The Diamond Spot’s Spotlight on Diamond Color

One characteristic that is vital to selecting the perfect diamond is color.  In fact, for most consumers, it is a common misconception that higher color graded diamonds display a more intense sparkle and brilliance.

The Diamond Spot will help explain to you the keys to a diamond color.

What is Diamond Color?

When it comes to grading color, the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has devised a system of diamond coloring.  The normal range is from D (colorless) to Z (light brown or yellow).  The fancy color grading system begins when the intensity of the color in a diamond is stronger than a Z.

Diamonds are found throughout nature in almost every color and hue; grey, white, yellow, red, green, pink, and brown.  Despite common perception, it is scarce to find a truly colorless diamond. 

Why does it Matter How a Diamond Color is Graded?

Regardless of whether or not the GIA grades a diamond, almost everyone sold in the market today is rated using the standardized color scale.

A trained gemologist begins the grading process when they flip the loose stone over and begin to compare them with a known set of master stones. When a diamond is viewed from face down, the one aspect most apparent will be the color differences.

By viewing the diamond this way, it reduces Distractions, which are the result of internal and surface reflecting facets.  The process occurs in a controlled environment with neutral lighting to make sure accurate and consistent grading takes place.

A diamond is mounted face up in a setting in real life.  To the untrained eye, it would be complicated to recognize the subtle differences in color.

How does the Color Scale Chart Determine Diamond Color?

The GIA Diamond Chart and Color Grades consist of five main categories that range from colorless to slightly tinted.  The scarcest and “whitest” grade that money can buy are D color diamonds.

The color tint on a diamond will start to become more noticeable the further down the color scale you go.  When shopping for a diamond, The Diamond Spot will help highlight some of the more popular color grades on the market.

D, E, and F Diamonds – These diamonds are in the colorless range and will appear cool, icy white.  They command a higher premium price for these diamonds due to the rarity in nature. If money is no object, then these are the diamonds to get your hands on.

G, H, I, and J Diamonds – These diamonds are in the near-colorless range.  In the face-up view, they possess color tints that are very hard to differentiate.  If the diamonds are well-cut, the G and H colors will look white to most untrained eyes.

K, L, and M Diamonds – When looking for the best bang for your buck, these are the best color grades due to the balance of a tinge of color and affordability.  You should avoid diamonds beyond the color grade of K if you are color adverse.

It is incredible that yellowish color in a diamond is due to the presence of nitrogen in its chemical composition.  To cause the stone to appear as a K color is one-part nitrogen in a million.

Visit or schedule an appointment at The Diamond Spot and let one of our Diamond Specialists will walk you through the differences in a Diamond Color.  Seeing the difference in person is vital in determining the precise diamond that is perfect for you.