Diamond accents are small diamonds set into a piece of jewelry to complement a larger, central gemstone. These secondary stones are used to increase the overall brilliance and enhance the visual presence of the main diamond. They are a design element intended to draw the eye toward the centerpiece, adding sparkle and detail without competing for attention.
What Defines a Diamond Accent?
A diamond accent is defined primarily by its diminutive size and its supporting role in a jewelry design. These stones are typically very small, often weighing less than 0.20 carats individually, and are frequently referred to in the trade as “melee” diamonds. The term “melee” generally applies to small, round diamonds that are less than 2.0 millimeters in diameter, or under 0.18 carats in weight.
Jewelers also use the term “point stones” to describe these tiny diamonds, where one point equals 0.01 carats. Accent stones are distinct from “side stones,” which are larger, more prominent diamonds, such as baguettes or trillions, that flank the center stone and contribute significantly to the overall design structure. The function of an accent is to create a continuous field of light, blending into the metalwork rather than standing out as an individual gem.
Understanding Accent Diamond Quality (The 4 Cs)
The standard 4 Cs—Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight—still apply to accent diamonds, but their grading is approached differently than for a large center stone. Cut is particularly important for these small stones because it dictates their sparkle, even though they are rarely graded individually. Most modern melee diamonds are “full cut,” meaning they possess 57 or 58 facets, mirroring the complex faceting of a larger brilliant-cut diamond. Uniformity in the cut of all accents is necessary to ensure a cohesive, shimmering appearance across the entire piece.
Color is often considered the most important quality factor for accent diamonds, as a noticeable difference in hue can detract from the center stone. Accent stones must closely match the color grade of the main diamond to prevent a stark contrast, such as a slightly yellow accent next to a colorless center stone.
Clarity standards are typically lower for accents because inclusions are difficult to see without high magnification due to the stone’s small size. It is common for accent diamonds to be graded in the Slightly Included (SI) or Included (I) range, provided they remain “eye clean,” meaning no flaws are visible to the naked eye.
The carat weight of accent diamonds is almost always expressed as the Total Carat Weight (CTW) of all the small stones combined, rather than the weight of each individual stone. This collective measurement reinforces their role as a group contributing to the overall sparkle.
How Accents Impact Jewelry Design and Value
Diamond accents play a significant role in the aesthetic appeal of a piece. They are often used to create a “halo” effect that encircles the center stone, making it appear larger and more brilliant. Accents are commonly secured using setting styles like pave, channel, or bezel settings to create continuous lines of sparkle along the band. Pave settings, for instance, involve setting many small accents close together, minimizing the visible metal and maximizing the diamond surface area.
From a financial perspective, accents offer a cost-effective method for increasing the perceived size and brilliance of a piece of jewelry. They add substantial aesthetic value and sparkle without the exponential price increase associated with a jump in the center stone’s carat weight. This makes them a popular choice for buyers seeking a dramatic look within a specific budget. However, jewelry featuring numerous small accents may require more frequent maintenance. The tiny prongs holding the stones need periodic inspection to ensure the accents remain securely fastened.