Diamond solitaire engagement rings are classic and timeless. However, many couples are looking for something different than the average Kay Jewelry Store solitaire. A diamond that is finding its way into the limelight is the (drumroll please...) salt and pepper diamond! ✨

The term "salt and pepper" refers to the gorgeous inclusions inside of the diamond which can give it a bit of a galaxy look with black or white inclusions. Sometimes, the inclusions even have red or gray speckles or streaks- stunning! Inclusions give the salt and pepper diamond its unique character.

Most all diamonds have some type of inclusions but they’re often small and cannot be seen with the naked eye. However with salt and pepper diamonds, the inclusions are large and visible. These visible inclusions give the diamonds a unique and beautiful appearance, almost like a mini masterpiece painting inside of each diamond.

From a quick browse through our create your own engagement ring section, you will notice that every salt and pepper diamond is completely unique and not one is the same!

Typically a Rose Cut!

Salt and pepper diamonds are typically rose cut. Rose cut is a style of faceting (cutting) where the diamond is flat on its back and all of the facets (cuts) are on the top of the diamond. This faceting makes salt and pepper diamonds slightly domed and very sparkly. It also creates the opportunity for very low profile settings which many of our customers prefer.

Very Durable! 

Salt and pepper diamonds have the durability of a traditional brilliant cut white diamond: they are a 10 on the hardness scale. With her durability and her capability to be set much lower than a traditional brilliant cut on a low profile setting, the salt and pepper diamond is perfect for the adventurous, wild at heart creative and unique types!

Wise Investment! 

For the budget conscious couple, you can get a far larger salt and pepper diamond for your budget than you could a flawless white diamond. 

Salt and pepper diamonds have become increasingly popular for engagement rings and for everyday stacking rings. They look amazing set as a solitaire in yellow gold, white gold or rose gold. Also, pairing them with tiny white diamond accents is a beautiful way to create contrast with your salt and pepper diamond engagement ring. You can see many examples of this on our salt and pepper diamond page or engagement ring sets.

We love salt and pepper diamonds here at Melissa Tyson Designs and we think that you will too as each diamond as unique as your love!