Melee

The term 'melee' (from French for 'mixture') refers to the small stones used to create sparkle and visual texture around a focal gem. Melee diamonds are graded by size (in millimeters or points), color, and clarity, but individual grading reports are rarely issued for such small stones. Lab-grown diamonds have entered the melee market significantly, as the price differential from natural stones is especially pronounced at small sizes. Melee may also refer to small colored gemstones — sapphire or ruby melee in jewelry settings. Sorting and matching melee for color and size consistency is a skilled aspect of gem wholesaling.