When you think of that perfect forever ring, what do you picture? Is it bold, elegant, and totally one-of-a-kind? If so, prepare to fall head-over-heels in love with salt and pepper diamond engagement rings!
A rad, non-traditional alternative to classic diamonds, salt and pepper diamonds (also known as galaxy diamonds) are making a name for themselves in the engagement ring world. And it’s easy to see why!
We decided to make our obsession with this style official and create a complete salt and pepper diamond engagement ring guide. We talked to the experts at Kristin Coffin to get the low down on everything you need to know about these out-of-this-world diamonds — and we’ve also rounded up 30 of the most stunning styles to help you find your dream ring!!
Ready to put a ring on it?
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What is a salt and pepper diamond?
A salt and pepper diamond is a diamond with distinct inclusions that give it a speckled, galaxy-like look. They get their name from the combination of black and white flecks in the stone, which vary by darkness, pattern, and opacity.
While they probably don’t look like the diamonds you’re used to, salt and pepper diamonds are still genuine, naturally occurring diamonds. They used to be throw-away stones because of their “flaws” compared to completely clear diamonds. But in recent years, they’ve become hugely popular thanks to their perfectly imperfect look and one-of-a-kind style!
What does a salt and pepper diamond symbolize?
While salt and pepper diamonds don’t have any historic meaning, couples and designers are now drawn to them because of their individuality and uniqueness.
As Kristin Coffin says, “What I love most about salt and pepper diamonds is that each is entirely unique. You can always find two VS1/H clear white diamonds, but finding two of the exact same speckled salt and pepper diamonds is impossible. This makes each diamond one-of-a-kind!”
Because of their different inclusions, color variations, and rare patterns, salt and pepper diamond engagement rings are a gorgeous symbol of your unique love story — and the perfect way to celebrate your partner’s rad individuality!
They’re also a sweet reminder that something doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. (We’re not crying, you are!)
Are salt and pepper diamonds good for engagement rings?
One word: yes! Like clear diamonds, salt and pepper diamonds are a 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, which means they’re extremely durable and are perfect for everyday wear.
They’re also super versatile. Whether you’re looking for something classic and timeless or boho and distinct, you can find a salt and pepper diamond engagement ring that fits your style.
And because of their non-traditional, galaxy-like look, salt and pepper diamonds make great engagement rings for people who want to showcase their individuality and rock a ring that stands out.
Did we mention that they’re also more eco-friendly than traditional mined diamonds? Safe to say we’re totally obsessed!
Is a salt and pepper diamond more expensive?
With a variety of inclusions and “flaws,” salt and pepper diamonds tend to be less expensive than their traditional clear counterparts. But they do still hold the value of a diamond, making them more expensive than diamond alternatives (such as lab-grown stones) and many other gems.
Salt and pepper diamonds are also gaining popularity in the wedding world and are now being sought after for their uniqueness. This has boosted their value and made them a hot commodity for engagement rings!
As Coffin explains: “Until fairly recently, diamonds that weren’t clear or some other clear fancy color, like blue, canary yellow, or pink, were once thought to be inferior by society’s standards. Designers started questioning the notion of ‘value’ and the societal norms associated with the white diamond. The once thrown away diamonds with inclusions, color variations, and opacity are now celebrated as unique, rare, and daring in contemporary jewelry.”
We love to see it!
How much should you expect to spend on a salt and pepper diamond engagement ring?
How much you spend on salt and pepper diamond engagement rings will depend on a few different factors, such as the carat of the diamond, the metal used for the band (for example, 18K gold will be more expensive than 14K gold), and if there are any accent stones. But typically, you can expect to spend between $1500 and $3000 on a salt and pepper diamond engagement ring.
How to know if a salt and pepper diamond engagement ring is high quality
The quality and value of salt and pepper diamonds is graded differently than traditional white diamonds. The Four C’s (cut, color, clarity, and carat) that are typically used to grade diamonds don’t always translate here, since the color and clarity of each salt and pepper diamond is distinct.
“Rustic stones have their own standards, and different levels of value based on their rarity, carat weight, cut quality, and translucency,” says Coffin.
When shopping for high-quality salt and pepper diamond engagement rings, look for fancy cuts (like the rose-cut) that show off the diamond’s distinct pattern, as well as rare inclusions that catch your eye. For these rings, the value really is in the eye of the beholder!
What types of wedding rings to pair with a salt and pepper diamond engagement ring
With such rad, non-traditional vibes, salt and pepper diamond engagement rings look amazing with boho wedding bands. Think: geometric styles, luxe crowns, and bands with unexpected details.
We especially love the look of pairing these engagement rings with both black and white diamond bands — they bring out the salt and the pepper in the main stone, and add a little extra sparkle to the ensemble!
GWS Pro Tip: Many salt and pepper diamond engagement rings have matching bands (like this hexagon beauty and matching salt and pepper diamond band), so be sure to keep an eye out for those along your ring-shopping journey. We’ve also included tons of great matching options down below!
Best Places to Buy Salt and Pepper Engagement Rings
More and more jewelers are starting to create gorgeous salt and pepper diamond rings, but here are our top three fave spots to shop the look:
- Etsy: If you’re looking for stunning (and budget-friendly) salt and pepper diamond engagement rings in every style, Etsy has you covered. They have dozens of expert independent designers who are creating some of the most beautiful rings in the game (plus gorgeous bands to match!).
- Capucinne: We love Capucinne for their whimsical and nature-inspired salt and pepper diamond engagement rings. They are known for handmaking all their rings and offering extensive customization options. This is definitely the place to be for distinct rings you won’t find anywhere else.
- Staghead Designs: Staghead Designs specializes in customizable rings that speak to you personal story and style. Not only do they have some swoon-worthy salt and pepper styles (just look at this feminine floral one!), but all of their designs can be totally personalized to make your dream ring a reality!
Now that you’re a salt and pepper diamond expert, let’s get into the finger candy!
The Best Salt and Pepper Engagement Rings We’re Loving
Now for what you’ve all been waiting for: the bling!
We’ve rounded up the best salt and pepper diamond engagement rings in every shape, cut, and style. Whether you’re searching for a classic salt and pepper ring that will never go out of style or an unexpected design that speaks to your partner’s personality, we’ve found the best of the best.
Keep scrolling for all of the most stunning galaxy diamonds, and get ready to say “yes” to your forever ring!!
2: Glamorous Kite Salt and Pepper Diamond Engagement Ring
Channel the glitz and glam of the Art Deco period with this dazzling salt and pepper diamond engagement ring!
This gorgeous ring features a kite cut salt and pepper diamond surrounded by sparkling round accent stones and a glimmering gold band. The result? A glamorous sparkler that makes a statement — perfect if your S.O. also loves to stand out from the crowd!
P.S. You can order this salt and pepper diamond ring with or without the matching band, but we say the more sparkle the better!
10: Classic + Timeless Salt and Pepper Golden Solitaire
On the other end of the spectrum…if your partner’s style is classic and timeless (but with a bit of an edge), you can’t go wrong with this gorgeous salt and pepper diamond engagement ring!
A round solitaire stone is a classic for a reason — it complements every style and will never go out of fashion! This elegant ring definitely checks off those boxes, while also adding a one-of-a-kind touch, thanks to the rose-cut salt and pepper diamond. It’s truly the best of both worlds!
It’s no secret that we LOVE Etsy’s range of gorgeous rings. For more stunning styles made by talented independent designers, don’t miss our list of the best Etsy engagement bands!
24: Boho Geometric Crown Salt and Pepper Set
Bold, bohemian, and absolutely beautiful, this salt and pepper diamond engagement ring draws you in the moment you lay eyes on it.
Made up of multiple distinct kite cut diamonds, this rad ring and matching crown are perfect if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary (but in the most stunning way possible).
And since both rings are so striking, you can wear each of them separately and still have an attention-grabbing look. Great if your S.O. loves to switch up their style!
27: Golden Sunrise Salt and Pepper Sparkler
If ring #20 on this list channels golden hour, then this stunning salt and pepper diamond engagement ring channels sunrise!
It features the same half-circle diamond with a golden bezel setting — but instead of boho sun rays, this sparkler makes a statement with a crown of dazzling ombré diamonds.
We can’t think of a better way to start this new chapter in your relationship than with a ring that symbolizes the start of a new day. Meaningful AND gorgeous! (Bonus points if you propose during sunrise!)
Plan the Most Epic Proposal With Our Best Guides
Ready to pop the question? Now that you have the perfect salt and pepper diamond engagement ring covered, it’s time to plan the ultimate milestone: the proposal!
To help you make it a moment to remember, we’ve rounded up 74 unique proposal ideas that will help you achieve tears, smiles, and a big “YES!”
And to ensure it goes smoothly, we also created the ultimate guide on how to measure ring size at home (as discreetly as possible). There’s nothing like sliding the dream ring on their finger and having it fit perfectly!
How are you planning to propose? Need any tips or advice? Let us know in the comments below!