What element is in red diamonds?

Answer 1

Some diamonds are coloured based on the inclusion of other minerals within the carbon crystal: nitrogen being most common, which gives diamonds a yellow cast.

In the case of a red diamond, however, it is the type of diamond, a Type IIa, which gives it its colour. Type IIa diamonds are coloured based on 'structural anomalies" that exist in the stone based on 'plastic deformation'.

(These deformations are caused by the "non-reversible changes" in shape that occur under the enormous pressure required to form diamonds deep within the earth's mantel.)

Other colours produced by this natural phenomenon include pink and brown.

Answer 2

Red diamonds get their color from defects in their crystal lattice, primarily from dislocations and distortions in the structure. These defects affect the way the diamond absorbs light, making it appear red. The color is not due to the presence of a specific element.