Color? In a diamond? The average person is not aware that
diamonds can come in man
y
colors. There are the fancy diamonds which can be deep yellow,
blue, even black, and then there are the diamonds with a faint
yellow tint that can drastically reduce their value. When
talking about a loose diamond for an engagement or wedding
setting, or for earrings then the best color is no color.
One of the big “C?s” to know about when shopping for a diamond
is color. It can be the first noticeable problem with a diamond
ring. One reason that Woodberry Diamonds sells loose diamonds
is that once a diamond is in a setting it is more difficult
to tell the actual color. We want our customers to know exactly
what type of diamond they have purchased.
A diamond?s color is typically noted using a code system of
letters. The concept is pretty simple: the letter D represents
the best, meaning that it is a colorless diamond. As the letters
descend through the alphabet the color becomes more noticeably
yellow or gray. The guidelines to use are D-E-F are considered
colorless against a white background. G-H-I-J are considered
“near colorless” which means they may have a faint appearance
of yellow, or tint against a white background, but in a setting
look almost colorless. Anything below these letters, such
as K-L-M have an obvious tint against a white background,
and would most likely appear yellow in a setting. The table
below provides a general guide to the various color codes
and what they may look like against a white background.
Color is very important in determining the value of a diamond.
If all other qualities of “C’s” remain the same and the only
change is in color the price can vary by several thousands
of dollars. It is also important to remember if not against
a white background the visible difference in a D or E diamond
is minimal compared to an H or I color diamond. When selecting
your perfect diamond, Woodberry Diamonds suggests not going
below a J in color. Continue with your education, as color
is just one of the factors to consider when purchasing your
loose diamond.