Black gemstones have their own unique shine. Phil Halfmann/Getty Images
Certain gems sparkle with rainbow brilliance. Some gems whisper in the dark, while others are dazzlingly bright. Black stones may not be flashy but their symbolism, geology, and style are significant. These stones are popular for their vibrant color, strength and sometimes surprising origins. Black gems are more than just beautiful. They have a powerful energy that is said to ground you or evoke a timeless look.
1. Black Diamond
Black Diamonds are diamonds but the color is due to abundant inclusions of graphite or amorphous Carbon. The Mohs scale gives them a 10 rating, which makes them perfect for everyday wear. The jet black color and metallic sheen give these diamonds a unique appearance. Black diamonds also belong to the family of colored fancy diamonds.
2. Black Onyx (19459051) Black onyx. Maurizio Radice / Getty Images (19459046) A black variety of chalcedony, a quartz-family variety. Black onyx is used for mourning jewelry. Semiprecious black onyx is often characterized by a dark, solid color with a smooth surface. The Mohs rating is 6.5-7.0, which makes it less durable than diamonds. However, this gemstone can still be used for jewelry.
3. Tahitian Black Pearls
Tahitian black pearl jewelry. Luis Davilla/Getty Images
These black pearls are formed in the oyster with a black lip and have natural colors ranging from green to dark gray. Although not black in color, these pearls have a lustrous luster that is prized by high-end jewelers. The fact that they are from warm Pacific water adds to their appeal.
4. Black Spinel (#19659004) Often confused with black tourmaline or sapphire, the mineral black spinel has a rich, opaque color and is highly durable. The Mohs Scale rating is 8 and it’s often found in jewelry for men because of its dark, clean look.
5. Black Tourmaline (19459051) Black tourmaline. Zen Rial / Getty Images (19459046) Black tourmaline, renowned in crystal healing because of its purported capacity to absorb negative energies, is also a fashionable choice for jewelry. The striated surface and dark color of black tourmaline make it an ideal choice for bold designs.
6. Black Opal (19459051) Black opal. Nugroho Ridho / Getty Images (19459046) Found mostly in Australia and the black opal type is rarest. True black opals are darker than black crystal opals, which can be semitransparent. They also have vibrant colors. They are composed of hydrated silicon with trace amounts of iron oxide and carbon, giving them their dark color.
7. Black Sapphires
6. Black Opal (19459051) Black opal. Nugroho Ridho / Getty Images (19459046) Found mostly in Australia and the black opal type is rarest. True black opals are darker than black crystal opals, which can be semitransparent. They also have vibrant colors. They are composed of hydrated silicon with trace amounts of iron oxide and carbon, giving them their dark color.
7. Black Sapphires
This sapphire is often from Australia. It’s known for its dark undertones, and durability. These sapphires are perfect for everyday wear. They have an inky, uniform color. Black star sapphire is a name for some versions that have rutile inclusions. They show a star-like effect.
8. Jet
This lightweight black stone is formed from wood fossilized under high pressure. It’s often used for antique jewelry and in mourning jewelry. The stone is softer than most (roughly 2.5 on the Mohs Scale) and easy to polish.
9. Black Moissanite (19659007) This silicon carbide diamond alternative has a metallic sheen and is manufactured from the material. It was discovered originally in meteorites but is mostly lab-created. Black moissanite, a cheaper alternative to natural moissanite, is durable and affordable.
10. Obsidian (19459051) Obsidian. Jasius / Getty Images (19459046) A volcanic glass formed by rapidly cooling lava. The smooth surface, sharp edges and reflective finish made obsidian useful for ancient tools as well as modern ornamentation. Obsidian is also known as snowflake, which displays white crystal patches over a base of black glass. It can be a pure volcanic black glass depending on impurities.
11. Black Garnet
11. Black Garnet
Black garnet is less common than garnet red. It can look almost opaque. Dark hues are perfect for people who prefer black stones that have a subtler look. The Mohs hardness scale places it at 6.5, 7 or 7.5.
12. Black Chalcedony (19659010) A cousin of onyx, agate and agates, this black chalcedony has a smooth texture, with a black finish. The polishing and durability of this stone make it a popular choice for jewelry.
13. Black Quartz
This dark quartz stone is a member of the family quartz and gets its color from graphite or inclusions. This stone is strong (Mohs 7), versatile, and often used to create bold geometric patterns. Jewelry enthusiasts love it.
14. Black Diopside (#19659012) Known as a cat’s-eye variety, this semiprecious gemstone has a slight greenish black tint. This gem is less common, but it’s becoming more popular for jewelry and special occasions.
15. Black Jade (#19659013) This stone can be classified as either nephrite or jadeite, depending on its composition. The color of this stone can vary from dark gray or near-black. It is a classic style that works well for men’s jewellery and everyday clothing. This article was created using AI, and then fact-checked by HowStuffWorks editors.
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