Yellow Diamonds: Redefining Luxury Jewellery
What do these three images have in common?
A clue: look closely at the diamonds.
Yellow diamonds have been a bubbling trend for years – from Audrey Hepburn’s 128.54-carat Tiffany Yellow Diamond necklace in the 1961 Breakfast at Tiffany’s promo photos, to Victoria Beckham’s emerald-cut yellow diamond engagement ring (just one from her extensive collection).
"We're witnessing a shift towards a more natural, organic aesthetic in jewellery design, and yellow diamonds – alongside champagne diamonds and chocolate diamonds – are leading the movement. Their raw beauty captures the imagination, and we’re seeing more and more yellow diamond engagement rings alongside other designs,” says Matthew Ely.
Matthew answers a few questions for us.
Are yellow diamonds natural?
“Yes, yellow diamonds are completely natural. Their beautiful hues come from trace amount of nitrogen, which is naturally incorporated into the diamond’s crystal lattice during formation. That subtle infusion of nitrogen absorbs blue light, resulting in the warm tones that make each yellow diamond unique.”
Are yellow diamonds real?
“Absolutely – yellow diamonds are genuine gemstones. Unlike lab-created alternatives or treated stones, their colour is achieved through a natural geological process. Their authenticity and rarity are what makes them so highly prized.”
How to spot a 'good' yellow diamond?
“Just like white diamonds, yellow diamonds are graded based on the ‘four Cs’ – colour, clarity, cut, and carat.
First:
Always hold the diamond up to a strong light source – watch how the light dances across the facets. A high-quality stone will show a vibrant, even saturation of colour from every angle.
Second:
Examine the diamond carefully for clarity; any cloudy inclusions or internal blemishes that can dull its natural glow.
Third:
The cut is absolutely critical. A well-cut diamond reflects light in a way that maximises its brilliance and deepens the colour.
Finally:
Consider the carat weight. It’s important, but it should never come at the expense of quality. Bigger doesn’t always mean better.
Most importantly, always insist on certification from a reputable lab, like the GIA, to confirm the diamond’s authenticity and quality.”
How to style a yellow diamond?
Yellow diamonds are incredibly versatile and can be styled in various ways. Here are just a few tips:
Mix Metals: Yellow diamonds look stunning in both yellow gold and contrasting metals like white gold and platinum. Mixing metals can add contrast and depth.
Layer Bracelets and Necklaces: Consider layering yellow diamond and white diamond tennis bracelets and necklaces, ideally set in contrasting metals. This creates a modern, dynamic look that plays with light and texture.
Vintage-inspired settings: Consider jewellery with antique settings or Art Deco influences that highlight the warmth of yellow diamonds.
Everyday elegance: The yellow diamond doesn’t always have to be the centrepiece. Incorporate smaller yellow diamonds into basic stackable rings, stud earrings, or delicate bracelets.
