Melee Diamonds: A Guide In 2021
Not all diamonds are created equal, and they come in all shapes and sizes. While they hold less value, smaller diamonds often provide an essential aesthetic advantage when making jewelry. These smaller stones are called Melee diamonds.
These smaller diamonds draw the eye to a larger stone, whether creating a unique neckless or a glorious ring. It is an authentic piece of art.
What Are Melee Diamonds?
Melee diamonds are small diamonds used to make jewelry. These diamonds are regularly used to compliment and accentuate the primary, larger diamond. Think of them as decorations for the main event. Melee diamonds are commonly used in a halo, pavé, or channel setting.
Melee Diamond Sizes
This type of diamond is categorized by and given a particular carat by weight. With melee diamonds being much smaller than other diamonds, some standard weights range from 0.07 to 0.15ct. 2.6mm - 3.5mm diameter, in size. Coarse melee can be approximately 3.2mm to 3.5mm in diameter.
Single cut v full cut
The majority of melee diamonds are full cut, and it is infrequent to see a single cut.
Full cut
These are cut in a similar way to larger diamonds. The final product will have 57-58 facets and looks almost identical in shape to centre stones. These are the most common type of melee diamonds, and due to advancements in cutting technology, it is rare to see a different kind of melee diamond in jewelry.
Single cut
Here a simple cutting method is used and produces 17 facets—eight on the crown, eight on the pavilion, plus the table. Single cut melees do not produce the fire and sparkle that full cut diamonds have. This type of melee diamond is commonly used in watchmaking.
Types of jewelry that use Melee diamonds
Rings
Earrings
Necklaces
Bracelet
Bridal designs
Custom jewelry
What To Look Out for When Purchasing Melee Diamonds
Unlike larger diamonds, Melee diamonds are not subjected to the same grading standard. The quality often lies with the word of the company selling the stones. Unfortunately, many jewelers make false claims and try to deceive shoppers. Some things you should consider are:
Shop with reputable vendors
Make sure the melee diamonds don't overshadow the centre stone
Make sure the eye is drawn to the larger diamond
With many components, the ring may need regular maintenance – something to consider when shopping.
What is the price?
Melee diamonds are not usually sold individually, and wholesale providers will sell these in parcels. An average grade melee can cost between $300-$400 per carat, while high-grade options are closer to $1000 per carat. The price is calculated by the total carat weight of the parcel plus the clarity, colour, cut and sieve size that you are willing to purchase.
M.Tarun Diamonds
Sourcing and polishing high-quality diamonds have been our specialty since 1989. We only produce high-grade melee diamonds and ensure that they complement larger stones for an exquisite piece of jewelry.
Producing excellent cut diamonds isn't simply what we do; it's what we live for. If you want consistent supply, transparency, and a specific team of experts, please get in touch with us today.
