The colour of a diamond is one of the key characteristics that affects its value and appearance.
Colour Grading Scale
Diamonds are graded on a colour scale established initially by the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA), which ranges from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown):
- D-F: Colourless – The most valuable and rare diamonds. These have no detectable colour to the naked eye.
- G-J: Near Colourless – Slight hints of yellow colour may be detectable under magnification or in certain lighting, but they still appear colourless to most.
- K-M: Faint Colour – Noticeable warmth or yellow hue, especially in larger diamonds and fancy shape diamonds
- N-R: Very Light Colour – Clear yellow or brown tint is easily visible to the naked eye
- S-Z: Light Colour – Stronger yellow or brown tint, less desirable for most fine jewellery.
Fancy Coloured Diamonds
Diamonds with a distinct and intense colour outside the D-Z range are classified as fancy-coloured diamonds. These include:
- Yellow, Green, Red with Pink and Blue being the rarest.
- Fancy diamonds are graded on their hue, tone, and saturation, and are often rarer and more valuable than colourless diamonds.
Impact on Price
- Colorless diamonds (D-F) typically command the highest prices.
- Near-colourless diamonds (G-J) can be excellent value as their tint is difficult to notice, especially when set in jewellery.
- Fancy-coloured diamonds are priced based on rarity, size and intensity of colour.
Choosing a Diamond Colour
- For white diamonds, we advise aiming for a grade that balances budget and appearance. Many prefer G colour (which is the lowest grade we stock) as they look nearly colorless to most and can cost significantly less than D-F grades.
- For yellow or rose gold settings, lower colour grades (e.g., H/I) can appear more neutral and offer cost savings.
- If you prefer fancy-coloured diamonds, focus on the intensity of the colour, as deeper hues are more desirable.
