Diamond color is one of the most important factors determining the quality of all the jewels on which diamonds are used. Each of the diamond stones is available in different structures and colors. The most precious diamond color is white as well as colorless stones and yellow stones. Colorless stones are the most spotless and flawless stones. Yellow diamond stones are also very valuable because they are quite rare. The color of the diamond is important not only for the stone but also for the surroundings of the diamond ring. The diamond ring can be preferred in yellow or white gold. At this point, which color you want to choose will be closely related to the color of the diamond.
On the other hand, the clarity of a diamond is determined by looking at the so-called “fingerprints of nature”. There are traces of carbon crystal in the diamond. As these carbon crystals decrease, the clarity of the diamond will increase and this will increase the price. We recommend you to choose VS1, VS2 which is more affordable than FL-IF quality but its beauty is absolutely perfect. If you are looking for an economical alternative, if size and color are more important to you, you can also choose SI1 and SI2. It is to be noted the fact that the defects contained in this diamond are not visible.
Diamond jewelry types are quite varied. Diamond jewelry is usually preferred with a single stone of diamond with white gold. Today, there are diamond jewelry models with many different cuts. Among these models, the model that suits each style and fashion can be chosen. For example, when purchasing a diamond ring, there are more important details than the design of the ring. One of them is the solitaire ring models should use high-quality stones. Besides, one of the most important elements for all the diamonds used in jewelry is the fact that quality products are sold as certified. Certified diamonds are accepted worldwide without losing their values.
Diamond is, of course, one of the most indispensable gifts for women. The diamond which the groom, who proposes marriage, chooses with great care and with great excitement, has a beautiful and glamorous splendor that will change the couple’s whole life. Therefore, diamond models, regardless of price or model subject, are each woman’s favorite and the witness of their most special moments. However, it can be confusing in many ways to buy diamond rings, especially for the groom candidates who will make a marriage proposal. Among the many models, you may have difficulty deciding which of the models you think your future partner will like. To do this, you should first pay attention to your partner’s understanding of fashion and style. If you think it has a flamboyant style, you can search among the more round cut diamond ring models. Of course, each model is beautiful and unique. Each stone has its own unique features. Therefore, you can choose a diamond that you believe will best suit your spouse and will bring you the most auspicious step.
Beyond the unique characteristics of the diamond stone that you will buy, the color and clarity concepts are of much importance when selecting a diamond product. To have comprehensive information about the color and clarity values of diamonds and what they mean, keep reading this article.
Color of the Diamond
All diamonds are thought to be colorless, ie transparent. However, each diamond can have a different color tone. Only with the naked eye, it is not possible to understand the color of the diamonds or to determine the brightness level. Of course, color does not mean red, blue or green tones. The quality of the stone is actually the decisive factor of the colors in the diamond.
If the stone is defective or if there is pollution in the stone due to various chemicals in nature, it will have a color tone closer to yellow. In general, the colors of the diamonds have a tone scale ranging from white to yellow. If you are wondering which is the best among these tones, I can tell you that the most white color is the best color in the diamond.
How Are Colors Categorized in Diamonds?
The colors in diamonds are indicated by letters. These letters are evaluated in 5 different categories. These categories can be listed as follows:
- Extra white: D, E, F
- White: G, H, I, J
- Near white: K, L, M
- Very light yellow: N, O, P, Q, R
- Light yellow: S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z
What is the Importance of Color in Diamond?
Color is often considered the most important element in diamonds. Of course, color is an important factor in determining the value of the diamond. However, it would be wrong to state that the most important element is color. Along with the color, it is important to underline that the cut of the diamond is extremely important in determining its value. At the same time, the carat value is another important factor.
The value of the diamond decreases as the color progresses from white to yellow. In this respect, it is not possible to say that color is an insignificant element at the price point. Of course, the importance of color in determining the value of the diamond is too much. I just would like to state that it is not a decisive factor alone. The most precious diamonds are the ones closest to white. Because those whose color is close to yellow have a slightly poor quality appearance. Since there are more stains in it, the price is lower compared to white diamonds. However, it is not possible to see these spots when looking with the naked eye. Therefore every diamond appears tremendously from the outside.
Further Information About Diamond Color
The second important element when buying diamonds is the color that comes after clarity. Although it is difficult to understand the degree of diamond color when viewed with the naked eye, it is a very important factor in determining the value of the diamond. The purer the color is, the higher the price. So how can you be sure that you get a quality diamond?
- Diamond Color Scale
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) offers an advanced color scale that gives the diamond a degree of color from D to Z in order to understand the true value of the diamond. Experts examine the diamond in a suitable light environment using a 10X magnifying glass and determine the class. The diamond is then compared to master color stones with a master set with exact color values.
D on this scale is considered to be completely colorless. D colored stones are pure without tons and have the highest rating. The color Z is given to diamonds with a more pronounced yellow or brown hue.
K-Z Color Tones
Diamonds of K grade or lower have a visibly warm color. They have yellow or brown tones and are considered to be of low quality. Reputable jewelers do not use these low-colored diamonds.
G-H-I-J Gradual Color Tones
Diamonds of this class are a slightly warm color that can be seen directly compared to a high-grade diamond. They have an average of good quality.
E-F Color Tones (Colorless)
Diamonds identified by an expert to have E and F color grades are very white. These high-grade diamonds are less rare and are thought to be of excellent quality.
D Color (Absolutely Colorless)
D-colored stones are very rare. They have the best degree of color and are therefore considered extremely valuable.
Fantasy Colored Diamonds
True fantasy colored diamonds are not rated according to this scale used by the GIA. For example, natural colored diamonds in pink or blue color are graded on separate scales. As the size of the stone increases in carat weight, the color of the diamond becomes more pronounced. It is therefore preferred that the larger diamonds are relatively colorless. We recommend that diamonds of 1.00 carats and larger have a color grade of H or higher. For the best visual effect, diamonds of H or higher grade should be used on a white gold design. Yellow gold is not recommended for these colors.
This is due to the fact that the color of yellow gold, which is the warm color, will be reflected in the diamond, making it appear in a lower tone. When buying diamonds most people are looking for the perfect spot between price and quality. For the best value, I recommend you to choose from the H-G and F color category categories. Because when you and your friends look at the diamonds of this color with the naked eye, you will not see a warm color at all and you will have a white stone. You can get information about everything by contacting diamond companies to choose the best quality diamond for your budget.
Clarity of the Diamond
Clarity refers to the presence (or absence) of impurities, defects, or other defining features within a diamond. The clarity characteristics make each diamond completely separate from the others. There are no two diamonds in the same place that will have exactly the same inclusion. In large laboratories such as GIA, HRD, there are five factors used to determine the degree of clarity of any particular diamond.
Size:
How big or small is the inclusion covered by the diamond?
The number of inclusions:
How many inclusions are there for the diamond?
Location:
What is the location of the diamond inclusions? Inclusions are located under the shaved upper face, or the “heart” of the diamond affects the clarity of the diamond more than the inclusions under the shaved side faces.
Natural Feature:
Do inclusions affect the strength of the diamond? Large feathers can be dangerous depending on their size and position in the diamond.
Relief:
To what extent is inclusion visible? The location of dark inclusions is more easily determined and graded more accurately than white or light color inclusions.
GIA Clarity Degrees
The GIA provides us with a universally understandable method to define the degree of clarity of diamonds. There are five main levels of clarity that you can find in your GIA or HRD report;
FL / IF Diamonds (Flawless / Internally Flawless): There is no inclusion below 10x. No surface defects or inclusions that can be considered significant when examined under 10x. Normally, many of the defects can be remedied by a light grinding process. Very rare, beautiful and expensive diamonds.
VVS1 / VVS2 Diamonds (Very Very Slightly Included): Small inclusions that are very difficult to detect by an experienced diamond specialist under 10x magnification. VVS diamonds are extremely rare and beautiful.
VS1 / VS2 Diamonds (Very Slightly Included): They contain small inclusions in a range that is easily visible or invisible at 10x magnification. Typical VS inclusions are small crystals, hairs or discrete clouds. In rare cases, VS stones may contain a visible inclusion. They are diamonds of excellent quality.
SI1 / SI2 Diamonds (Slightly Included): Inclusions are easily visible by an expert or naked-eye under 10x magnification. They have great value.
I1 / I2 / I3 Diamonds(Included): Contains significant inclusions. They are the most suitable for use in diamond jewelry.
In fact, all diamonds have their own unique inclusions that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Clarity is proportional to the degree of such inclusions of the diamond. Inclusions are factors that greatly affect the price and beauty of the diamond. These inclusions, which are another factor you should be aware of when buying diamonds, may also have an advantage in price as long as they are not visible to the naked eye and do not affect brightness. Inclusions that cannot be seen and do not affect the brightness can bring the price of the diamond to more reasonable figures.
The position of the inclusions in the diamond is very important. Diamond cutters make great efforts to cut such inclusions to a minimum. The inclusions in the lower facet and belt are the inclusion positions that affect the value of the diamond to a minimum. Because it’s hard to notice these inclusions around here. Sometimes inclusions can be found in an area that can be seen from many angles. Such inclusions reduce the diamond value very much. Factors affecting the degree of clarity are generally as follows:
- number and size of inclusions
- whether inclusions can easily be seen with the eye (by a loop or naked eye)
- the appearance of inclusions (light or dark?)
- The nature of inclusions (whether it is a crystal inclusion or a crack at risk of progression within the stone)
- position of inclusions (under the table or in a place where the crown facets are visible around each other or in a place that can be destroyed by polishing again)
- type of inclusion (point, planar, etc.)
An untrained eye can hardly differentiate between FI, IF, VVS1 or VVS2. When you look at a VS stone that is clean with the naked eye and a stone that seems clean when looked at with a loop, you will not see a difference between the beauty of a stone. What you need to know when buying a stone with high clarity is that, although high clarity may raise prices too high, you will not notice it with the naked eye.
VS1 and VS2 stones contain inclusions that are difficult to detect even with loops. These inclusions are usually inclusions such as small crystals, feathers, and clouding. SI1 and SI2 are generally the best-selling clarity grades on the market. You can see inclusions when you look at these stones. You cannot see inclusions when viewed from above with the naked eye on SI1 diamonds. These are beautiful stones that can be bought at a reasonable price. On most SI2 diamonds you can see inclusions with the naked eye.
Diamonds with a clarity of I1, I2, and I3 should be avoided. These diamonds have inclusions that will affect the beauty and durability of the stone. Sometimes I1 and I2 stones are sold as SI1 or SI2 without a certificate. If you do the necessary research to get the diamond and examine the stone, you will not fall into such an error. Recommendation: for multi-facet cuts (such as round cuts), it is difficult to see the difference between an SI1 diamond and a diamond with higher clarity, even with a loop. Therefore, the most reasonable diamonds are SI1 and VS2. On the other hand, for Radiant and Asscher cut diamonds, I recommend you to go for VS2 clarity.
Diamond is the hardest material in the world, but not the most durable. It may break depending on use and can be scratched, albeit rarely. If all the diamonds are kept together or stored, there is a high risk of scratching each other. Therefore, it is necessary to take care that the diamond does not come into contact with another diamond. Diamonds are precious metals. Clarity assessment is made by looking at the diamond from the top, not from below. The most frequently encountered question is inclusions that are not noticed when viewed from the top but are noticed when viewed from the side.
If inclusions cannot be seen from the top but are noticed from the side angles, take care not to notice them when viewed from the top of the mount. Most people have the wrong information that it is necessary to have a high degree of clarity for maximum brightness. In most jewelers, VVS diamonds are shown to be brighter than other VS2 and SI1 diamonds. But the truth is, if the diamond is clean to the naked eye, it is the cut of the diamond that provides brightness and sparkle.
Some people insist on having an IF or VVS. Some are surprised when they learn that all diamonds contain inclusions in some way. With a magnifier that magnifies 10 times, the diamond that looks clean is perfect. If you look at these diamonds with tools that magnify 20 times or 30 times, inclusions will become visible. Our point is that you pay a very high price for inclusions that appear under the microscope. There are many techniques to make visible inclusions invisible. Our advice to you is to learn these techniques as much as possible so as not to give high sums of processed diamonds.
One of these techniques is laser drilling. The purpose of this process is to make the inclusions of diamonds difficult to sell due to dark shades less visible by lightening their color or chemically dissolving them with sulfuric or nitric acid. Another is the crack filling process. In this method, the cracks are filled with high refractive index liquid under high pressure (50 atmospheres) and high temperature (400 C). By filling the crack, the degree of clarity can increase from S1 to VS.
Which Clarity Degree Should I Choose?
It is important to select diamonds that do not have any inclusions that will affect the overall durability and beauty of the diamond. If you want to be 100% sure that your diamond is completely free of visible inclusions, we recommend that you adhere to VS2 or higher grade diamonds. If you buy SI-quality diamonds, you will get your money’s worth, but it is still best to consult with the experts before finalizing your order. In this way, you can be sure that the diamond does not contain visible inclusions.
It is also a good idea to balance the clarity of your diamond with its color. If the color class of the diamond you intend to buy is D-F, you need to focus on clarity of VS2 or higher. Diamonds combined with SI clarity in the G-I color range are of great value.
Tips for Choosing Color and Brightness in Diamonds
If you have the biggest and brightest diamond in mind before you go shopping for diamonds, you are not ready for this journey. You ask why? For example, if they don’t show you a clearer product but the one with lesser clarity, you won’t know the difference. Or when you dream of getting a princess cut model, you might be upset when you come home and realize that the model doesn’t shine that much. Better, listen to what I will say before you make your way to the jewelers:
Firstly, as an introduction to ’Diamond 101; you need to know the concepts of cutting, color, clarity, and carat. Because the diamonds all over the world are priced according to these values. For example, as the clarity decreases, the inside of the stone looks blurry. Or as the color category changes, the amount of brightness can go up to eye-catching levels. You shouldn’t believe everything they say when you’re walking around jewelers. It is also useful to choose the right place where you will shop.
White gold and platinum options are the most popular options. But white gold will lose color over time and that part will need to be replaced. However, if you choose platinum, it never gets discolored. But this time your ring will be a little heavier. In this case, the decision is up to you. If it is your first diamond, you should prefer round stones. Because you can achieve the maximum brightness only with round models due to their cut. Besides, symmetry is very important. Even if the diamond is placed slightly trapezoidal, its brightness will be significantly reduced.
One of two diamond stones of the same carat may appear larger. This is all about the cutting type of stones. Deeper and shallow cuts make the diamond lose its power to reflect light in the middle and sideways. In this case, the value of your diamond also falls. If you want to have a bigger stone at a more affordable price, you can look at alternatives under 1 carat. For example, instead of 1 carat, if you buy a 0.75-carat diamond, the difference between them for non-specialist eyes is very difficult to notice.
Diamond Care to Maintain the Color and Brightness of Your Diamond
Diamonds are not cheap jewelry that can be bought all the time. Therefore, you need to pay maximum attention to your diamonds that you buy for investment or for jewelry as rings or necklaces. Diamond is a hard structure that can only be damaged by another diamond, but in some cases, it can be damaged. Of course, it is not possible to disintegrate into two parts, but slight cracking may occur if hard pressure is applied to it. Therefore, the use of diamonds should be careful.
When buying a diamond ring, it is recommended to buy a stone array with the diamond at maximum protection. Especially for working women, it is important to buy such a ring to protect the diamond. It is also necessary to keep the diamond away from substances such as hairspray and chlorine that can be used in everyday life. These substances can accumulate on the diamond and have a negative effect on color. You should not rub your diamond with an ordinary cloth. Such scrubbing will damage the stone. A suitable cleaning technique is scrubbing using a solution of 1 teaspoon of ammonia and 6 teaspoons of water. In this way, your diamond will retain its shine and glow. In addition to cleanliness, storage conditions for diamond jewelry are also important. Our advice is to store it in a soft cloth, even in a pouch. In this way, the diamond will not have scratches due to friction with other jewels and will retain its brightness for a long time.
Regular maintenance is necessary for your diamond to continue to shine like the first day. It is important to periodically clean your jewelry to ensure that it shines as you first received. If you are wondering how to clean the diamond and you do not have information about how to protect your diamond I can give you a few extra suggestions. The most healthy method is professional care. It is in the best interest of your jewelry to check regularly to ensure that the nails that hold the diamond on your jewelry are not bent or softened. You can help your jewelry to have its old glow by following the instructions on any brand of jewelry cleaning fluid.
Another method is to care for your jewelry with warm water foamed in a small container of any mild liquid detergent. Gently brushing with a delicate toothbrush with the foam is an easy way to clean your diamonds. You can easily care for your jewelry by placing it on a strainer, rinsing it with warm water and then drying it with a paper towel or similar material. Another effective option is to keep your jewelry in a small container filled with cold water and household ammonia for 30 minutes. After removing your diamond, you can clean it by gently brushing with a small soft brush. Finally, you can finish the cleaning by dipping your diamond once more into this mixture and dry it with a paper towel.
Your jewelry must be carefully protected to allow it to be used for a lifetime. It is a great benefit to pay attention to some warnings when using your precious jewels. If you are going to deal with something that you believe will wear your jewelry, you should not use it. For example, contact with bleach will wear your jewelry and prevent it from shining with quality as before. Such materials cause the metal to become dull even if they do not damage the diamond. The diamonds, which are mixed with other jewelry in the jewelry box, may deteriorate due to friction. It is very important that they are kept in separate boxes so that they are not scratched. If you don’t have a box, you can wrap it in tissue paper one by one and store it in a small plastic bag. It is very important for your jewelry to breathe in order not to lose its vitality. In addition, it should be used regularly because it should be in contact with the skin. When not in use, you can store them by separating them with pieces of fabric and help them to be in a more humid environment.
Diamonds are the hardest substances coming out of the ground. They are uniquely resistant to damage caused by fire and scratching. Diamonds can only be cut and shaped by another diamond. They can still be damaged by a very hard blow. By taking care, you can protect your diamond for a lifetime and help it achieve its first-day glow. For example, household chemicals can cause some stains on the surface of the diamond. In such cases, the diamond will begin to lose its brightness over time. So you can have your diamonds serviced regularly and have them cleaned. This will help you maintain its brightness and radiance and minimize the damage seen. If you hit your diamond in any way with a hard object, please contact the place of purchase and have it checked for any damage. You can also have these checks done regularly so that you can continue to enjoy them for many years. Since there are always guaranteed products because they are expensive products, you can check them without much effort.
Diamonds With Best Color and Clarity That You Can Buy Online
- Dazzlingrock Collection 1.00 Carat (Ctw) Round Diamond Halo Stud Earrings with Removable Jackets (Price: $988.90)
- Diamond Jewel 14K Gold Round Diamond Stud Earrings (Price: $699.00)
- Lab-Grown IGI Certified 1 1/3 Cttw to 1 1/2 Carat Diamond Earrings For Women G-H SI 925 10K & 14K White Gold 7 Stone Diamond Stud Earrings (Women) (Price: $586.98)
- 14K Gold Round-Cut Diamond Stud Earring (1/4 – 2 Ctw, J-K Color, I2-I3 Clarity) (Price: $177.61)
- Lab-Grown Diamond Earrings 1/5 Cttw to 1 Carat Halo Diamond Earrings For Women 14K Gold Halo Diamond Stud Earrings for Women 14K Diamond Earrings (Women) (Price: $200.80)
