Diamond Color Education
Diamonds are found in almost any color, because certain chemicals were drawn into the mix during their formation. The color of a diamond will never change over time. Generally, diamond color refers to how much color presents in a white diamond. The less amount of color it has, the more sparkle it will emit, and the more valuable that diamond is. (Fancy color diamonds do not follow this rule.) Diamonds are graded on a color scale established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) which ranges from D (colorless) to Z. D is the highest color grade, and D color diamonds are truly colorless and very rare.
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| color - D | color - E | color - F | color - G |
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| color - H | color - I | color - J | color - K |
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| color - L | color - M | color - Light Yellow | color - Fancy Yellow |
D: Absolutely colorless.The highest color grade, D color diamonds are extremely rare and valuable.
E - F: Colorless.Only very slight traces of color can be detected during color grading. E, F color loose diamonds, whether being mounted, have no hint of color to the naked eyes.
G - H: Near-colorless.Color difference is noticeable during grading. After mounted in a setting, the stones appear colorless.
I - J: Slight-color. After being mounted, the diamond color is still slightly detectable.
K - M: Faint yellow.Yellow or grayish tint is obvious during color grading. After being mounted, the diamond color is still observable.
N - Z: Light yellow. Obvious yellow or grayish color.
Z+: Fancy. The color is so intense and bright. These stones are very rare and valuable.
Which diamond color should I choose?
If you have a budget, it is good to take a look at all the 4Cs and strike a balance. Diamonds with D, E, F color, are naturally very attractive, but also cost much more. Diamonds with G and H color (colorless), can achieve a "colorless" look; they are also very valuable. Diamonds with I and J color (slight-color) are most affordable and virtually show no color to the untrained eyes.