Diamond Color

Understanding what diamond color means helps in choosing the right diamond. Interestingly, the diamond color evaluation of most gem-quality diamonds is based on the absence of color. A chemically pure and structurally perfect diamond has no hue, like a drop of pure water, and consequently, a higher value. GIA’s D-to-Z diamond color-grading system measures the degree of colorlessness by comparing a stone under controlled lighting and precise viewing conditions to masterstones of established color value.

Many of these diamond color distinctions are so subtle that they are invisible to the untrained eye; however, these distinctions make a very big difference in diamond quality and price. Hence, it is important to get a GIA expert’s opinion in evaluating the best color for your diamond.

Why does the GIA color grading system start at D?

Before GIA universalized the D-to-Z Color Grading Scale, there was no clear standard to define what diamond color is. A variety of other systems were used loosely, from A, B, and C (used without clear definition), to Arabic (0, 1, 2, 3) and Roman (I, II, III) numbers, to descriptive terms like “gem blue” or “blue white,” which are notorious for misinterpretation. So, the creators of the GIA Color Scale wanted to start fresh, without any association with earlier systems. Thus the GIA scale starts at the letter D. Very few people still cling to other grading systems, and no other system has the clarity and universal acceptance of the GIA scale.

Are diamonds graded as Zs considered fancy-color?

No. Naturally colored diamonds outside the normal color range are called fancy-color diamonds. The FTC provides no guidelines for the use of the term “fancy-color” in the US, but there is general agreement in the international trade about what diamond color range is customary for fancy-color diamonds. These are either yellow or brown diamonds that have more color than a Z master stone or they exhibit a color other than yellow or brown.

4Cs OF DIAMOND QUALITY

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DIAMOND
COLOR

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DIAMOND
CUT

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DIAMOND CARAT WEIGHT

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Timothy H.
After seeing the reviews and reputation that David had online I decided to stop in for my engagement ring shopping. My girlfriend at the time was interested in yellow sapphires so I mentioned to him... that that's what I was looking for and gave him a price range. He had a few in the store but said that he had worked with other jewelers in town for twenty odd years, and thought they'd have some great ones for the ring. I think that same day he had spoken to a friend of his in the business and sent me an HD video of a beautiful yellow sapphire that they had. I was able to send that around to people helping me with the decision, and everyone loved the stone. He got it from his friend the next day and I was able to see it in the store and purchase it. We had a bit of a special request of the band being gold, and he designed a beautiful ring accommodating that, and even had my fiance's sister on the phone with us to talk through the design. It's worth noting that he only had a few weeks to make the ring itself since I wanted to propose on a specific date, and he got it done well early. The ring turned out to be a knockout and everyone loves it. It's worth noting that David went above and beyond to cut costs where he could, and has been prepared to make a few tweaks for my fiance when she's finally willing to part with it for a few weeks. I'll be doing business with David again for sure.read more
Barbara O.
At David Stern Jewelers, for your information, I have experienced a most reputable, reasonable and Customer Service oriented business.I wish you the same experience.Sincerely, Barbara S. O’Connor
Artifex H.
My girlfriend and I went to see David to have a few sapphires appraised and were very surprised and overly happy with not only his honesty but also his knowledge. He definitely went above and beyond!... Would recommend him to anyone.Mikeread more