Understanding Diamond Color - The Future Rocks

Understanding Diamond Color

Lab-grown diamonds can come in a broad spectrum of colors, from white to yellow, or even blue. And each variation represents a different level of desirability among buyers. With that in mind, here is a breakdown of what exactly makes up their colors.

What is diamond color?

Diamond color refers to the amount of color a lab-grown diamond contains. The more colorless a lab-grown diamond is, the higher its quality is.

 

It is pretty tricky to determine color distinctions with human eyes. Light source and background can also affect its color appearance. In a gemological laboratory, a lab-grown diamond will be color-graded against a set of master stones under controlled lighting and precise viewing positions.

Diamond color refers to the amount of color a lab-grown diamond contains. The more colorless a lab-grown diamond is, the higher its quality is.

“ Claritycut, carat, and color are all important factors in determining the value of a lab-grown diamond. These factors are also known as the 4Cs.”

How to read a diamond color scale?

Diamond Color Scale by The Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
Illustration: Gemological Institute of America​​

There are several color grading scales used by different gemological laboratories. The diamond color scale from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is one of the industry standards.

 

The diamond color scale uses letters to grade its color. The scale ranges from D to Z, with D being completely colorless and Z being completely yellow. The letters correspond to the amount of color present in it.

What Is D Color Grade?

A D color is a lab-grown diamond that is colorless and has no tint of color whatsoever. It is also the best color. You’ll find that the majority of lab-grown diamonds that are sold have a color grade of D, as it is the closest to the color of pure graphite.

What Is H Color Grade?

H-color lab-grown diamond has a very slight yellow tint. This is a color that many people pick for their engagement ring, as it is still a very clear lab-grown diamond and doesn't need to spend a ton of money on it.

What Is N-Z Color Grade?

N-Z color lab-grown diamonds have a yellow tint to them. These are not transparent, but they are not entirely opaque either. This is why these N-Z colors are less valuable than a D or H color lab-grown diamond.

Fancy colored versus colorless lab-grown diamonds

 

Lab-grown diamonds can be bought in different shades of fancy colors. It comes in various colors, including yellow, blue, pink, and red.

 

What are the best colors?

 

Explore our edits in a variety of colors and designs. When you’re looking for a colored lab-grown diamond, a yellow, blue or pink one makes for a very unique choice.