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As you embark on the quest to select the ideal diamond, understanding diamond color is very important. The color of a diamond plays a key role in its overall beauty and value. In this article, I will uncover the nuances of diamond color, equipping you with the necessary insights to navigate the selection process with confidence.
The GIA and AGS Diamond Color Grading Scale
Why does the GIA Color Scale
start at the letter “D”?
The GIA color grading scale was developed in the 1950’s. The GIA chose to start
the scale at D because many other scales started with the letter A or AA.
It was very confusing. One scale even used AAAA!
There were other scales with Arabic numerals (1,2,3) and Roman numerals (I,II,III)
and terms such as “blue white” and “gem blue.” A few grading charts even borrowed
names from diamond mines, with labels like Top Wesselton or Top Cape.
Buying a diamond used to be overwhelming for most people. The grading systems
were hard to follow and often gave mixed or unreliable results. This left many shoppers
confused and unsure about what they were actually getting. The lack of clear standards
made choosing the right diamond a stressful experience.
The GIA color chart starts at the letter D for that are colorless and goes through to Z for diamonds with a yellow shade. Each step marks a small shift in color, showing a slight increase in yellow as you move down the scale.
D,E,F (colorless)
Diamonds with D, E, or F color grades need a trained gemologist for accurate grading. Most people can’t spot the difference between a D and an F color with the naked eye. These diamonds look their brightest when set in platinum or white gold. Using yellow gold can cast a faint yellow shade onto the stone, which might take away from its natural whiteness.
G,H,I,J (near colorless)
These shades top the list for engagement rings, capturing plenty of attention. Diamonds in the I-J color range often cost about half as much as those with a D rating. Each color grade from G to J can add another 10 to 20 percent to the price.
K,L,M (faint yellow)
K color diamonds show a soft yellow tint that sets them apart from the brighter grades. When placed in yellow gold, their warm tones blend with the setting and can create a rich, attractive look. These diamonds usually cost about half as much as a G color, making them a popular choice for those looking for beauty at a more affordable price.
N-Z (very light yellow – light yellow)
Noticeable yellow color. Often used in discount jewelry.
How does the GIA determine the
Diamond Color Grade?
Diamonds sent to the GIA laboratories to be graded are put through a rigorous process.
Diamonds are graded using carefully controlled lighting and specific viewing conditions
to keep results accurate. For color grading, each diamond is compared with a set of master stones.
This helps experts judge the true color of every diamond and keeps the grading consistent.
A minimum of two color graders enter their independent evaluations of the color grade.
Depending on their agreement, and the weight and quality of the diamond, it may be
sent to additional graders who offer their own opinions. The final grade is
not determined until there is sufficient consensus.
Money Saving Tip
Pick a diamond with a color grade that’s one or two steps lower than you first
considered. The difference in shade is so slight that, once set, most people can’t see it at all.
The money you save by moving down a grade or two can go towards something
you see every day – a larger diamond, an attractive mounting, or a diamond that is
cut (proportioned) to reflect maximum brilliance.
