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How To Invest In Colored Diamonds: Ultimate Guide

Fancy colored diamonds have long been prized for their beauty and their scarcity. It was their rarity that led them to be valued so highly by royalty. Since the 1600s fancy colored diamonds have been the exclusive realm of the sophisticated diamond connoisseur. A number of the world's most important and historic diamonds have been fancy colored, from the liquid blue of the Hope Diamond, through the lush hues of the Dresden Green, to the stark beauty of the Pink Agra. Because of their exquisite colors and due to the fact so few exist, fancy colored diamonds have always kept their value:

In 1995 the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) updated their fancy colored diamond grading system. For the first time the entire range of colors could be described and compared based on an independent evaluation. From this point the value of these diamonds has increased dramatically.

Colored Diamond Investment

Colored diamond investment.

The only truly accurate available pricing information for these diamonds is through auction house records. Invariably the prices have increased in every color grade range, and in some cases this rise has been dramatic. For example, fancy vivid blue diamonds have increased in value more than 500% on average from about $300,000 per carat to more than $1.5 million per carat.

The price of fancy pink diamonds has risen dramatically as well, from less than $50,000 per carat to more than $300,000 per carat, over the past 14 years. Today pink diamonds are viewed as solid investments given the projection that their supply is limited. As mentioned, the Argyle mine in Australia, which produces over 90% of the world's pinks, is set to run out of mineable material and cease production. At that point the number of available pink diamonds will diminish significantly, and their prices should rise accordingly.

Fancy colored diamonds stack up very favorably against investments in financial instruments or colorless diamonds.The average price of all colored diamonds sold at auction have increased in price more than triple the prices of 3 ct colorless diamonds and platinum over the same period.

At the end of the same 10 years, the average price of all colored diamonds sold at auction is more than five times the returns on the Dow Jones Industrial Average.

Only 20 diamonds have achieved prices of greater than $1,000,000 per carat. All of these occurred between 2008 and 2012, a period of great global economic upheaval, drawing the reasonable conclusion that color diamonds are viewed as a safe haven in any economic climate.

In our guide about diamond investment we shared with you all of the insights we have on the matter - the pros the cons and the risks.

The pros are portability, durability, inflation proof, psychology and expected increase in demands. The cons and risks are lack of price transparency, lack of tradability and time - diamonds should be considered for medium to long term investment.

We also emphasized all of the advantages of using colored diamonds for investment as opposed to regular colorless diamonds.

In this guide we will cover the technical aspects specifically related to investing in colored diamonds, what makes a colored diamond an investment grade diamond and how to choose this one of a kind diamond.

Investment Grade Diamonds

Investors look at the investment as an equation - on one hand what we are willing to risk and on the other hand what we expect to earn. Risks vs. potential earnings.

Investment grade diamonds are diamonds that have some unique characteristics that can overcome or at least minimize the cons and risks involved in the investment and that have better chances to increase in price, to appreciate over time. By playing on both sides of the equation we dramatically improve our chances for success.

The beautiful thing about a natural colored diamond is that by definition the starting point is much better than in regular colorless diamonds. They are rare enough due to the fact that only 0.01% of the diamonds is a natural colored diamond (1 of 10,000 diamonds) and on the other side we see more and more celebrities with colored diamonds engagement rings that are constantly increasing the awareness and demand.

Another great advantage is that unlike colorless diamonds that can be found in every shape, size and color, each colored diamond is unique. When considering the 4Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat) of diamonds and colored diamonds, naturally, an extra weight is given during the manufacturing process to the color aspect. This is why every diamond is unique. For example, a slight change in the pavilion angles and the color of the diamond will turn out differently. So when the time comes to sell, if you have a good product someone is bound to buy it because he can't find it elsewhere.

Prices Of & Choosing Colored Diamonds

Colored diamonds, as the name suggests, are diamonds that exhibit a noticeable body color. Unlike colorless diamonds, which are prized for their lack of hue, colored diamonds are valued for their unique and beautiful colors. The color of a diamond is caused by the presence of trace elements or structural defects in the crystal lattice. For example, nitrogen impurities can give diamonds a yellow or brown hue, while boron can create blue diamonds.

Colored diamonds exhibit a distinct body color that can be observed when viewed from the face-up position. Among the natural colored diamonds, brown and yellow are the most prevalent hues. Conversely, diamonds with natural body colors of pink, blue, orange, green, red, and violet are exceedingly uncommon and considered to be highly prized.

How Are Colored Diamonds Graded?

The color grading system for colored diamonds is different from that used for colorless diamonds. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses a scale that ranges from Faint to Fancy Deep, with nine color categories in total. The higher the intensity of the color, the more valuable the diamond is. Additionally, the GIA considers the hue, tone, and saturation of the color when grading colored diamonds.

What Are the Most Common Colors of Colored Diamonds?

As mentioned, brown and yellow are the most common colors of natural colored diamonds. However, diamonds can also occur in pink, blue, orange, green, red, and violet. Pink diamonds are especially rare and highly sought-after, with prices that can rival those of colorless diamonds. Blue diamonds are also highly prized and can command top prices at auction.

What Affects the Price of Colored Diamonds?

The price of a colored diamond is determined by several factors, including the intensity and rarity of the color, the size and clarity of the diamond, and the demand for the color. Generally speaking, the more intense the color and the larger the diamond, the more valuable it is. Additionally, rare colors such as pink and blue can command very high prices due to their scarcity.

How to Choose a Colored Diamond

Choosing a colored diamond can be a highly personal decision, as everyone has their own preferences when it comes to color and style. However, there are a few things to consider when selecting a colored diamond. First, think about the color you want. Do you prefer a soft pastel or a vivid, intense color? Next, consider the size and shape of the diamond. Finally, factor in your budget and determine what you can afford.

In conclusion, colored diamonds are beautiful and unique gemstones that can make a stunning addition to any jewelry collection. However, the prices of colored diamonds can be steep, and it's essential to have a good understanding of what you're looking for and what you can afford before making a purchase. By considering factors such as color, size, and budget, you can choose the perfect colored diamond to suit your style and budget.

Probably the best way for you to choose and decide will be based on the budget you have. Within this budget you can decide (might be even wise) whether to split it into 5 x $5,000 diamonds or to buy one $25,000 diamond etc.

Colored diamonds are rare but if we need to split them into pricing levels (which are naturally a result for rarity levels) we'd split them as follows:

Relatively common colored diamonds:

Brown is a relatively common color of diamond. While brown diamonds were once considered undesirable and often used for industrial purposes, they have gained popularity in recent years for their unique beauty. Brown diamonds can range in hue from light champagne to rich, chocolatey shades. They are often referred to as "champagne diamonds" or "cognac diamonds," depending on the depth of their color. Black diamonds are unique among colored diamonds in that they are opaque, rather than transparent or translucent. They are also relatively common and are often used in men's jewelry designs. Black diamonds get their color from microscopic inclusions of graphite and other minerals. The deep, rich black color can make a striking statement in jewelry designs and can be accented with white diamonds for a bold contrast.

Mid-level colored diamonds:

Yellow diamonds are next in rarity. Yellow diamonds are among the most common types of colored diamonds and are prized for their warm, sunny hues. These diamonds get their color from trace amounts of nitrogen present in the crystal structure. The intensity of the yellow color can range from faint to vivid, and prices can vary accordingly. However, because they are relatively common, yellow diamonds are often more affordable than other colors of diamonds.

High priced and rare colored diamonds:

Blue diamonds are among the rarest of all colored diamonds and are highly prized for their striking hue. The blue color is caused by the presence of boron during the diamond's formation, and the intensity of the color can range from faint to vivid. Blue diamonds are exceptionally rare, with only a handful discovered each year, and can command prices of millions of dollars at auction.

Pink diamonds are also incredibly rare and highly sought-after, with prices rivaling those of blue diamonds. The pink color is caused by structural irregularities during the diamond's formation, and the intensity of the color can range from faint to vivid. The most intense pink diamonds, known as "fancy vivid" pink diamonds, are the rarest and most valuable of all. The largest known pink diamond, the Pink Star, sold for a record-breaking $71.2 million at auction in 2017.

Red diamonds are the rarest of all colored diamonds, with only a handful known to exist in the world. The red color is caused by a distortion in the crystal lattice during the diamond's formation, and the intensity of the color can range from pinkish-red to a deep, almost purplish-red. Red diamonds are so rare that they are often sold for millions of dollars per carat, and are highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs.

Green diamonds are another rare and highly sought-after color of diamond, caused by the presence of natural radiation during the diamond's formation. The intensity of the green color can range from faint to vivid, with the most intense green diamonds known as "fancy vivid" green diamonds. Green diamonds are so rare that only a handful are discovered each year, and prices can reach millions of dollars at auction.

Orange diamonds are among the rarest of all colored diamonds and are highly prized for their unique beauty. The orange color is caused by a combination of nitrogen and structural irregularities during the diamond's formation. The intensity of the color can range from faint to vivid, with the most intense orange diamonds commanding the highest prices. In 2013, a 14.82-carat fancy vivid orange diamond sold for $35.5 million at auction, setting a new record for the most expensive orange diamond ever sold.

Please note that even though we state above that brown diamonds are relatively common, there is nothing common (or cheap) about a 10.00 carat brown diamond with VS clarity.

Also keep in mind that this classification into groups is a very general one. There are hundreds of colored diamonds colors made out of combining the base colors and each is treated differently.

The cost of a colored diamond is not solely determined by its hue; other factors come into play as well. The saturation of color and consistency of the color throughout the gemstone's face are also essential considerations. Diamonds with a single, clear hue are usually more valuable than those with other hues. In addition to the color, the size of the diamond and its cut quality are both significant factors in determining its worth, as is the case with all diamonds.

Over the last ten years, there has been an increase in availability of colored diamonds produced in laboratories or treated natural diamonds in the market. These gems are not as rare as naturally colored diamonds, and their prices are comparatively lower. If you want to ensure the authenticity of your purchase, a gemological laboratory can examine the diamond to determine whether it is naturally occurring or laboratory-grown. Moreover, they can also determine the origin of the diamond's color. These laboratory services are quite affordable compared to the overall cost of the diamond. Therefore, it is important to obtain identification and grading by a reputable laboratory before any colored diamond transaction.

The investors goal will be to find a diamond within their budget that is desired and known yet not too rare or too special so there will be a market for it.

Modified Hues & Secondary Hues

Colored diamonds are unique and fascinating gems that are highly sought after by collectors and investors alike. While the primary hue of a diamond is the most significant factor in determining its color, there are other color elements that contribute to the overall appearance of the stone. Two of these elements are modified hues and secondary hues.

Modified hues are secondary colors that affect the primary hue of a diamond. For instance, if a diamond's primary hue is pink, it can have a modified hue of brown, making the diamond appear a bit more muted in its pink coloration. The presence of modified hues can either enhance or detract from a diamond's beauty and value, depending on how well they complement the primary hue.

On the other hand, secondary hues are additional colors that appear alongside the primary hue. These colors are usually subtle and do not detract from the primary hue's dominance. For example, a diamond with a primary hue of yellow can have a secondary hue of green or orange, which will not detract from its yellow coloration.

It's important to note that not all modified or secondary hues are desirable in colored diamonds. Some modified hues can make the diamond look less vibrant, while some secondary hues can make the diamond appear muddied or less vivid. A diamond with a pure, single-hued color is generally more valuable than a diamond with secondary or modified hues.

Gemological laboratories can identify the presence of modified or secondary hues in a colored diamond. It's crucial to obtain a laboratory report from a reputable lab before purchasing a colored diamond. A laboratory report will help ensure that the diamond's color is natural, and any secondary or modified hues are accurately identified.

In conclusion, while the primary hue of a colored diamond is the most significant factor in determining its color, the presence of modified and secondary hues can also contribute to its overall beauty and value. However, it's important to ensure that any secondary or modified hues are accurately identified before making a purchase, to ensure that you are getting a high-quality, natural diamond.

Colored Diamond Investing

Besides for the general instructions regarding how to buy investment diamonds like buying only GIA certified diamonds etc., there are certain technical specifications about the diamonds themselves that we recommend ensuring they exist (or do not exist):

GIA certificate

A colored diamond report, also known as a diamond certificate, is essential for several reasons:

  1. Accurate Evaluation: The diamond report provides an objective evaluation of the diamond's physical characteristics and quality, which helps determine its value accurately. It includes information about the diamond's cut, carat weight, clarity, and color.

  2. Authenticity: A diamond report from a reputable laboratory provides evidence of the diamond's authenticity. It gives the buyer confidence in their purchase and helps prevent fraud.

  3. Insurance: In the event of loss or damage, a diamond report can help ensure that the diamond is properly valued and can be replaced with a similar stone.

  4. Historical and Research Purposes: The diamond report provides a permanent record of the diamond's physical characteristics and quality, which can be valuable for future reference.

Overall, a colored diamond report is essential for anyone buying or selling colored diamonds. It provides an objective evaluation of a diamond's physical characteristics and quality, ensures authenticity, is useful for insurance purposes, and provides a permanent record of the diamond's characteristics. Make sure you have a certificate from an independent laboratory. It is the only way to truly know what you are buying. Also, your buyer would want to see it as well.

Diamond color

When it comes to diamonds, color is one of the most important factors that determine a diamond's value. In the case of colored diamonds, color is even more critical, as the color of the diamond is the primary factor that makes it unique and valuable. We will explore the importance of color in colored diamonds and how it impacts their value.

Color in colored diamonds refers to the natural hue that the diamond displays. While white diamonds are graded on a scale of D to Z, with D being the most colorless and Z being light yellow, brown, or gray, colored diamonds are graded on a different scale. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades colored diamonds based on their hue, saturation, and tone.

The hue of a colored diamond refers to its primary color, such as yellow, pink, blue, green, or red. The saturation of a colored diamond refers to the intensity of the color, and the tone refers to the darkness or lightness of the color. The more intense the color, the more valuable the diamond.

The rarity of the diamond's color also impacts its value. For example, yellow and brown diamonds are the most common colored diamonds and are therefore less valuable than other colors. Pink, blue, green, red, and violet diamonds are extremely rare and, as a result, are much more valuable.

The color of a diamond can also be affected by modifying colors or secondary hues. Modifying colors are secondary colors that can appear in a diamond, such as gray, brown, or green. While these secondary colors can enhance the primary color, they can also detract from it. The more pure the diamond's hue, the more valuable the diamond.

It's important to note that the color of a diamond can also be altered by treatments such as irradiation or HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) treatment. While these treatments can enhance a diamond's color, they can also impact its value, as treated diamonds are typically less valuable than naturally colored diamonds.

In conclusion, color is a crucial factor when it comes to the value of colored diamonds. The hue, saturation, tone, and rarity of the diamond's color all impact its value. It's important to consider the primary color of the diamond, as well as any secondary or modifying colors when evaluating a diamond's color. When purchasing a colored diamond, always make sure to get a diamond report from a reputable laboratory to ensure the diamond's authenticity and value.

As mentioned, stronger is better! In yellow diamonds go above Fancy Yellows, try to get to Intense Yellow diamonds. In the higher colors, Fancy Light will be a good entry point. A Fancy Light Blue with obvious blue color is highly demanded because it is a lot more affordable (still not cheap) than Fancy Blue yet you still get a blue diamond. In Light and Faint colored diamonds the color is much harder to notice, especially in delicate colors like pink and green and therefore less recommended for investment.

Fluorescence

The way we see it, fluorescence in yellow diamonds that are bought for investment purposes is a taboo - don't go there even with the price reduction that comes with it. However, in other colored diamonds is quite irrelevant.

Clarity

From our experience, low clarity diamonds are harder to sell. When it comes to low clarity colored diamonds, they actually have their place, their clientele, but not as investment diamonds. Often, people really want an expensive color colored diamond like blue or pink or that they do not want to go with such a diamond beneath a certain size, this is when such diamonds come in very handy. This is also true about diamond collectors that wish to have as many colors of colored diamonds in their collection as possible and therefore willing to forget about clarity. However, since you are not a merchant holding hundreds of diamonds, the fact that these diamonds are harder to sell is a red flag.

Our recommendation - The best value and most commercial is the VS2. However we cannot always find exactly VS2 diamonds so here are the guidelines - when considering the lower and mid-range colored diamonds not going beneath VS2 (definitely not below SI1), and with the higher end diamonds not beneath SI1 or SI2 that is eye-clean.

Diamond cut

People tend to confuse between cut with shape. When talking about cut we refer to the quality of its polish (the precision in which it was cut). Does the diamond have fire and brilliance? Does it shine as it should? This is one of the most important things to check. If you buy online make sure to look at the diamond's picture and preferably also a 360 video in order to thoroughly examine it - do not rely solely on the certificate.

Diamond shape

Some shapes are more sought after than others and therefore will probably make the diamond easier to sell later on. Stay away from irregular shapes like a kite, triangular etc. In the more common shapes the ultimate is the round, and then comes the princess, cushion cut, oval and radiant, then pear shaped, heart shaped and marquise. Note that there are hardly round colored diamonds since it is harder to maintain the color in rounds (you usually "lose" one intensity degree due to the way light goes through round brilliants). So manufactures of colored diamonds would often prefer a cushion or oval. This is also why a round colored diamond will be much more expensive.

Carat weight

If you consider the lower end colored diamonds such as fancy yellows and browns then try to stay above 1.00 carat. Even there, it would be most sensible to buy diamonds weighing next to the classic weight steps as it might be more sought after later on. For example, a 1.00 carat fancy yellow diamond makes more sense than an equivalent 1.30 carat yellow diamond which will also cost you at least 30% more. Here are several interesting steps: 1.00 ct, 1.50 ct, 2.00 ct, 2.50 ct, 3.00 ct, 4.00 ct and of course the 5.00 carat diamonds.

Regarding the higher-end diamonds such as greens, blues, pinks, purples and obviously reds - people go down in weight till even 0.15 ct or less in order to be able to put their hands on, to afford, such gems.

There are amazing 0.15 ct diamonds such as Intense Pink and Vivid Blue that are worth tens of thousands of dollars per carat that are snatched almost instantly. 15 points is OK. However, if possible, our recommendation is going above 0.20-0.25 ct and if possible and you can afford it then even 0.50 ct.

Diamonds prices go up exponentially along with the weight. A 0.50 carat intense pink diamond can easily cost six times more than an equivalent 0.20 ct this is because its price per carat is much higher and the carat weight itself is 2.5 times higher - multiply the two and there is your result.

Origin Of Color In Colored Diamonds

Colored diamonds are some of the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world. Unlike traditional white diamonds, which are prized for their clarity and lack of color, colored diamonds are coveted for their rich, vibrant hues. From the fiery red of the Moussaieff Red Diamond to the striking blue of the Hope Diamond, colored diamonds have captured the imagination of gemstone enthusiasts for centuries. But what is it that gives these diamonds their unique colors? Let's take a closer look at the origin of color in colored diamonds.

Before we delve into the science behind colored diamonds, it's important to understand the basics of diamond formation. Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle, where intense heat and pressure cause carbon atoms to crystallize into the diamond structure we all know and love. Over time, these diamonds are pushed closer to the Earth's surface by volcanic activity and erosion, where they can be mined and turned into gemstones.

So how do colored diamonds get their color? The answer lies in the presence of trace elements and structural defects within the diamond crystal. Just like how adding different elements to a flame can change its color, the presence of different trace elements within a diamond can alter its color. For example, the presence of nitrogen within a diamond can give it a yellow hue, while boron can make a diamond blue. Other trace elements, such as hydrogen and nickel, can also affect a diamond's color.

In addition to trace elements, structural defects within the diamond crystal can also affect its color. When a diamond crystal is formed, it's not always perfect - there may be missing or extra carbon atoms, or other imperfections within the crystal lattice. These defects can cause light to be absorbed or reflected differently within the diamond, which can alter its color. For example, a type of structural defect called a "vacancy" can cause a diamond to appear pink.

One particularly interesting type of colored diamond is the "fancy color diamond." These diamonds have such intense and vivid hues that they're considered to be in a league of their own. Fancy color diamonds can come in just about any color of the rainbow, from bright yellow to deep green to fiery red. What makes these diamonds so special is their extreme rarity - only about 1 in every 10,000 diamonds is a fancy color diamond.

So how are fancy color diamonds formed? The answer is still somewhat of a mystery to scientists. While we know that trace elements and structural defects play a role in the formation of colored diamonds, it's not entirely clear why some diamonds develop such intense and rare hues. Some theories suggest that the intense pressure and heat deep within the Earth's mantle may play a role, while others believe that the color formation process may be influenced by the presence of other minerals (see below) in the area where the diamond was formed.

In conclusion, the origin of color in colored diamonds is a complex and fascinating topic. From the presence of trace elements to structural defects within the diamond crystal, a wide range of factors can contribute to a diamond's unique color. While much is still unknown about the formation of fancy color diamonds, one thing is for sure - these rare and beautiful gems will continue to captivate and inspire us for generations to come.

More on Mineral inclusions

Colored diamonds are some of the rarest and most prized gemstones in the world, known for their rich hues and unique characteristics. One of the factors that can influence a diamond's color and appearance is the presence of mineral inclusions. These tiny, naturally occurring minerals can have a big impact on the way a diamond looks and behaves.

First, let's define what we mean by "inclusions." In the world of gemstones, inclusions are tiny imperfections or foreign substances that are trapped inside a crystal as it grows. These inclusions can be anything from bubbles of gas or liquid to tiny mineral crystals. In some cases, inclusions can be seen with the naked eye, but in other cases, they may require magnification to be visible.

So what kinds of mineral inclusions are commonly found in colored diamonds? One of the most common is graphite, a form of carbon that is often found in the Earth's mantle where diamonds are formed. Graphite inclusions can give a diamond a grayish or blackish hue, which can be desirable in some cases (such as in the case of the famous Black Orlov diamond) but may be considered a flaw in others.

Only rare diamonds emerge in flawless condition, most of them are imperfect and contain different types of inclusions, which affect a diamond's appearance, internal structure, clarity grade and price as a result. While some diamonds are less included than others, there are heavily included stones, informally called white diamonds.

The term "white diamonds" that are heavily included with large and visible white and/or black crystals, giving them a silky and speckled appearance.

Another type of mineral inclusion found in colored diamonds is sulfide, which can give a diamond a yellow or brownish hue. Sulfides are often found in the Earth's mantle and can be introduced into the diamond during the crystallization process. Other mineral inclusions that can affect a diamond's color include hematite (which can make a diamond look pink or red) and garnet (which can give a diamond a brown or greenish hue).

While mineral inclusions can affect a diamond's appearance, they can also provide valuable clues about a diamond's history and origins. For example, the type of mineral inclusion present in a diamond can give scientists insight into the conditions that existed in the Earth's mantle when the diamond was formed. In some cases, inclusions can even provide evidence of the geological processes that took place millions of years ago.

In addition to their scientific value, mineral inclusions can also add to the beauty and uniqueness of a diamond. While some inclusions may be considered flaws, others can be seen as desirable characteristics that make a diamond one-of-a-kind. Some collectors even seek out diamonds with specific types of inclusions, such as the rare and highly sought-after "salt and pepper" diamonds that are characterized by a mix of black and white inclusions.

Mineral inclusions are a fascinating and important aspect of colored diamonds. From providing clues about a diamond's origins to adding to its beauty and value, these tiny natural substances play a significant role in the world of gemstones. Whether you're a collector or simply an admirer of these rare and beautiful gems, taking the time to learn about the role of mineral inclusions in colored diamonds can deepen your appreciation and understanding of these remarkable stones.

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Mineral Inclusions

Mineral inclusions.

White diamonds are one of the most distinctive stones in the family of fancy color diamonds. Due to their one-of-a-kind pattern and shades, these stones have been gaining popularity over the last few years.

What are white diamonds?

As mentioned, since natural diamonds form under extreme heat and pressure deep within the earth and their growth takes between one to three billion years. Only rare diamonds emerge in flawless condition.

Most of them are imperfect and contain different types of inclusions, which affect a diamond's appearance, internal structure, clarity grade and price as a result. While some diamonds are less included than others, there are heavily included stones, informally called white diamonds.

The term "white diamonds" that are heavily included with large and visible white and/or black crystals, giving them a silky and speckled appearance.

Black inclusions are usually caused by carbon deposits, often in the form of graphite and make the diamond look darker. White inclusions are caused by various flaws in the diamond's crystal structure, such as nitrogen and other impurities, that make a diamond look cloudier and hazier.

It is worth mentioning that white diamonds are fairly environment-friendly compared to flawless diamonds. The reason for this is that it takes less mining to find white diamonds than clear diamonds.

While both colorless diamonds and white diamonds are formed the same way. they differ when it comes to evaluating their quality characteristics.

Standard diamonds are graded on color, clarity, cut and carat weight; however, white diamonds are not graded and come without certification.

In general, diamonds are rarely perfect. Most of them have some level of flaws. However, in white diamonds, inclusions are a distinctive feature that gives their unique look and different sort of value that is not broken down into the diamond clarity scale.

The color of a white diamond depends on the number and type of white and black inclusions. There is an unlimited array of white diamonds, varying from nearly clear with few marks to creamy, cloudy grey, stormy, marbled and almost black stones. The more included the diamond, the darker it looks.

White diamonds cut & carat weight

While colorless diamonds are cut to maximize their brilliance and sparkle, white diamonds are cut to bring out their unique inclusions and patterns.

The sparkle in white diamonds is heavily reduced because of the high number of inclusions, which is why diamond cutters often choose fancy cuts such as hexagon, kite, coffin, triangle and others for these stones. Rough or raw white diamonds are other popular options, usually used in custom-made bohemian settings.

Since white diamonds are more common than high clarity stones, they are more affordable than traditional colorless diamonds, meaning they are easy to find in larger sizes at a good price.

Are white diamons durable?

Regardless of their fancy look, white diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs hardness scale like regular diamonds. However, because of the high number of inclusions, white diamonds can be more fragile and prone to chipping than regular ones.

In simple words, inclusions can compromise the structural integrity of the stone. However, if the diamond is treated with proper care, it will last for generations. This also means that it is not recommended to clean white diamonds in ultrasonic cleaners as ultrasound vibrations can affect the internal flaws and crack the stone.

Enhancements & Alterations Of Colored Diamonds

Colored diamonds are some of the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world. They come in a wide range of hues, from pink and blue to yellow and green, and each diamond is unique in its color and characteristics. However, not all colored diamonds are natural, and some have undergone various treatments to enhance or alter their color. In this article, we'll take a closer look at colored diamond treatments and what you should know before buying one.

Colored diamond treatments are methods used to enhance, alter or create the color of a diamond. There are various treatments used on colored diamonds, and some of the most common ones include irradiation, HPHT treatment, and coating.

Irradiation is a process where diamonds are exposed to radiation to alter their color. The process involves bombarding the diamond with high-energy particles, which causes changes to the diamond's atomic structure and can result in the creation of new colors. The irradiated diamond is then typically heat-treated to stabilize the new color.

HPHT (High-Pressure High-Temperature) treatment is another method used to alter the color of diamonds. This process involves subjecting the diamond to high pressure and high temperature in a special chamber, which causes changes in the diamond's crystal lattice and can result in the creation of new colors.

Coating is a process where a thin layer of material is applied to the surface of the diamond to enhance or alter its color. This process is often used on lower-quality diamonds to improve their appearance, but it is not a permanent treatment and can wear off over time.

It's important to note that not all colored diamonds are treated, and some of the most valuable colored diamonds are natural and untreated. When buying a colored diamond, it's essential to understand the grading process and to work with a reputable jeweler who can provide a certificate of authenticity and grading report.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is the world's foremost authority on colored diamond grading and certification. The GIA uses a grading system based on the 4Cs - Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat - to evaluate diamonds and determine their quality and value.

In conclusion, colored diamond treatments can be used to alter or enhance the color of a diamond, but it's important to understand the risks and limitations of these treatments. When buying a colored diamond, always work with a reputable jeweler and insist on a certificate of authenticity and grading report from a trusted authority like the GIA.

Understanding The Formation Of Color In Lab-Created Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more consumers seek eco-friendly and ethically sourced alternatives to traditional mined diamonds. One of the advantages of lab-grown diamonds is that they can be produced in a wide range of colors, including yellow, pink, blue, and even red. We'll take a closer look at how color is produced in lab-grown diamonds and what factors to consider when choosing a colored lab-grown diamond.

First, it's important to understand how lab-grown diamonds are made. These diamonds are produced in a laboratory setting, using advanced technology to simulate the natural process by which diamonds are formed deep within the Earth. The process involves using a small diamond seed, which is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gases. The gases are then heated to high temperatures and subjected to intense pressure, causing the carbon atoms to crystallize around the diamond seed and form a larger diamond.

The color of a lab-grown diamond is determined by the presence of trace elements and impurities within the diamond crystal. These elements can include nitrogen, boron, and hydrogen, among others. When present in certain concentrations, these elements can cause the diamond to absorb certain wavelengths of light and produce a particular color.

For example, when nitrogen is present in a lab-grown diamond in a concentration of around 100 parts per million, it can produce a yellow color. If the concentration is increased to around 500 parts per million, the diamond can produce an intense yellow or even a fancy vivid yellow color.

Similarly, boron can produce a blue color in lab-grown diamonds, while hydrogen can produce a pink or red color. The exact color produced will depend on the concentration and distribution of these elements within the diamond crystal.

When choosing a colored lab-grown diamond, there are several factors to consider. First, you'll want to consider the hue of the diamond, as well as its saturation and tone. Hue refers to the actual color of the diamond, while saturation refers to the intensity of the color, and tone refers to how light or dark the color appears.

You'll also want to consider the clarity and cut of the diamond, as these factors can greatly impact the overall appearance of the stone. Finally, it's important to work with a reputable and trustworthy jeweler who can provide a grading report and certificate of authenticity for the lab-grown diamond.

In conclusion, lab-grown diamonds offer a wide range of color options, from yellow and blue to pink and red. By understanding how color is produced in lab-grown diamonds and what factors to consider when choosing a colored stone, you can select a beautiful and unique diamond that fits your personal style and values.

Final Thoughts

Going through our guide above you are left with a limited yet wide range of possibilities that are left to your judgment.

However, whether it is better to buy a 3.00 carat Intense Yellow diamond VS2 with no fluorescence or a 0.50 carat Fancy Blue it is up to you. No one knows now which has better chances to appreciate more in few years and which will be easier to sell. But, as long as you follow our recommendations which are based on our experience, your decision will be an educated one.