Updated as of June 2026
Black Diamond
An opaque black diamond valued for bold modern style and associated with strength, confidence, and protection.
Price range$200 to $3,000/ct
Hardness (Mohs)10
ColorsBlack
BirthstoneApril
AltGems Score How we score
7.8/10
Black Diamond pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent durability (Mohs 10) for everyday wear
- Rare and collectible
- A recognized birthstone (April)
Cons
- Commonly treated (irradiation or heat (most stones treated black))
- Premium per-carat cost for fine quality
Black Diamond is durable enough for engagement rings and daily-wear jewelry of every kind.
Explore Black Diamond
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestBlack Diamond jewelry
Black Diamond ringsBlack Diamond engagement ringsBlack Diamond necklacesBlack Diamond pendantsBlack Diamond earringsBlack Diamond bracelets
Black Diamond by cut
Round Black DiamondOval Black DiamondEmerald Cut Black DiamondCushion Black DiamondPrincess Black DiamondPear Black DiamondAll cuts
Black Diamond ring styles
Black Diamond solitaire ringBlack Diamond halo ringBlack Diamond three stone ringBlack Diamond hidden halo ringBlack Diamond vintage and antique ringBlack Diamond bezel ringAll styles
Black Diamond by metal
Black Diamond in yellow goldBlack Diamond in white goldBlack Diamond in rose goldBlack Diamond in platinumBlack Diamond in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Overpaying at one retailer without comparing the same color and carat elsewhere.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Extremely hard. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for natural stones.
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Where to buy Black Diamond: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Black Diamond?
An opaque black diamond valued for bold modern style and associated with strength, confidence, and protection. It rates 10 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in black.
How much does Black Diamond cost?
Black Diamond typically runs about $200 to $3,000 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Black Diamond price guide for detail.
Is Black Diamond good for everyday jewelry?
Yes. At Mohs 10 it is durable enough for rings and daily wear with normal care.
What is the AltGems Score for Black Diamond?
Black Diamond earns an overall AltGems Score of 7.8 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Black Diamond?
Extremely hard. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for natural stones.