Color of a Diamond
The "color" of a diamond actually refers to its level of
"yellowness." The most expensive diamond is completely colorless, which
makes it the ideal diamond. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
rates color from D, which is totally colorless) to Z, which is yellow.
In order for a diamond to be termed "colorless," the GIA indicates that
it should be a D, E, or F. Considering the scale goes from D to Z, that
would make the difference between an F and a G extremely small.
Engagement rings in the United States are generally rated from G to H.
Jewelers utilize two particular tools with which to judge the color of a
diamond. One tool is known as a "reference set" of stones. This "set" is
normally composed of cubic zirconium. The jeweler compares the stone
with a set of stones of a known color, then distinguishes the color
grading of that particular stone.
A more accurate determination can be made with the use of a colorimeter.
This is merely an electrical unit that measures the optical
characteristics of the stone and documents the color within 1/3 of a
grade. Most jewelers will "round up" the findings of a color test.
Consequently if a stone is only a little better than an F grade, it
usually becomes an E grade. (Of course, the stone would then be more
expensive to purchase.
It is essential that the diamond be unmounted when its color is judged.
In order to make the comparisons yourself, request a set of stones from
the jeweler. In order to conduct this "test" put the diamond next to the
referenced stones face down on a white sheet of paper. Then compare the
color of the stones until you obtain the best possible match You may
also ask to view a printout from the colorimeter.
When choosing the color of a diamond, probably the most significant
aspect to consider is the type of setting you desire. Consider a diamond
with a D-G range if you plan to mount the stone on a platinum or white
gold setting. With a yellow gold setting, you do not have to be as
concerned with the color grade. However, you should not obtain a diamond
lower than a J color grade, as the diamond may begin to appear yellow.
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