What Is Diamond Color?

From fiery reds to deep violets, diamonds naturally occur in every color of the rainbow. You’d think this would constitute diamond color— whether you get a bright pink jewel or a vivid blue one— however, that isn’t the case. While both are important factors when selecting a diamond, diamond color is not interchangeable with colored diamonds (also known as fancy-color diamonds).

What Is Diamond Color?

Part of the four C’s, diamond color is a big part of diamond valuation along with carat, clarity, and cut. Funnily enough, diamond color is actually a categorized spectrum that measures the absence of color in the diamond. The less color a diamond has, the rarer and more expensive it is. Similarly, the more tinted a diamond is, the less valuable it is considered.

How Is Diamond Color Graded?

Evaluated only by certified grading professionals, diamond color is graded on a scale ranging from D to Z, with D having the least color and Z having the most. We have organized the categories in the list below.

D-F: The highest-quality color grade a diamond can receive. D-F diamonds are considered colorless and extremely rare. D-F diamonds have an unparalleled brilliance and icy pureness like a fresh drop of water.
G-J: G-J diamonds are judged as nearly colorless and have a detectable color only when compared to higher color grades. To the untrained eye, they appear colorless, thus providing excellent value for the quality.
K-M: Diamonds in this category are considered faintly colored (usually with a yellow tint) and are popularly used in commercial jewelry. These diamonds are a budget-friendly pick that pairs beautifully with yellow gold.
N-R: N-R diamonds are faintly colored with a yellow or brown tinge.
S-Z: The most colored of the categories, S-Z diamonds are not recommended due to their easily seen yellow or brown color.

While it may be tempting to get the brightest diamond out there, purchasing a clear D-graded diamond usually isn’t necessary. Many of the color distinctions are extremely subtle and invisible to the untrained eye, especially when the stone is set in the ring.

How To Choose Diamond Color

The most important thing to consider when choosing a diamond color is how white it looks in relation to its setting. Because of this, we usually recommend diamonds graded G-J as they appear colorless in all materials. However, if you have less of a budget, pairing a more colored diamond with yellow or rose gold bands would make the stone appear whiter.

Have questions about diamond color or any other considerations of diamond purchasing? Contact us at The Diamond Guys to talk to our professional consultants to select the perfect diamond for you.