Champagne Diamonds
Where they're mined
Brown diamonds are the most common coloured diamonds, and are mined everywhere that white diamonds are found. The names 'Champagne' and 'Cognac' were coined by the Argyle Diamond Mine in the 1980's, which produced a high number of brown diamonds, and this dramatically increased their popularity within the jewellery industry.
Grading System
While its other qualities, such as carat, cut and clarity, follow the traditional grading system used for white diamonds, champagne diamonds have their own unique grading system. This uses the letter C to indicate that it is a champagne stone, followed by a number 1-7, which indicates the intensity of colour, with a C1 stone having the lightest shade, and a C7 the darkest.
Colours
Champagne diamonds range in colour from an extremely pale, buttery tone through to a deep, rich brown colour. They can also exhibit undertones of yellow or orange.
Certification
Many champagne diamonds are sold uncertified, though some can be sold with GIA certificates. If a champagne diamond comes from the Argyle diamond mine or a CanadaMark™ diamond mine then it will be accompanied by a branded certificate of authenticity.
Value
The value of a champagne diamond is determined by its size, colour and overall quality, with certified and known origin stones having a higher value than uncertified stones. As they are a more common colour, they are more affordable than a white diamond of equivalent size and quality.
