Diamond Color
True Diamond Color is the Absence of Any Color
Understanding the significance of diamond color is crucial when selecting the right diamond. Interestingly, the color assessment of most gem-quality diamonds is based on their lack of color. A diamond that is chemically pure and structurally flawless has no hue, similar to a drop of pure water, and is thus more valuable. The GIA’s D-to-Z diamond color grading system evaluates the extent of a diamond's colorlessness by comparing it under controlled lighting and precise viewing conditions with masterstones that have a defined color value.
Many of these color differences in diamonds are so slight that they are not noticeable to an untrained eye; however, these subtle distinctions greatly influence the diamond's quality and price. Therefore, consulting a GIA expert for an evaluation of the most suitable diamond color for your needs is essential.
This short video explains the GIA color scale and how GIA classifies a diamond with a letter grade from D-to-Z by comparing it to masterstones representing the color grades on the GIA scale.
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Why does the GIA color grading system start at D?
Before the GIA introduced its D-to-Z Color Grading Scale, there was no standardized system for classifying diamond color. Previously, various inconsistent methods were used, including labels like A, B, C (without clear meanings), numerical systems like Arabic (0, 1, 2, 3) and Roman (I, II, III), and subjective descriptions such as “gem blue” or “blue white,” which often led to confusion. The GIA Color Scale was designed to be distinct and unrelated to these older systems, which is why it begins with the letter D. Today, the GIA scale is widely recognized and accepted, with few people still using alternative grading methods.
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Are diamonds graded as Zs considered fancy-color?
Naturally colored diamonds that fall outside the standard color range are referred to as fancy-color diamonds. In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) does not specify guidelines for using the term "fancy-color." However, there is a broad consensus in the global diamond trade about the color range that qualifies diamonds as fancy-color. These diamonds are either yellow or brown with more color intensity than a Z master stone or they display colors other than yellow or brown.