Salt and Pepper Diamonds: A Unique Choice for Custom Jewelry

Discover what makes salt and pepper diamonds different and why they might be the perfect choice for your custom jewelry design.

What is a Salt & Pepper Diamond?

A salt and pepper diamond is really just a diamond that has a lot of inclusions, which are tiny flaws or imperfections inside the stone. These inclusions can be black, white, or gray, giving the diamond a speckled appearance that resembles salt and pepper, a storm caught in time, or even the cosmic night sky.


Salt and pepper diamonds are still diamonds, which means they are a 10 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness. They are sometimes referred to as galaxy diamonds, carbonado diamonds, or grey diamonds, and they can be a stunning centerpiece for your custom jewelry.



Why Choose It for Your Custom Design?


  • Salt and pepper diamonds are unique and one-of-a-kind. Salt and pepper diamonds have a lot of character and charm, as they reflect the light in different ways depending on the angle and the setting. No two salt and pepper diamonds are exactly alike, so you can be sure that your custom jewelry will stand out from the crowd.
  • They are very versatile. They come in a variety of unique shapes (such as a geometric rose cut, shield, and kite), unique colors (including icy white, champagne, and grey), and various sizes. You can easily find one that suits your style and preference by choosing how much "pepper" you want in your diamond - from a subtle sprinkle to a bold contrast.
  • Salt and pepper diamonds are affordable and ethical. These stones are much less expensive than standard diamonds. This means that they are also more ethical, as they are less likely to be involved in conflict or exploitation. Salt and pepper diamonds require less mining and processing, so they are more eco-friendly.

What to Consider When Purchasing Salt And Pepper Diamonds


  • The cut of a salt and pepper diamond affects how it sparkles and fits in your custom jewelry. You can choose from a variety of cuts, such as round, oval, pear, cushion, emerald, marquis, or rose (rose cut is a vintage style with a flat bottom and a domed top). A uniquely cut salt and pepper diamond can make your jewelry really stand out.
  • You can find salt and pepper diamonds that are mostly clear, mostly black, or somewhere in between. You can also find salt and pepper diamonds that have hints of other colors, such as brown, yellow, pink, or blue. The color of a salt and pepper diamond depends on the amount and distribution of the inclusions. 
  • Some salt and pepper diamonds have more inclusions than others, which can affect their transparency and brilliance. You can choose a salt and pepper diamond that has a high clarity, which means that the inclusions are small and scattered, or a low clarity, which means that the inclusions are large and clustered.
  • Salt and pepper diamonds tend to be heavier than other diamonds, as they have more density and mass. You can choose a salt and pepper diamond that has a high carat, which means that it is large and impressive, or a low carat, which means that it is small and delicate.

Interesting Facts

  • Salt and pepper diamonds were once considered worthless and undesirable, as they did not meet the diamond industry standards. In recent years, salt and pepper diamonds have gained popularity and appreciation, as more people are looking for alternative and unconventional options for their jewelry.
  • Salt and pepper diamonds can represent the balance and harmony of opposites, reminding us that beauty can be found even in imperfection. Therefore, they also symbolize the beauty and strength of imperfection, as they embrace their flaws and uniqueness.
  • Salt and pepper diamonds are often associated with creativity, individuality, and authenticity.
A radiant emerald green gemstone with a complex cut, placed against a light background. The gemstone exhibits multiple facets that reflect light, creating depth and a sparkling effect. Its color transitions from deep green at the edges to lighter green towards the center, with a distinct, artistic shadow cast on the surface below it.

Our Recommendation for Salt and Pepper Diamonds in Custom Jewelry Designs


Unconventional and Affordable

  • Salt and pepper diamonds defy conventional norms. Their speckled appearance are perfect for someone whose style is different, edgy, and non-traditional. Because of their natural inclusions, each one is truly one-of-a-kind and stunning. Cuts like rose, hexagon, kite, shield, half-moon, trapezoid, lozenge, and even coffin showcase their individuality.
  • Compared to flawless, colorless diamonds, salt and pepper diamonds are far more affordable. This makes them an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want a stunning gemstone.

Not for the "Traditional" Style

If you’re looking for a flawless, eye-clean diamond, salt and pepper diamonds may not be your best choice. Their speckled appearance, caused by the black or gray inclusions (the “pepper”), adds character but may not align with the desire for pristine clarity.


We love the edgy look of salt and pepper diamonds that defy tradition. Each is unique and has its own character and imperfections, making for a truly custom creation. 


If salt and pepper diamonds aren't quite right for you, we can recommend a few adjacent gemstones:

  • Natural colorless diamonds are known for their brilliance, fire, and rarity. These stones are a traditional choice for jewelry formed deep within the Earth's mantle over millions of years.
  • Lab-created diamonds offer an affordable alternative to natural diamonds (they have the same look but are budget-friendly).
  • Black diamonds contain numerous inclusions, giving them a strikingly dark color and cut-marble look.
  • Grey spinel offers exquisite brilliance and shine in a steely grey and has a cleaner look.

The Kris Averi Promise


We welcome you just as you are, in your authenticity and unique expression of love. 


We believe love knows no bounds, limitations, or exceptions. It is all inclusive, and so are we. Here at Kris Averi, we are committed to standing behind all love, always.


We look forward to helping you make your dreams come true.

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