DIAMOND COLOR

The color evaluation of diamonds is based on the absence of color, so when we speak

of color we actually are referring to the degree of colorlessness in a diamond. Many of

these color distinctions are so subtle that they are invisible to the untrained eye;

however, these distinctions make a very big difference in diamond quality and price.

While most diamonds are white, not all are truly colorless, they have color tints. In a

white diamond, the presence of a tint is considered undesirable. Diamonds are graded

on a Whiteness scale or absence of color scale. Basically, the whiter or clearer the color

of a diamond, the greater its value.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has devised a set of guidelines to grade

diamond color. Diamond color ranges from D to Z, with D color diamonds being rare,

totally colorless and the most expensive. Each letter represents a range of color based

on a diamond's tone and saturation.

Colo Description
r
D Absolutely colorless. The highest color grade, which is
extremely rare.
E Colorless. Very negligible traces of color can be noticed by an
expert gemologist. A rare diamond.
F Colorless. Very negligible color traces can be seen by an
expert gemologist, but still considered a "colorless" grade. A
high-quality diamond.
G-H Near-colorless. Color noticeable when compared to diamonds
of better grades, but these grades offer excellent value.
 I-J-K Color is detectable. An excellent value, especially if the
-L diamond is to be set in yellow-gold jewelry.
M-N Noticeable pale yellow color.
O-Z Noticeable yellow color.

WHICH COLOR TO CHOOSE?

The difference in appearance between colorless diamonds and near

colorless diamonds may not be detectable, but the price difference from one

color grade to another can be significant.

The purists at heart will always want diamonds in the D-F range. By

selecting diamonds in the G-I range, however, you can find a tremendous

value while still achieving a "colorless" look.

J-K-L color diamonds can be chosen if you want to buy a larger-sized

diamond or a higher clarity diamond within your budget.

Diamonds with pointed ends, specifically marquise, radiant, pear and

sometimes even princess shaped diamonds tend to focus the color on these

points. So, you should select diamonds with better colors for these shapes.

FLUORESCENCE
Fluorescence is an important factor influencing the color of a diamond. Fluorescence

can be observed in a diamond when it is exposed to ultraviolet light (such as lighting in

nightclubs). Under normal lighting conditions, this fluorescence effect is generally not

detectable to the naked eye. Generally, diamonds with a high degree of fluorescence

are considered undesirable and are cheaper than diamonds with no fluorescence.
However, some people prefer diamonds with fluorescence; its a matter of aesthetics

really. If the fluorescence intensity is Strong or Very Strong, then the diamond tends

to have a milky or oily look and is much cheaper than a diamond with None

fluorescence.

For yellow-tinted diamonds, especially in the color ranges J-K-L-M, diamonds with

fluorescence seem to have a better color i.e. they appear to be whiter than a similar

color diamond with no fluorescence. So, if you are looking to buy a diamond in these

color ranges, it might be a good idea to get a diamond with fluorescence intensity of

Faint Slight even Medium

TIPS BY SARVADA JEWELS EXPERTS:

It is important to keep in mind the metal color of the jewelry for which the

diamond is to be purchased. If it is yellow gold, then it might be prudent to

buy I color or lower since a higher color will also appear yellowish because

of the yellow gold reflections. Similarly, for white gold or platinum jewelry,

you can consider buying F-G-H color.

The visible difference between diamonds of one color grade, for example G

to H or I to J, is so minor it is difficult to detect with the unaided eye. The cost

savings, however, can be significant. The more visible color differences are

between D color and G color and G color and J color.

As diamond size increases, color becomes more noticeable. This is

especially important to keep in mind if purchasing a diamond of 1.50 cts or

greater.
 If selecting a diamond within the color range J-K-L-M, consider buying a

diamond with fluorescence as the diamond will appear to be whiter or

colorless than it actually is.

PUBLISHED BY

Ishaan
Ishaan holds a B.Sc in Economics degree from the London School of Economics and
Political Science (LSE) and has worked at Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank before
he decided to return to the family business of manufacturing diamonds. He worked with
various diamond companies in Surat, Mumbai and Israel for several years before
founding Sarvada Diamonds as a diamond manufacturing company in 2013. He has
also completed a diamond grading course from the Gemological Institute of America
(GIA). Having forayed into jewellery in 2013, Ishaan has focused on delivering exquisite,
well-crafted bespoke products. He started SarvadaJewels.com with the aim of providing
expert consultation for selecting diamonds and creating customized jewellery, using his
rich industry experience and knowledge. When hes not surrounded by diamonds,
Ishaan loves reading, traveling and watching movies.