Diamond Color

Understanding what diamond color means helps in choosing the right diamond. Interestingly, the diamond color evaluation of most gem-quality diamonds is based on the absence of color. A chemically pure and structurally perfect diamond has no hue, like a drop of pure water, and consequently, a higher value. GIA’s D-to-Z diamond color-grading system measures the degree of colorlessness by comparing a stone under controlled lighting and precise viewing conditions to masterstones of established color value.

Many of these diamond color distinctions are so subtle that they are invisible to the untrained eye; however, these distinctions make a very big difference in diamond quality and price. Hence, it is important to get a GIA expert’s opinion in evaluating the best color for your diamond.

Why does the GIA color grading system start at D?

Before GIA universalized the D-to-Z Color Grading Scale, there was no clear standard to define what diamond color is. A variety of other systems were used loosely, from A, B, and C (used without clear definition), to Arabic (0, 1, 2, 3) and Roman (I, II, III) numbers, to descriptive terms like “gem blue” or “blue white,” which are notorious for misinterpretation. So, the creators of the GIA Color Scale wanted to start fresh, without any association with earlier systems. Thus the GIA scale starts at the letter D. Very few people still cling to other grading systems, and no other system has the clarity and universal acceptance of the GIA scale.

Are diamonds graded as Zs considered fancy-color?

No. Naturally colored diamonds outside the normal color range are called fancy-color diamonds. The FTC provides no guidelines for the use of the term “fancy-color” in the US, but there is general agreement in the international trade about what diamond color range is customary for fancy-color diamonds. These are either yellow or brown diamonds that have more color than a Z master stone or they exhibit a color other than yellow or brown.

dmpoore
David saved me!!! I came in practically in tears thinking my new ring bought elsewhere may be a fake, and he quickly re-assured me everything was peachy keen and it had some residue all around it... that was causing the gem to look differently. He was so warm, personable, and professional. I appreciated his expertise and kindness. He truly cares for his customers. The appraisal was a fair price and provided me with lots of education on different items. He also had a beautiful selection of colored gems and unique estate items. I definitely recommend visiting for your needs.read more
David B.
Although writing a testimonial and supportive review is not something I often do, there are a handful of special moments in one's life when you encounter a service, product or company that thoroughly... exceeds your expectations. So very much so, and in every capacity, that you feel as though you'd be remiss if you didn't share your wonderful experience with the world. THIS is one of those times! I am a REAL CUSTOMER and this is my unsolicited story. I respectfully encourage you to read on. After conducting a fair amount of Due Diligence and reading the reviews about reputable Jewelers -- just as you're probably doing right now -- I can honestly say that I couldn't be more pleased with the expert guidance, creativity and fair-priced service that I received at David Stern Jewelers.My first encounter with David Stern was by telephone, and within just a couple of minutes or so, after I had explained the nature of my multiple inquiries, I was convinced that my search efforts had paid off and that I'd truly found the right guy! I made an appointment to visit with David that afternoon and was later greeted by David at the door. His outright friendliness was candidly warm, personable and very down-to-earth. This put me at ease right away and we went into his office for a personal consultation. I explained that subsequent to my Mom's recent passing, my brother and I had inherited her fairly extensive collection of all kinds of jewelry … it included a mixture of diamond pieces, white & yellow gold bracelets, necklaces, rings, pins -- both Vintage and Current -- along with many pieces of costume jewelry. This entire collection would, at a later date, be fully evaluated, assessed and render a proposed cash offer.Among other things, I first wanted to repurpose the diamonds from two of my Mother's rings to create a one-of-a-kind Engagement Ring for my very deserving Fiancée. Like a couple of old friends working together, I described to David what I was looking for and, on very short order, David came up with a basic sketch rendering. It incorporated several sentimental stones from both of my Mom's rings ... David's creative vision for this finely crafted piece was amazing!Truthfully, ten days later when I picked up the finished ring, I was blown away by its exquisite and gleaming design … so was everyone else, especially my Fiancée … when I proposed!! It was a custom creation from the ground-up that only someone with David Stern's talent could precisely fabricate. Since the purchase of that beautiful ring, I've been back to see David several times. Each time, he insists on cleaning and polishing whatever pieces of jewelry I/we happen to have (routinely Free-of-Charge) and we're always greeted like "Family". Our most recent appointment was a three-hour Cost-Free consultation to appraise and assess our Mother's entire collection of jewelry. We selected a few pieces that we wanted to keep in the family, and then decided to accept David's generously-fair Cash-Offer for the remaining pieces. I can honestly say that when it comes to Jewelry, you won't find a nicer, more-qualified, pleasant, genuine, knowledgeable, trustworthy, considerate and fair-minded person than David Stern. You simply cannot go wrong with a guy like this and I can't think of a single reason to shop for jewelry anywhere else!David B.Boca Raton, Floridaread more
Sarah R.
Excellent experience with the owner. He was humble, kind and personable. I highly recommend him to anyone looking forward buying authentic diamond or gold pieces.