Salt and pepper diamondsTL;DR
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Yes, they’re real natural diamonds
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Their galaxy look comes from inclusions
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More affordable than white diamonds
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Ethical because they reduce waste
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Durable if inclusions aren’t surface-reaching
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No GIA clarity grading
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Every stone is one-of-a-kind
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Salt and pepper diamonds are the rebels of the diamond world — imperfect on purpose, wildly individual, and completely unlike the classic, ultra-clear white diamonds most people grew up with. And that’s exactly why the world has fallen in love with them.
This guide breaks everything down, including:
- What are salt and pepper diamonds?
- How are salt and pepper diamonds formed?
- Salt and pepper diamonds color chart
- Why we love salt and pepper diamonds
- How to choose a salt and pepper diamond - color, inclusions, cut, and shape
- All your salt and pepper diamond questions answered
If you’re already browsing:
→ Shop loose salt & pepper diamonds
→ Get inspired in our Custom Gallery
WHAT ARE SALT AND PEPPER DIAMONDS?
Salt and pepper diamonds are simply highly included natural diamonds — meaning they hold far more visible white (“salt”) and black (“pepper”) inclusions than traditional white diamonds. If you tried to fit them into the GIA clarity scale, they’d land around I2–I3, but here’s the twist: the GIA system was never designed for gems where the inclusions are the aesthetic.
With white diamonds, fewer inclusions = “better.” With salt and pepper diamonds, the inclusions are the whole story — the mood, the personality, the cosmic drama inside the stone. You’re not grading imperfections; you’re choosing the galaxy that speaks to you.
The nickname comes from that mix of bright and dark inclusions that reads like night-sky energy: stars, nebulae, snowy flurries, deep-space shadows — all swirling inside one diamond.
And yes, they’re absolutely real diamonds — just the diamonds Mother Earth decorated with extra character.
How are salt and pepper diamonds formed?
Like all diamonds, salt and pepper diamonds formed one to three billion years ago under massive heat and pressure deep within the earth. During that process, minerals like carbon, graphite, magnetite, or hematite became trapped inside the crystal — creating the inclusions that now define their signature look.
When diamonds travel up to the earth’s surface through volcanic activity, their inclusions remain sealed inside. Each inclusion is a timestamp — a little record of the stone’s life story.
salt and pepper diamond colors
Salt and pepper diamonds aren’t just grey — they run a spectrum.
Icy White (Mostly Salt)
Bright, dreamy, luminous. Heavy on white inclusions, giving that frosty, ethereal glow.
Mixed Grey (Salt + Pepper Blend)
A perfectly balanced stormy grey — speckled, dimensional, and endlessly interesting.
Mostly Pepper
Dark, dramatic, mysterious. Inclusions cluster to create smoky or near-black tones with flashes of starlight.
Every stone sits somewhere on this spectrum. No two are alike.
Why we love salt and pepper diamonds
DEPTH OVER SHINE
Unlike the common white diamond, a salt and pepper diamond isn’t assessed solely on its shine. Their appeal lies in their depth – they’re more mysterious, enigmatic, and almost cosmic. They evolve the more you look at them, and are distinctive from every angle.
A white diamond pushes light outward. A salt and pepper diamond pulls you in. Instead of blinding sparkle, you get dimensional, evolving, almost celestial character.
salt and Pepper Diamonds are WILD ANd UNTREATED
Most diamonds contain traces of graphite, hematite, and magnetite in varying quantities. These mineral deposits are the source of any inclusions or blemishes in a diamond.
Traditional white diamonds are often treated to remove these inclusions, to create that ‘perfect’ white appearance. Salt and Pepper diamonds however, are left wild. The ‘birthmarks’ throughout the stone are celebrated as the one-of-a-kind patterns that mark that stone’s unique history and natural composition.
It’s fascinating to us, we love seeing the life path in every stone. Each diamond tells a story of the earth – of evolution and transformation. It’s magical to see this variation in every stone.
Salt and Pepper DIamonds are EARTH-FRIENDLY
When sourcing clear white diamonds, mining companies only use a very small percentage of the diamonds they find, discarding the rest as waste or for industrial purposes.
In the past, salt and pepper diamonds would have been among these discarded stones. Now, these alternative diamonds are being celebrated instead of discarded. This means all material is used - no more waste.
This is so important to us – sustainability means reducing waste and using all the precious resources we extract from the earth.
Salt and Pepper Diamonds are ACCESSIBLE
Salt and pepper diamonds are typically more affordable than white diamonds, opening the door for unique, independent designers — and letting you choose a bigger, more expressive stone.
NO TWO SALT AND PEPPER DIAMONDS ARE ALIKE
Every salt and pepper diamond has a completely unique and one-of-a-kind pattern - you’ll never find two stones the same.
As people, we’re all aligned in our humanness, but distinctive in our own, undeniable way. In the same way, salt and pepper stones are all diamonds, yet every one has its own energy, look, and history.
It’s such a fun experience finding a stone and a ring that truly represents you, in all your perfect imperfection.
SALT AND PEPPERS ARE TRULY UNIQUE
Not only is every stone unique from each other, salt and pepper stones are uncommon as a whole. They’re a modern deviation from the mass-produced, standardized styles seen in the showcases of most jewelry stores. An evolution of our perception of beauty and style.
It’s a beautiful thing to see creativity rising, conformity disappearing, and more people celebrating innovation and diversity. To move beyond what’s expected and what’s always been done, and find beauty and value in the unexpected.
SALT AND PEPPER DIAMONDS ARE ETHICALLY SOURCED
All Gem Breakfast designers and designs are thoroughly vetted and use conflict-free diamonds. We have very personal relationships with all our suppliers and only work with people of the upmost ethics and quality. This applies to Salt and Pepper diamonds and every other gem we use.
How to choose your salt and pepper diamond
Choosing a salt and pepper diamond is exciting — every stone feels like its own tiny universe. Here’s how to start narrowing down your favorites:
START WITH SHAPE
Do you gravitate toward pears, ovals, kites, hexagons, shields, or rounds?
Salt and pepper diamonds come in every shape — often shapes that aren’t possible in traditional diamonds.
The stone’s shape will dictate the ring’s overall design, so if you’re going custom, this is a great place to start to bring your vision to life.
Browse through our selection of salt and pepper diamond rings to get an idea of which shape speaks loudest to you.
CURATE BY CUT
As with traditional white diamonds, the two most popular s & p cuts are brilliant cut and rose cut. What’s the difference?
Brilliant Cut
- Maximizes sparkle
- Facets reflect light outward
- More traditional look
Rose Cut
- Flat bottom, domed top
- Larger appearance per carat
- Shows inclusions beautifully
- Gives that candlelit, vintage, moody glow
Salt and pepper engagement ring
Rose cuts are especially popular for salt and pepper diamonds because they highlight the galaxy-like patterns inside the stone.
Rose cut diamonds can also be cut into almost any shape – even completely irregular shapes. So, if you’re looking for a super unique stone shape, rose cut may be the answer!
Also, rose cut diamonds look larger than brilliant cuts with the same carat weight. Without the pointed bottom, all the carat weight ends up in the top face of the diamond, resulting in larger looking stone. Who can resist that!
PONDER ON GOLD COLOR
Do you love the rosé hue of rose gold, the sunlit gleam of yellow gold, the icy magic of white gold, or the buttery glimmer of Peach Gold?
The metal changes everything:
- Rose gold —warm, romantic, softens dark inclusions
- Yellow gold —sunlit and glowing, enhances warmth
- White gold —modern and crisp, amplifies contrast
- Peach Gold —our chef’s kiss signature hue, especially magical with grey tones
Read our ‘Ultimate Guide to Gold & Precious Metals’for more information on each option.
SALT, PEPPER, OR BOTH?
Most people tend to fall in three salt and pepper camps
- Mostly Pepper: dark, cosmic, starry-night drama
- Balanced Grey: stormy, moody, multifaceted
- Icy White: bright, ethereal, frosty, celestial
There’s no right choice — only what feels like you.
Take a browse through our salt and pepper engagement rings and loose salt and pepper diamonds to see which end of the spectrum you gravitate towards.
What if you want an exact replica of a stone you’ve seen that’s sold?
We get this question a lot! Unfortunately, (and also fortunately) every salt and pepper diamond has a unique, nature-created pattern of inclusions that will never be identically repeated. We can, however, scour the Earth to find you a stone that matches your star-crossed stone as closely as possible – one that you love just as much, or hopefully more!
WHERE TO BUY SALT AND PEPPER DIAMONDS?
You can buy loose salt and pepper diamonds or a one-of-a-kind salt and pepper diamond ring from Gem Breakfast online here. Or reach out to our team of chefs to source the perfect salt and pepper diamonds for you!
A DASH OF SALT AND A DOSE OF PEPPER
Right in the middle of the spectrum, these grey toned diamonds can vary massively in terms of their particular night sky constellation pattern. Usually you'll find a mix of salt and pepper inclusions for a multifaceted, light-catching, endlessly mesmerizing galaxy of stars with so much delicious depth.
PURELY PEPPER
The darkest salt and peppers range from dark smoky grey to basically black - some can even be mistaken for a solid grey or black diamond. They're predominantly pepper and feel dramatic, glamorous, and oh-so enigmatic. Like an inky black night with glimpses of starlight in an otherwise midnight sky.
CUSTOM VS READY-TO-SHIP SALT AND PEPPER DIAMOND rings
Since almost every Gem Breakfast ring is a one-of-a-kind creation, you’ll be getting a completely original piece whether you choose custom or already designed. The only choice is whether you find that perfect match online, or have a vision that’s not yet been realized.
If you’re set on Salt and Pepper, start by browsing the salt and pepper diamond engagement rings on our site. If you find a ring that stirs up your soul, you may have to look no further. If you’re torn, and you like the setting of one ring, and the stone on another, a custom design may be just the ticket for you!
Whether you already have a design in mind or just a hazy idea of what you might love, chat with usand we’ll work with you to design and create a unique yet classic engagement ring that represents you through and through.
SALT AND PEPPER DIAMOND FAQ
Are salt and pepper diamonds real diamonds?
Yes — 100% real, natural diamonds. They’re formed the same way as white diamonds; they just contain more visible inclusions (the “salt” and the “pepper”) that give them their cosmic look.
DO SALT AND PEPPER DIAMONDS BREAK EASILY?
Not inherently. A well-cut salt and pepper diamond is just as durable as a white diamond.
The only thing to watch for is surface-reaching inclusions — inclusions that extend to the outside of the stone. These can appear in both white diamonds and salt and peppers.
If that inclusion sits somewhere protected (like the base or under a prong), durability isn’t affected. If it sits on an exposed edge, it may need extra care.
Our chefs (and all Made by Gem Breakfast jewelers) inspect every stone under extreme magnification so you only receive diamonds that are structurally sound, beautiful, and ready for daily wear.
BUT AREN’t white diamonds unbreakable?
Nope — that’s a myth. Diamonds are the hardest gemstone, but they can still chip or crack if hit just right.
Salt and pepper diamonds aren’t more fragile by default — they simply need the same thoughtful care as any treasured gem.
WHERE DO SALT AND PEPPER DIAMONDS COME FROM?
We source the bulk of our salt and pepper stones from Misfit Diamonds! They're an original partner of Gem Breakfast and source all their gemstones through UN approved Kimberly Process channels. Additionally, they handpick every stone to ensure the highest quality. You can browse all their loose salt and pepper diamonds on our website to see their vast array of inventory. For more on Misfit Diamonds and their founder Ashkan Asgari, read our blog.
Didn't find something you love in stock? We have a whole network of diamond dealers that we can work with to source your perfect stone!
Do salt and pepper diamonds get a GIA report?
No. The GIA doesn’t grade salt and pepper diamonds because their clarity scale isn’t designed for stones where inclusions create the beauty.
Instead of chasing grades, you get to choose based on vibe, pattern, tone, and the art inside the stone.
Are salt and pepper diamonds more affordable?
Yes — generally far more affordable than traditional white diamonds.
And as natural diamonds (of all varieties) grow more desirable in a lab-grown world, salt and pepper diamonds continue to rise in value and demand.
Emerald cut salt and pepper diamond ring
Do salt and pepper diamonds hold their value?
While they’re newer to the mainstream market, demand has climbed steadily. As natural diamonds become more coveted compared to lab-grown, salt and pepper diamonds have been increasing in value.
They’re still a more accessible price point — but they’re trending upward year over year.
WHAT'S THE SPIRITUAL MEANING OF SALT AND PEPPER DIAMONDS?
Salt and pepper diamonds symbolize the imperfection and unpredictability in life and relationships and the beauty one can find in imperfection. Like all diamonds, salt and pepper diamonds align with the crown chakra and help us connect with our intuition and walk our highest path.
Do salt and pepper diamonds sparkle?
Yes — but not in a white-diamond way. They sparkle through contrast: the dance between light and dark inclusions creates a starry-night shimmer that shifts in every light. It’s moodier, deeper, and more cosmic than classic diamond brilliance.
ARE SALT AND PEPPER DIAMONDS MORE ETHICAL?
Salt and pepper diamonds make the diamond industry as a whole more sustinable as we are using stones that were previously discarded. In terms of the ethics of salt and pepper diamonds, (as with all diamonds and gemstones) that comes down to the sourcing practices behind that particular stone - you need to ask questions like:
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Is this stone certified through the Kimberley Process?
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Does the mine use environmentally responsible mining techniques? Do they/will they reclaim the land once mining is finished?
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Are the miners paid fairly, treated ethically, and working in a safe environment?
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Who cut this diamond? Were they paid fairly and treated ethically?
Read our blog for more on ethically sourced and conflict free diamonds.
ARE ROSE CUT SALT AND PEPPER DIAMONDS A THING?
Definitely! Because of their flat base and domed top, rose cuts show off the depth, detail, and one-of-a-kind saltiness (or pepperiness) of a salt and pepper stone amazingly. Unlike the blinding sparkle of a brilliant cut diamond, rose cuts allow light to move through the stone, resulting in a more lustrous, candlelit glow that adds a certain magic to a salt and pepper diamond.
What causes the salt-and-pepper look?
A high concentration of natural inclusions — black carbon spots, white mineral clouds, feathers, tiny fractures, or specks of graphite or hematite frozen inside the diamond as it formed.
All completely natural. All part of the story.
Are salt and pepper diamonds “low quality”?
Through the traditional clarity lens: yes (they’d sit around I2–I3). Through the modern, artistic lens: absolutely not.
The industry is finally recognizing that “perfect” doesn’t always mean “beautiful.” These diamonds celebrate depth, character, and cosmic personality — a vibe you can’t fake.
What is the clarity of a salt and pepper diamond?
If you used the GIA clarity scale, they’d fall around I2–I3 — but they’re not graded and shouldn’t be compared to white diamonds. The inclusions are the aesthetic.
What’s the best cut for a salt and pepper diamond?
Salt and pepper diamonds look incredible in rose cuts. The domed top + large facets reveal the galaxy inside the stone and give a candlelit, moody glow.
Brilliant cuts work too — they just emphasize sparkle over cosmic depth.
Are rose-cut salt and pepper diamonds a thing?
Very much a thing — and a Gem Breakfast favorite. Rose cuts show off every swirl, cloud, and constellation in a way no other cut can.
What are the downsides of salt and pepper diamonds?
Just two worth noting:
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Less traditional sparkle than a white diamond
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Possible surface-reaching inclusions, depending on the stone
Both are easy to navigate when you work with a jeweler who knows how to source the good stuff (hi, that’s us!)
Where can I buy a salt and pepper diamond or engagement ring?
Right here at Gem Breakfast — browse our
→ Loose Salt & Pepper Diamonds
Want something custom? Our chefs can source the perfect galaxy and craft the dreamiest ring around it.
→ Start a Custom Ring