Diamonds in black! This might seem an incredulous proposition to many but yes, black diamonds have made their foray into the capital city through an exhibition-cum- sale organised by Ratnaloka, the diamond sub-brand of Bhima Jewellery.
Natural colouring
A trendsetter, black diamond jewellery has a distinctive allure. The special collection, introduced for the first time in a traditional market like Kerala, features contemporary designs in which the diamonds are ‘invisibly' set.
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Says Suhas Rao, managing director, Bhima Jewellery, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary: “Our customers come to us asking for something new every time. The black diamond collection is a ‘statement by itself.'”
Adding to the unique value of the black diamonds is that the colouring is natural. Explains Suhas: “Diamonds are basically carbon stones. Diamonds in black, pink or the colour of champagne are those that have a higher proportion of carbon in them. While it is possible to vary the colours of synthetic stones through heating, no such artificiality can be induced in diamonds.”
While the collection features rings, earrings and pendants set in 18 carat gold, fancy rings are the most popular amongst customers in this limited edition sale that is on till the January 26. The prices of these exquisite pieces of craft depends on the size of the stones and the way they are set.
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Explains Sanoj P.V, sales executive: “The reflection of the stones in a closely set design is higher, resulting in a higher price.” One may own a black diamond ring by shelling out anywhere between Rs.15,000 to Rs. 20,000. The price of a set comprising a pendant and earrings ranges between Rs. 45,000 and Rs. 2.5 lakh. A black diamond bangle can be bought for roughly Rs. 65,000. It is not all about choosing from the collection on display as the store offers the option of getting a piece custom-made. The facility for make-to-order extends beyond this sale, which has met with “tremendous” response.
Says Suhas: “From being a gold market 10 years ago, those getting married are now investing 10 per cent of the total purchase on diamonds.”
A certificate of authenticity in the form of a Diamond Card accompanies every purchase made from the jewellers.
Says Suhas: “Each and every piece is 100 per cent certified by the IGI (International Gemological Institute), SGL (Solitaire Gemological Laboratories) and the GIA (Gemological Institute of America).”
Ratnaloka also has a collection of white diamond jewellery in both traditional and contemporary designs.