Diamond Standard – Color

How do you determine the best colour for diamonds?

There is no such thing as best color for diamonds in terms of an individual preference; however, in terms of quality and value the best color is no color at all because such a diamond is extremely rare and would be designated a D color, under the GIA grading system. It is important to remember, however, that many customers actually prefer a hint of color, or even a pronounced color which in diamonds often means what is termed a “fancy colored diamond”.

Why is there a big difference in value between a high-color diamond and a low-color one?

The rarest and most valuable diamonds in the world are those that come closest to having no color at all other than the very rare diamonds called “fancies” such as blue, red, or green, pink or intense yellow. However, color is only one of the four criteria by which a diamond will be judged. Equally important are cut, clarity and carat weight. So the closer a diamond is to flawless and without color the rarer and more valuable it will be.

Why do colorless diamonds have the highest value? Is it due to the fact that demand is greater than supply?

Diamonds that have no color at all are extremely rare and therefore more valuable than those that are tinted white.

Is the same color grading scale universally recognized by all jewelers, for example , does “G” color mean the same wherever one shop?

There are a number of internationally recognized grading scales, all of which will enable you to judge the quality and value of your diamond. These scales are by an large compatible but may well use different nomenclature. G is a description most commonly used by the laboratories and you should consult your jeweler on how other scales express the identical grade.