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Natural fancy orange diamonds represent less than 1% of the total diamond production worldwide. These diamonds are a rare and highly desired subset of colored diamonds, known for their striking and vivid fiery hues. They are among the rarest of all colored diamonds, and can appear in a wide range of shades, with pure vivid orange grading being the most valuable.
Why are Orange Diamonds So Rare?
According to The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the presence of pure, unmodified orange diamonds in existence makes up 0.05% of all natural fancy color diamonds in the world. It is more common to find orange with a multitude of secondary hues but that makes them relatively inexpensive diamonds, also not the most desired combination. Not only do orange diamonds make up a small sect of fancy color diamonds but orange diamonds rarely ever surpass the 3 to 4 carat mark after being polished from rough.
Even in our 20+ years specializing in color diamonds, we have encountered no more than 10 pure orange diamonds larger than 1 carat. More frequently we have come across pure orange diamonds under 1 carat in size.
If that testament doesn’t break it down for how rare pure orange diamonds let's dive into the biggest orange diamonds in history.
Most Famous Orange Diamonds
The Pumpkin Diamond
Orange diamonds in general are often referred to as "pumpkin diamonds," and befittingly, one of the most famous orange diamonds, is called the Pumpkin Diamond!
Although the Pumpkin Diamond might appear relatively small when compared to other renowned diamonds, it is, in fact, one of the largest Fancy Vivid Orange diamond ever assessed by the GIA. What sets it apart from other orange diamonds is its unique combination of being lightly colored and exceptionally intense in hue. Originating from the Central African Republic, the Pumpkin Diamond was initially imported into South Africa for sale. It underwent cutting and polishing by the skilled artisan, William Goldberg, before being auctioned at Sotheby's. It was ultimately acquired by Ronald Winston from the House of Harry Winston for a sum of $1.3 million. Presently, its estimated value stands at $3 million!
The Orange Diamond
When the name of an orange diamond is famously "The Orange," it is clear that the diamond is remarkable enough not to need a flashy name.
The Orange is a 14.82 Carat Fancy Vivid Orange pear shape natural diamond, holding the world record for being the largest Fancy Vivid Orange in the world!
According to the GIA, “Strongly colored diamonds in the orange hue range rarely exceed three or four carats in size when polished. This diamond is almost four times larger than that size range. In GIA’s colored diamond grading system, as the color appearance of strongly colored diamonds transitions from orangey yellow to orange, the occurrence becomes progressively more rare—that is—the less yellow present the more rarely they occur.”
The Orange set another world record for the highest value per carat for a natural Fancy Vivid Orange, selling in 2013 for $35.5 million, averaging at right under $2.4 million per carat.
The Orange Diamond, Photo Courtesy of Christie's
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Whether you're a diamond collector or someone who simply appreciates the finest things in life, orange diamonds are a testament to the magic of nature and the world of high-end jewelry. If you're considering adding an orange diamond to your collection, it's essential to work with a reputable jeweler who can guide you through the selection process and help you discover the perfect orange diamond that suits your style and preferences.
Rare Colors Orange Diamonds
A Rare Colors Half Carat Natural Fancy Vivid Orange Pear Shape Diamond
Rare Colors 1 Carat Natural Fancy Intense Orange Pear Shape Diamond
Rare Colors 1 Carat Natural Fancy Intense Orange-Yellow Marquis Diamond
Rare Colors 1 Carat Natural Fancy Intense Yellow-Orange Pear Shape Diamond Ring
Rare Colors 1 Carat Natural Fancy Vivid Yellowish Orange Heart Shape Diamond Ring
Learn all about natural diamonds and the intricacies of their color, here at Rare Colors.
