Diamond Guide
When shopping for Diamonds, two essential factors to consider are colour and clarity. These aspects greatly influence a Diamond's appearance, quality, and value. This guide will help you understand the significance of Diamond colour and clarity.
Diamond Colour
Diamond colour refers to the presence or absence of colour in a diamond. The Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond colour on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Here's what you need to know about diamond colour:
D-F: Colourless
- Diamonds in this range are extremely rare and highly valuable.
- They appear icy white, allowing maximum brilliance and fire.
G-J: Near Colourless
- These Diamonds offer excellent value for those seeking nearly colourless gems.
- Often indistinguishable from D-F Diamonds when mounted in Jewellery.
K-M: Faint Yellow or Brown
- Diamonds in this range may exhibit a noticeable hint of yellow or brown.
- Their value is lower than near colourless Diamonds but can still be attractive.
N-Z: Light Yellow or Brown
- These Diamonds have more pronounced colour and are typically less desirable.
- They are less expensive but may not exhibit the same sparkle as higher-grade Diamonds.
Diamond Clarity
Diamond clarity refers to the presence of internal and external imperfections, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. The GIA grades diamond clarity on the following scale:
Flawless (F)
- These Diamonds are exceptionally rare and have no visible inclusions or blemishes under 10x magnification.
Internally Flawless (IF)
- These Diamonds have no internal inclusions but may have minor surface blemishes.
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)
- Inclusions are extremely difficult to detect even under 10x magnification.
- These Diamonds offer exceptional clarity and brilliance.
Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)
- Minor inclusions are visible under 10x magnification but often not to the naked eye.
- VS Diamonds offer excellent value for their clarity.
Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)
- Inclusions are visible under 10x magnification and may be noticeable without magnification.
- SI Diamonds can offer good value, but clarity varies.
Included (I1, I2, and I3)
- Inclusions are visible to the naked eye and may affect the Diamond's brilliance.
- I-grade Diamonds are the most budget-friendly but may have compromised appearance.