Have you heard of a galaxy diamond before?
Looking at a galaxy diamond is like looking into a clear night sky with hundreds of twinkling stars floating in the dark metallic depths of a stone. Imagine having all the secrets of the cosmos encapsulated in one beautiful ring.
Intrigued?
Keep reading to learn more about this unique diamond and why it’s a favorite alternative engagement ring style in Portland and beyond.
What is a galaxy diamond?
These mesmerizing stones are not your typical clear diamonds; they boast a celestial essence within. Each one of them is unique, with patterns that mimic the breathtaking beauty of distant galaxies.
Galaxy diamonds are gray diamonds that fit a few specific characteristics:
- A diamond filled with inclusions (specks) that are black or white
- Darker in color, sometimes with an inky, metallic blue hue
- Full cut or rose cut diamond
This starry night diamond offers a mysterious yet enchanting vibe that is difficult not to love. It makes a one-of-a-kind statement and is popular among couples who prefer an alternative engagement ring style.
What’s the difference between galaxy diamonds and salt and pepper diamonds?
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| Salt and pepper diamond | Galaxy diamond |
Think of it this way — all galaxy diamonds are salt and pepper diamonds, but not all salt and pepper diamonds are galaxy diamonds.
Both salt and pepper diamonds and galaxy diamonds are filled with a mix of many black and white inclusions. These inclusions affect the diamond's overall appearance, giving it a unique speckled look.
Included in this group of diamonds are those that appear darker, more metallic than the others. These diamonds often look black or blue, and have what can only be described as a spacey, celestial appearance.
Additionally, while salt and pepper diamonds are most always rose-cut, it’s more common for a galaxy diamond to come in a full-cut shape.
Is a galaxy diamond a real diamond?
Yes. Galaxy diamonds are genuine, earth-mined, untreated natural diamonds.
This starry night diamond is formed as it comes into contact with increased levels of hydrogen or baron during its formation period. The interaction with these elements causes the structure and color of the stone to change, producing different hues.
Additionally, the extreme pressure and heat the stone experiences during formation creates all the little inclusions in the stone (which give it the speckled, starry look).
How rare are galaxy diamonds?
Gray and salt and pepper diamonds are colorful diamonds, so they are considered very rare. As we learned earlier, not every salt and pepper diamond will have that inky, metallic diamond look, making galaxy diamonds even more uncommon.
Because of their rarity, many people assume that galaxy diamonds are very expensive. In reality, many galaxy diamonds are more affordable than traditional white diamonds. That’s because galaxy diamonds remain relatively unknown, making the overall demand pretty low.
However, the popularity of galaxy salt and pepper rings is growing. Now is a great time to invest in one of these alternative rings before they appreciate.
Are galaxy diamonds as good as white diamonds?
Any diamond you fall in love with is just as “good” (if not better) than any other diamond.
To some, galaxy diamonds come with more character than a highly sought flawless white diamond. In many ways, these diamonds are even better than white diamonds because they offer a modern take on the traditional engagement ring.
However, salt and pepper galaxy diamonds are filled with inclusions, which technically makes them weaker than a clear white diamond. That said, galaxy diamonds are still much stronger than your strongest gemstones.
When you buy a galaxy engagement ring (or any diamond ring), work with a jeweler who is reputable and will provide the highest quality diamonds and rings. Additionally, always insure the ring to cover accidents like theft, loss, scratches, or breaks.
Remember, the allure of a galaxy diamond ring lies in its ability to showcase the connection between the wearer and their partner. When you slip one of these celestial rocks onto your partner's finger, you're not just exchanging a ring; you're presenting them with a symbol of the bond you share.
In short, it's an embodiment of the love that brought you together.
Where to buy galaxy diamonds
Salt and pepper galaxy diamonds are becoming quite common on sites like Etsy and other online marketplaces. But unless you can confirm the most important criteria (see below), there are a lot of problems with buying a galaxy diamond from a non-reputable source.
Criteria # 1 - The seller is a GIA-certified gemologist
The Gemological Institute of America (or GIA) is a non-profit institute focused on gemology education and research. A GIA-certified gemologist has gone through extensive full-time study and hands-on training. They can offer an expert perspective on any questions you have.
Criteria # 2 - The ring comes with a guarantee
We don’t mean “guarantee” in the traditional sense, but the seller should make you feel confident in your purchase. For example, we always recommend buying a galaxy ring from someone who can provide ring appraisals, complimentary resizing, and lifetime care. Additionally, choose a seller who has credibility.
Look for great reviews, information about how long the jeweler has been in business and active social media accounts.
Criteria # 3 - The galaxy diamond is ethically sourced
One of the most critical aspects of buying a galaxy diamond ring is ensuring that the diamonds are ethically sourced. This means they’re obtained through UN-approved distribution channels which adhere to the Kimberly Process (KP) Certification standards (conflict-free) and don’t contribute to environmental harm.
By choosing ethically sourced diamonds, you can celebrate your love knowing that your ring has made a positive impact on the world.
Gray diamond, salt and pepper diamond, or galaxy diamond? Which should you choose?
With gray, salt and pepper, and galaxy rings all being similar, how do you choose which style is right for you? And from there, still, more decisions to make:
- Which specific diamond is your favorite?
- Do you want a designer or custom-made ring?
- What ring setting and cut do you want?
- One ring or stackable rings?
It seems like a lot to figure out and answer (and in a way, it is!). But when you work with a reputable jeweler like Malka Diamonds, we’ll walk you through the whole process, making it easy and enjoyable.
Often, the best way to know which ring is right for you is to see, touch, and try them on in person. The saying is true — when you know, you know!
Find your perfect engagement ring
What’s it like shopping for a galaxy diamond at Malka Diamonds? We’re named one of the coolest jewelry stores in the US for a reason — we offer a relaxed, personalized, and successful shopping experience to our customers.
At Malka Diamonds, you’ll find:
- Third-generation diamond experts
- Master craftsman jewelers who specialize in creating custom non-traditional rings
- On-staff GIA-certified gemologists
- A carefully curated collection of high-quality, sustainable galaxy rings (and more)
- Rings that always include appraisals, complimentary resizing, and lifetime care
We’d love to meet you and help you find the perfect ring. Contact us to get started. Prefer to browse online? Shop our online collection!