Diamonds
Gem Body Color.
Color is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting a diamond because one of the first things most people notice is whether or not the diamond is white, or, more accurately, colorless. It is also one of the most significant factors affecting value.
Color refer to the natural body color of a diamond. The finest and most expensive, "white" diamonds are absolutely colorless. Most diamonds show some trace of yellowish or brownish tint, but diamonds also occur in every color of rainbow. Natural colored diamonds are called "fancy" diamonds.
How to look at a diamond to evaluate color?
In white diamonds, color differences from one grade to the next can be very subtle, and a difference of several grades is difficult to see when a diamond is mounted. Keep in mind that it is impossible to accurately grade color in a mounted diamond. When looking at an un-mounted stone, however, even an amateur can learn to see color differences if the stone is viewed properly.
Because of diamond's high brilliance and dispersion, the color grade can not be accurately determined by looking at the stone from the top, or face-up, position. It is best to observe color by examining the stone through the pavilion with the table down. Use a flat white surface such as a white business card, or a grading trough, which can be be purchased from a jewelry supplier or the Gemological Institute of America, GIA. Next, view the stone with the pavilion side down and the culet pointing toward you.
What is diamond body color?
Gem Body Color.
Color is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting a diamond because one of the first things most people notice is whether or not the diamond is white, or, more accurately, colorless. It is also one of the most significant factors affecting value.
Color refer to the natural body color of a diamond. The finest and most expensive, "white" diamonds are absolutely colorless. Most diamonds show some trace of yellowish or brownish tint, but diamonds also occur in every color of rainbow. Natural colored diamonds are called "fancy" diamonds.
How to look at a diamond to evaluate color?
In white diamonds, color differences from one grade to the next can be very subtle, and a difference of several grades is difficult to see when a diamond is mounted. Keep in mind that it is impossible to accurately grade color in a mounted diamond. When looking at an un-mounted stone, however, even an amateur can learn to see color differences if the stone is viewed properly.
Because of diamond's high brilliance and dispersion, the color grade can not be accurately determined by looking at the stone from the top, or face-up, position. It is best to observe color by examining the stone through the pavilion with the table down. Use a flat white surface such as a white business card, or a grading trough, which can be be purchased from a jewelry supplier or the Gemological Institute of America, GIA. Next, view the stone with the pavilion side down and the culet pointing toward you.
What is diamond body color?