These diamonds were mined in the Argyle mine in Western Australia. Almost 90% of the pink diamonds seen in the world come from here but they are considered the rarest of the rare pink diamonds. So, buying them is not a common practice. That is why, a beginner must know certain things about them and be guided before buying Argyle pink diamonds.
Hues of Pink
Argyle pink diamonds are known for the range of the pink color that is displayed by them. As compared to pink diamonds mined from the rest of the world, the Argyle diamonds usually have more saturation of pink.
The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has created a color grading system for Argyle pink diamonds and they are divided into four categories: Purplish Pink (PP), Pink (P), Pink Rosé (PR), and Pink Champagne (PC). The grading ranges from 1 to 9 with the latter being the lowest while the former is the highest grade. The grading for Pink Champagne only ranges from 1 to 3.
Rarity of These Diamonds
Since the Argyle mine supplied the world with 90% of the pink diamonds in the market before they closed down, they were already considered rare because of how few could be mined in an entire year. The pink diamonds obtained from other mines are no match for them since they are always faint pink and cannot achieve the vibrancy of pink seen in the Argyle diamonds. Now that the mines have been closed, these diamonds have become even rarer and more coveted than before.
Hardness of the Gem
These diamonds achieve their pink colour after receiving additional stress from their surroundings and the rock within which they are found. This additional stress is also the reason why Argyle pink diamonds are considered to be very hard and dense as compared to other pink diamonds.
The Most Pleasing Cuts
Argyle pink diamonds are beautiful with vibrant pink hues and that is one of the reasons, any kind of cut suits them. Whether the diamond is cut in a round, oval, pear, cushion, asscher, or marquise, its beauty will not be affected but only enhanced. Whether the gem is cut symmetrically or asymmetrically, it retains its colour and reflective qualities in full form.
Metals that Pair Well
Both white and yellow gold pair well with the Argyle pink diamonds and make great jewelry, especially engagement rings. Even platinum matches nicely with the pink of the Argyle diamonds. Rings with these metal bands are sure to be highly coveted.
Size of These Diamonds
The pink diamonds that are mined from the Argyle mine are quite small, even smaller than other pink or white diamonds. It is very rare to see big Argyle pink diamonds as they mostly range from 0.01ct to 0.19ct. Pinks diamonds larger than that are extremely high in demand in the market because of their rarity.
Price Compared to White Diamonds
Because of the fact that pink diamonds are rare, they are already extremely high in demand, but the scene of the market is completely different when it comes to Argyle pink diamonds. People clamour to have them as their beauty makes them very appealing for jewelry. This is why they are at least 20 times costlier than a white diamond.
The Bottom Line
These were a few things a beginner should know about these beautiful and rare diamonds before investing in them. Argyle Pink Diamond Rings are perfect as engagement rings. So, learn which diamond cut, hue and size you wish to have in the pink diamond you buy and then start searching!