diamond color
GamingOne of the “four C” criteria for diamond appraisal is color. As with the other grading categories, a diamond with a higher color grade will always command a higher price than a diamond with a lower grade.
Although color seems like a self-explanatory criterion, the causes behind coloration and the implications it has can be a bit complicated. When shopping for diamonds, you are likely to find diamonds that come in a wide variety of color grades, although sometimes the slight differences can be very difficult to discern. Colors are just as important as any of the other 4 C’s, so it’s a good idea to be aware of what the different color classifications mean.
What is the color of the diamond?
A diamond’s color grade reflects the extent to which coloration is visible within the diamond. Diamonds that have less visible coloration receive a higher color grade, while diamonds with lower color grades have coloration that is clearly visible to the naked eye.
In most cases, this coloration takes the form of a yellowish hue, and this is generally considered undesirable. On the other hand, there are some diamonds with a deep natural color that are actually considered more valuable the deeper the color. In addition to bright yellow diamonds, these can also include blue diamonds, pink diamonds, and the extremely rare red diamonds. Normal color grades do not apply to these specialty diamonds.
What diamond color grades are there?
Certifiers use a simple letter grading system to express the color grade of diamonds.
These grades are almost always expressed the same way, regardless of the organization that certifies the diamond. Diamond color grades are as follows.
• D: Absolutely colorless. These are very rare and expensive.
• ON: Colorless. Any coloration is invisible to the naked eye.
• GH: Almost colorless. The coloration is very difficult to see.
• J: Almost colorless. Coloration is slightly visible.
• KM: Perceivable color. The coloration is easily visible.
• NZ: Perceivable color. The coloration is strong enough to detract from the other visual aspects of the diamond.
Which color grade represents the best value?
The best value can usually be found with diamonds that fall in the GI range of color grades. This is because while these diamonds are virtually white to the naked eye, they can be significantly more affordable than the rare “colorless.” The JL grade can also be a good value for buyers on a budget, as the yellowish tint in these diamonds is still barely noticeable and does not have much of a negative impact on the overall appearance of the diamond.