Yellow Diamond Engagement Rings

Antique, new and vintage yellow diamond engagement rings, whose stones run the gamut from pastel to vibrant, may be the perfect choice for vivacious personalities as well as those attracted to something evoking sunshine, warmth, positivity — and an undeniable air of glamour and sophistication.

A leader in the colored diamond category, New York-based Scarselli Diamonds has access to some of the world’s most spectacular yellow gems. “The lowest color I would recommend is fancy light,” says managing partner Davide Scarselli, “but the price differential is such that it is more worthwhile to upgrade to a fancy yellow.”

A canary yellow diamond has a highly saturated hue, resulting from isolated nitrogen impurities, according to the GIA. “Champagne” is an unofficial term for brown diamonds with a secondary yellow cast. Cautions Scarselli, “Most often, champagne diamonds have a darker tone and a touch of brown and therefore are not highly attractive or rare.”

A yellow diamond weighing three carats or more is rare. In terms of shape, “radiant cuts show off the strongest color,” says Scarselli, adding that “shapes like round and emerald cuts show the least amount of color.”

High-quality natural yellow diamonds are rare — and expensive. Unlike the fast-fashion brands that quickly serve up look-alike gowns based on celebrity finery, even major jewelry houses cannot create a collection overnight. Gems have to be sourced, designs created and jewels manufactured. It also takes time for clients to budget for such a purchase. When people decide they are going to buy a piece with a gem like a yellow diamond, they often wait for a special occasion to make the acquisition.

Yellow diamonds have recently attracted fans on and off the red carpet, and there has also been an uptick in the sales of yellow diamond rings, likely intended to be engagement rings or, perhaps, anniversary presents. The choice of a diamond solitaire for an engagement ring is one of the few traditions that remain strong and steadfast in the world of jewelry etiquette.

Explore our buying guides for a close look at antique engagement rings, Art Deco engagement rings and vintage engagement rings, and find a range of antique, new and vintage yellow diamond engagement rings on 1stDibs.