If it really is all in a name, let’s talk about melee diamonds. Melee comes from the French word for medley. So, visualize a “medley of gemstones” surrounding a diva, or in this case, a diamond, better known as the center stone. Melee diamonds are the tee-tiniest diamonds used to add that extra sparkle and shine to diamond jewelry. While you might not seek out melee diamonds on their own, chances are, you have at least one piece of jewelry featuring them. Keep reading for everything you should know about these small wonders. 

Think of melee diamonds as the stones that differentiate the piece itself. These delicate gems are what make each design unique and while they may not necessarily add to the cost, they can create the illusion of a more costly piece. Jewelry designers will cluster melee diamonds on rings, necklaces, and earrings to create the appearance of larger center stones. In fact, they are often referred to as “accent diamonds” because their predominant use is to accentuate larger diamonds or the piece as a whole. Some consumers may refer to melee diamonds as “diamond chips” but that is a mischaracterization. Each melee diamond has been cut and polished using high-tech machinery designed to produce the highest quality diamond, just as one would for a larger carat. 

According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), melee diamonds weigh less than 0.2 carats, and it is not uncommon to find some as small as 1/1000 of a carat. There are two types of cut used for melee: the single and full. A single cut melee diamond has between seventeen and eighteen facets, which makes it similar to a vintage round diamond. The full cut has between fifty-seven and fifty-eight facets and resembles a modern brilliant round cut. 

While some people worry that melee diamonds are not real diamonds, that perhaps they might be a crystal or another simulant, this simply isn’t true. Although very real, these diamonds are sold without GIA certification as it is impossible to provide grading detailing on each stone’s characteristics when they are so small. If you are purchasing a piece with melee diamonds, while you won’t get to choose the specific stones, you can rest assured that the artisans behind the jewelry-creating have carefully selected each one to match the central stone, in terms of brilliance and color. Additionally, it is the higher quality cut melee diamonds that make up more than 99% of all melees used in jewelry. 

If you are interested in jewelry with melees, the engagement ring is a popular option. You will see a “medley of stones” most often featured in these three settings: the halo, the pave, and three stones or more. Some jewelry designers will only use melee diamonds to create that gathered cluster of sparkle and shine for their pieces. If you opt for a piece with melees, you can’t go wrong. 

Visit our Shreve & Co. location in Palo Alto to explore our wide selection of diamond engagement rings! We would be happy to help you find the perfect piece for you and your significant other!