'The 4 C’s of Diamonds' - Diamond Colour

The diamond colour scale was devised by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in the mid 1950's to define and regulate the colour spectrum of diamonds. The GIA proposed starting at D as the best and most colourless diamond available. The colour D was chosen because diamond dealers were already using A, B and C and a break was required to regulate and harmonize the industry. The diamond colour scale progresses through the alphabet from D until Z.

Diamond Colour Grades

• White/Colourless

Colour: D
D is the highest colour grade attributed to a diamond, denoting that the stone is completely colourless (white); as such, they are extremely rare and command the highest prices.
Colour: E
The colour difference between a D and an E graded stone is usually only visible to an expert gemmologist using master stones as a comparison, although E graded stones are slightly cheaper.
Colour: F
The colour difference between an E and an F is only visible to an expert gemologist using master stones as a comparison. F grades are the lowest and therefore least expensive of the premium colours.

• Nearly White/Colourless

Colour: G
G graded diamonds are nearly colourless and a slight colour difference only become perceptible when compared to diamonds of grades D or E. G stones appear colourless especially once set and therefore offer excellent value for money.
Colour: H
H coloured diamonds are near colourless diamonds which still appear totally white or colourless if they are not compared side by side with higher colour graded stones. The H colour is generally considered the watershed between colourless diamonds and slightly tinted diamonds. As a result, the H colour is great value for money and unsurprisingly a very popular option.

• Slightly Tinted

Colour: I
I coloured diamonds are very slightly tinted diamonds, however, once set in jewellery, these stones may appear colourless. If you are looking to maximize your budget, then an I coloured diamond offers great value for money.
Colour: J
J coloured diamonds are very slightly tinted diamonds, however, once set in jewellery, especially in yellow gold, it is harder to see the slight yellow tint which the J grade produces. If you are looking to maximize your budget or if you have a preference for slightly yellow tinted diamonds, then the J grade is a great option, offering fantastic value for money.

• Tinted Colour

Colour: K - Z
K – Z diamonds are  particularly within the light yellow and yellow ranges and do have a noticeable yellow colour to them, even to the naked and untrained eye.

When it comes to colour, those seeking a purer stone will generally only consider stones in the D to F, or premium range. However, those less concerned with classified purity but rather the appearance of a colourless stone can get great value for money in selecting a diamond within the G to I range.

If on a stricter budget, it is always worth considering a J coloured stone which offers great value for money as it can appear nearly colourless when set in certain jewellery. It is especially important to remember that jewellery settings can greatly impact the appearance of colour.


Factors That Can Affect Diamond Colour

• Mounting of the Stone

A loose diamond that appears lightly yellow to the naked eye will usually appear more colourless when mounted in a white setting -- platinum or white-gold. Mounting the same diamond in yellow-gold metal usually enhances the diamond's yellowish tone.

• Diamond Fluorescence

Another characteristic that does not affect the colour grade of a diamond but is worth keeping in mind is diamond fluorescence. When choosing a diamond, you should always look for a fluorescence of either none or faint. Medium, Strong and Very Strong fluorescence can make some diamonds appear to have a slightly blue or milky white tint in strong sunlight or under an ultraviolet light.

• Diamond Colour treatments

Various colour treatments are also undertaken for diamonds and colours can often be dramatically changed with these treatments. One such prevalent treatment is the HP/HT processing where high pressure and high temperatures are used to influence the colour of the stone. Besides these permanent treatments, various temporary coatings can also be opted for to enhance a diamond colour.

You can either contact us on +60162211051 today or email us on kul.stones@gmail.com to arrange a consultation about your exquisite loose diamond.