MANILA -- Diamonds, like many things, are judged on how close they are to perfection.

In the jewelry business, such perfection depends on the four Cs of the stone: cut, color, carat and clarity. Generally, the industry puts higher value in a diamond that is more brilliant, as well as whiter, bigger and clearer.

But not everyone wants the “perfect” diamond -- at least not anymore.

Yani Monroy of the bespoke jewelry shop Little White Pouch has noted a recent rise in appreciation and inquiries for imperfect stones.

“I used to only get orders for clear and clean diamonds, but after I posted my Flaws Ring – a 1.75-carat salt-and-pepper diamond set in rose gold – I've already received custom orders for galaxy diamonds. Most were for engagement or promise rings.”

Monroy explained that salt-and-pepper diamonds (also known as galaxy diamonds) are genuine and natural diamonds that are made out of carbon – just like the classic and very popular clear, white and flawless diamonds. But they do have very obvious and often many white (salt) and black (pepper) inclusions floating inside the stone.

Like traditional diamonds, galaxy diamonds come in different cuts and shapes, as well as in various colors. Grey though is the most popular hue at the Little White Pouch store because they look good set in rose gold.

While most traditional buyers would run away at the very sight of those black and white specks, a more progressive breed of clientele actually seeks these stones. In a way, the inclusions “give the stone more personality with its unique flaws,” added Monroy.

LESS EXPENSIVE OPTION

Tradition dictates that a man who wishes to propose a marriage must purchase an engagement ring that is worth at least two months of his salary. But that rule of thumb just does not apply to everyone anymore.

The reality is that such financial pressure can be overwhelming to someone who will soon be planning a wedding, building a home and starting a family. While popping the question sans a diamond ring is out of the question nowadays, one need not break the bank in doing so. Galaxy diamonds actually present a less expensive option for potential shoppers.

Although equally beautiful, salt-and-pepper diamonds are usually 30% to 50% the price of a clear diamond. The only kicker, Monroy said, is that “galaxy diamonds, because of their specks, are not as strong as the typical clear diamonds. But they are still stronger than the hardest gem stones like sapphires and rubies.”

But going beyond the price, what may attract buyers to this kind of diamond is the message that it conveys: that one is loved and appreciated not in spite of one’s blemishes, but because of them.

And if the engagement stones were truly to become a beautiful display of love and a symbol of commitment, then the galaxy diamonds would be the perfect choice.

“It’s a celebration of beauty in imperfections especially made for beautifully imperfect human beings like us,” Monroy said, explaining why they embrace the flecked diamonds at the Little White Pouch.

Just like the subjects of love for whom the stones will be given, galaxy diamonds are imperfect but valued, flawed but loved.