Grading of Fancy Colored Diamonds

Diamonds don't just come in the color white. Diamond color ranges from pale yellow to cognac to dark brown. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has developed a grading system using alphabet letters from D to Z that compares the color of a diamond to the color of pre-selected gems. Later letters in the scale indicate colors from yellow to brown. Letters from D to J are whiter.

A completely colorless diamond is most expensive and is considered to be the ideal. For higher-grade diamonds (identified by lower letters), a magnifying loupe may be used to determine the exact gradation of diamond color.

Here is the Gemological Institute of America's alphabet system for grading diamond color.

D-E-F: These stones are considered colorless and are the most valuable.

G-H-I-J: These stones are colorless to the naked eye but some tinges of color can be seen with a jeweler's loupe (magnifying glass.

K-L-M: These are the letters that identify the faintly tinted diamond. Some have a golden or yellow cast that can also appear brown or gray.

N-O-P-Q-R: These identify lightly tinted, yellowish stones. The tint can be seen with the naked eye but may not be noticeable with careful settings.

S-T-U-V-W-X-Y-Z: These are heavily tinted, progressing from yellow to cognac to brown. The color is very visible after the ring is mounted.

Diamond color is a crucial factor when it comes to evaluating the overall preciousness of a stone. Colorless diamonds are rare and expensive, while slightly colored diamonds are more affordable. Many of the diamonds in the subtle yellow shades appear white once the stone is mounted in a setting. With specialized settings, highly faceted cuts, and laboratory treatments, it is possible to transform a low-grade stone into a beautiful engagement ring suitable for any new bride.

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