Diamond Color Scale

The diamond color scale is based on a letter grading system developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The scale ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The differences between one grade and the next are very subtle and can be difficult to discern for an untrained eye.

The color of a diamond is determined by the presence or absence of trace elements and other impurities in the crystal structure. A diamond with fewer impurities will have a more transparent and colorless appearance, while a diamond with more impurities will have a yellow or brown tint.

Diamonds in the D to F range are considered "colorless" and are the most rare and valuable. The G to J range is considered "near colorless" and is still a good choice for a high-quality diamond. The K to M range is "faint yellow" and may show a slight tint of yellow or brown. Diamonds in the N to Z range are "light yellow" and will show a noticeable color.

The color grades are as follows:

  • D, E, F: Colorless

  • G, H, I, J: Near colorless

  • K, L, M: Faint yellow

  • N, O, P, Q, R: Very light yellow

  • S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z: Light yellow or brown

It's important to note that the diamond color scale only applies to white diamonds. Fancy colored diamonds, such as pink, blue, or yellow diamonds, have their own color grading system based on different criteria.

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