DIAMOND EDUCATION · THE FOUR C'S

Understanding Diamond Colour

Diamond colour is one of the key characteristics to consider when buying diamond jewellery. The most desirable diamonds tend to be completely colourless, whereas those lower on the scale show a noticeable yellow tint.

Round brilliant diamonds shown side by side

Explained

What is Diamond Colour?

Diamond colour is measured using a letter-based grading scale developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This is the global industry standard, and any certified diamond will list its colour grade on its report.

Earlier grading systems used letters like A, AA or AAA. To avoid confusion with these older systems, the modern GIA scale begins at D, representing the highest level of colourlessness, and runs to Z.

Visual Scale Preview

Colour Visual Comparison

The GIA scale runs from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow). Select a grade to see how the tint changes across each diamond shape.

I Near Colourless

J Near Colourless

K–Z Faint to Light

Shape

Colour

*For most buyers, G–H provides the perfect balance of beauty and budget.

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Expert Advice

Selecting the Ideal Colour

To the naked eye, the difference between colourless and near colourless is often very subtle, and some shapes are more forgiving with colour. Keep this in mind before you decide how to split your budget.

01

Colourless (D–F)

Colourless diamonds are the rarest and attract the highest prices. D–E diamonds show absolutely no colour, while F diamonds may exhibit an extremely slight hint of colour.
02

Near Colourless (G–J)

Near colourless diamonds can appear colourless to the naked eye, particularly in smaller carat weights. Any faint tint is most obvious when the diamond is viewed from below.
03

Best Shapes for Hiding Colour

RoundPrincessRadiantCushion

Brilliant cuts scatter light and help disguise colour, while step-cut emerald and asscher diamonds have large, open facets that reveal even slight tints.
04

Faint to Light Colour (K–Z)

Diamonds graded K–Z have a visible yellow or brown tint, especially when viewed from the side. This range offers good value for buyers prioritising size or clarity over colour.

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