The traditional diamond is clear in color, but they also come in other colors. You might be wondering how the color influences the value. Color is one of the 4 Cs used to determine a diamond’s value so the short answer is yes, the hue can alter how much a diamond is worth. If you’re shopping for a diamond, knowing how the color plays a role in its cost can help you decide if a certain hue is important to you. When you choose a diamond, be sure you look for certification by either the Gemological Institute of America or the American Gem Society. In the meantime, here’s a guide to diamond value based on color. PriceScope is a good source of additional independent information, if needed.
What is Diamond Color?
When it comes to diamonds, lack of color is actually what increases the value. The highest quality diamonds are those that are colorless, rather than those that have a yellow hue. Even a diamond that is yellowish is not considered a fancy colored diamond. Keep reading below to find out more about the difference between them.
Diamond Color Scale
When the experts determine the color of a diamond, it’s based on a color scale. The GIA rates diamonds from D to Z, with D being colorless and Z having a light color. Diamonds should be graded on color before being set, because once in a setting it can be harder to get a good picture of the color. Most experts say that you’ll get the most value for your diamond by choosing those graded G-J. For large diamonds, a grade of G or H is best. The cut of a diamond is often more important than the color because once in a setting, the color is harder to detect, but the cut contributes to the diamond’s brilliance.
Value of Your Diamond
Color is just one thing that influences the value of your diamond. The clarity, cut and carat weight are others. The clarity refers to how pure the stone is. Cut is how the diamond’s facets interact with the light. Carat weight refers to the weight of a diamond, with larger ones holding a higher value than smaller ones. When you choose a diamond, color is only one thing to consider when you’re trying to find a diamond with the value you’re looking for.
Fancy Colored Diamonds
Fancy colored diamonds are those outside the D-Z color scale and tend to hold a higher value because they are much more rare. Pink, blue, red and green diamonds tend to be the most valuable of the fancy colored diamonds. Yellow and brown diamonds are slightly less valuable. Fancy colored diamonds are rated based on the vivid nature of their color. The deeper and more vivid the color, the more value it holds.
Choosing a diamond can be a bit overwhelming but understanding how color affects the value can help you choose a beautiful stone that you love, no matter what color it happens to be.
