as well as reinforce their status as rare and valuable gems. Hence, as new discoveries occur and more green diamonds come to light, our appreciation of their beauty and rarity continues to grow. There is no surprise indeed how green diamonds remain highly valuable and desirable, despite how less often we see or hear of them.

Article published

July 14, 2023 3:19 AM UTC

Parts of the best gem cut, the brilliant

Explore Diamond’s Cuts

Check the different shapes and patterns that bring out the beauty of diamond.

View Diamond’s Cuts

Delving into the World of Diamonds

The author wrote this article as he conducted his research for an upcoming book about Diamonds. ‘Diamond, its Magic and History’ is still a work in progress. In the meantime, readers can check his existing publication.

About the Author

Jomar Pandan

Jomar ‘Deomar’ Pandan is the author of Power Birthstone. He’s on the fourth draft of a high-fantasy novel, Cybelym, and the first of a historical fiction, Gem Faerie. He hopes to release a nonfiction book about diamond soon. Follow him for updates. Or see his jewelry and designs.