Diamond Guide
The diamond industry grades colorless or white diamonds on a scale from D to Z, with D being the most colorless and valuable. As you move down the alphabet, the diamond exhibits increasing yellow or brown tints. This does only apply to colorless diamonds, colored diamonds (like yellow or blue) are graded differently.
Diamond experts determine color by comparing a diamond to a master set of stones, as the differences between grades, especially those closer together like D and G, are difficult to perceive without direct comparison.
Below you can see an example how GIA grades diamond colors from D to Z:
Completely colorless diamonds (D and E) are the rarest and most expensive. The choice of diamond color ultimately depends on your budget and desired quality, as it becomes a question of balancing colorlessness with affordability.
- D-graded diamonds are usually more for investments in diamonds.
- The difference from D to G is barely visible. But the price can differ from 20%-40%.
- H graded diamonds strike a balance between premium colorless and tinted diamonds, offering excellent value with no discernible yellow or brown tint unless directly compared to a higher grade stone.
- Diamond the grades I, J, K and L will show a slight yellow or brown tint. If graded according to the GIA color scale these diamonds are still acceptable if used with yellow or rose gold because it will make them appear less tinted.