The Diamond Library

Traditional Diamonds

Long considered the most popular choice, ‘Traditional’ white diamonds are not actually white at all, with hues ranging from as colourless as a drop of water to having tints of light yellow, light brown or grey. One of the ‘Four C’s’ discussed in reference to diamonds refers to its Colour, with high value placed upon how close a stone is to being colourless - the rarest. Our white diamonds are sourced by our long-term and trusted supplier, Clark Diamonds, a UK based company whose stones all comply with the Kimberley Process.

Fancy Coloured Diamonds

Diamonds naturally come in many colours other than white, and are often referred to as ‘Fancy’. Coloured diamonds have their own grading system, and are valued for the intensity and distribution of their colour. Intense colour can also be achieved using a process of irradiation, but any diamonds used in Alex Monroe jewellery will always be natural in colour.

Antique Diamonds

Antique diamonds will have been mined and shaped by hand at least 100 years ago, meaning that the facets will be bigger and less uniform than those seen in modern stones. Although not as obviously dazzling, the sparkle of old cut diamonds feels deeper and warmer, with the eye drawn into the stone, instead of bouncing the light back out. Antique diamonds also perhaps offer a touch more romance, as they perform so well in low, or candle lit settings.

Lab Grown Diamonds

The subject of lab-grown Diamonds is one of much debate. They provide an option outside conventional mining, which is historically problematic for both social and environmental reasons - but could ultimately remove much-needed income from mining communities, and many ‘Labs’ often have an unknown or undisclosed environmental impact.

We chose to offer stones from The Diamond Foundry, the world’s first diamond producer to be certified with a zero carbon footprint. The Diamond Foundry’s production is based in Washington State and powered by the Columbia River using renewable hydroelectric power.

Ocean Diamonds

Ocean Diamonds are a pioneering supplier working with professional divers to source diamonds from the seabeds around Namibia and South Africa. Their diamonds can be traced from diver to final owner - a transparent supply chain which not only creates minimal environmental impact, but also ensures the provenance of their diamonds is ethical and conflict-free.

Handmade in England & Ethical

At Alex Monroe, we have been proudly hand making jewellery in England using a mix of traditional and specifically developed techniques, for over 30 years. From the inspiration behind our collections, to how our collections come to life, read on to discover the making process behind every piece of Alex Monroe jewellery.

Bespoke

Alex’s signature natural style has been reimagined by our design team as a stunning selection of One of a Kind hairpieces. Completely handmade, each piece and sets of pins features a unique configuration of florals, leaves and vines, with a few of our favourite creatures dotted here and there.