Where are Blue Diamonds Found?
Blue diamonds are among the world’s most breathtaking and mysterious gems—rare, alluring, and utterly unforgettable. At Greis Jewelers, we believe that understanding the beauty of a diamond begins with understanding its origin, and blue diamonds are no exception. These extraordinary stones captivate collectors and designers alike for their rich color, natural rarity, and timeless elegance.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what defines a blue diamond, the characteristics that set it apart, where these gems are found, and why they continue to be treasured as some of the most sought-after diamonds in the world.
What Is a Blue Diamond?
Blue diamonds are natural diamonds colored by trace amounts of boron that become trapped in the carbon structure during formation deep within the earth’s mantle. This rare inclusion causes the diamond to absorb red, yellow, and green light, giving it a range of blue shades, from soft sky blue to deep navy.
Unlike treated or synthetic stones, natural blue diamonds form over millions of years under extreme pressure and heat, and their color is not the result of artificial enhancement. Each one is a Type IIb diamond, known for exceptional clarity and conductivity—unique traits that elevate their appeal in high jewelry.
Key Characteristics of Blue Diamonds
A blue diamond is not only visually stunning—it is geologically extraordinary. Here’s what distinguishes it:
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Color Range: From faint blue to vivid blue, with Fancy Vivid Blue being the most prized grade
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Clarity: Often high, due to the purity of the carbon structure
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Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale, the same as all diamonds
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Conductivity: Blue diamonds are semiconductive, unlike most diamonds
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Uniqueness: No two blue diamonds are ever the same in hue or saturation
Their rarity and chemical uniqueness make them ideal for collectors and those seeking exclusive custom engagement rings or statement jewelry.
Explore our Certified Loose Diamonds with GIA Reports to shop with confidence and distinction.
How Rare Are Blue Diamonds?
Exceptionally rare. Blue diamonds make up less than 0.1% of all diamonds mined worldwide. Their unique formation conditions and scarcity in nature make them one of the most valuable colored diamonds on the market.
Only a handful of mines in the world are known to produce them, and even then, the output is incredibly limited. High-quality stones—especially those over 1 carat with strong color saturation—are often sold at auction or through luxury jewelers with access to exclusive sourcing channels.
Where Are Blue Diamonds Mined?
Blue diamonds are found in only a few locations around the world. Each source adds to the gem’s story, making provenance a key element in its value and appeal.
1. Cullinan Mine, South Africa
The Cullinan Mine (formerly Premier Mine) is the world’s most prominent source of natural blue diamonds.
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Known for producing: Deep and vivid blue diamonds
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Famous finds: The Blue Moon of Josephine and the Cullinan Dream
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Why it matters: This is where the majority of high-value natural blue diamonds originate today
2. Golconda Mines, India (Historic)
Though no longer active, the legendary Golconda region is credited with producing some of history’s most iconic blue diamonds, including:
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The Hope Diamond
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The Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond
These stones are renowned for their antique cuts, exceptional clarity, and unmatched historical value.
3. Argyle Mine, Australia
Mostly known for pink diamonds, the Argyle Mine also produced very rare blue diamonds, which are now even more coveted since the mine’s closure in 2020.
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Noted for: Light blue and gray-blue stones
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Collectible: Supply is extremely limited, increasing demand for existing stones on the market
4. Brazil and Other Sources
Small-scale production has been reported in:
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Brazil
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Indonesia
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Botswana
However, these sites yield blue diamonds sporadically and in small quantities.
Looking to create a timeless design with a rare blue stone? Schedule an appointment with one of our Custom Design specialists.
What About Lab-Grown Blue Diamonds?
Lab-grown blue diamonds are created using advanced technology that introduces boron during the growth process. They share the same physical and chemical properties as natural blue diamonds, though their origin is man-made.
These diamonds are more accessible in price and often used in custom pieces that require larger sizes or experimental design. At Greis Jewelers, we offer both natural and lab-grown diamonds, helping you choose what best suits your vision.
Browse our Lab-Grown Diamond Collection to explore modern beauty with exceptional value.
What Jewelry Styles Work Best with Blue Diamonds?
Because of their rarity and rich color, blue diamonds are often showcased in designs that emphasize their unique beauty:
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Halo Settings: Amplify the diamond’s brilliance with white diamond accents
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Three-Stone Rings: Pair with white or pink diamonds for contrast
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Solitaire Designs: Highlight the singular beauty of the stone
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Custom Pendants: For heirloom-quality centerpieces with emotional value
At Greis Jewelers, our master artisans can design and craft a custom engagement ring, pendant, or bracelet that puts your blue diamond in the spotlight.
Looking to design your own blue diamond masterpiece? Discover our Custom Jewelry Design Services.
Final Thoughts: The Allure of Origin
So—where are blue diamonds found? From the deep mines of South Africa to historic regions in India, these gems carry more than color—they carry stories, rarity, and remarkable value. Their origin shapes not only their worth but also their legacy.
At Greis Jewelers, we take pride in guiding you through every step of discovering, designing, or gifting with blue diamonds. Whether natural or lab-grown, we ensure each stone we offer is worthy of the moment it represents.
32940 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Call: (248) 855-1730