Acquiring An Eye For Color.

Although most gem-quality diamonds when seen alone appear to be colorless to the untrained eye, there are subtle differences in shade. Color in diamonds results from traces of other elements which mix with carbon during the diamond’s formation. Diamonds with no traces of color are extremely rare.

To determine a diamond’s true color, a diamond is view table down under pure white light. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) compares it to diamonds in a “Master Set” whose colors have been predetermined.

Colors D, E and F are essentially without color and differ more in transparency. Colors G, H, I and sometimes J, will usually show little or no color in the face-up position (as set in jewelry) for most diamond shapes. However, emerald cut diamonds, which have a large table and large, parallel, step-cut facets will more easily show color from G and above, especially in larger stones. Conversely, sometimes very well cut, round brilliant diamonds of ideal or super-ideal cut quality may show slightly less color than the grade given.