G color diamonds, also known as fancy yellow diamonds, are beautiful and rare colored diamonds that have become increasingly popular in recent years. But there is some debate around whether G color diamonds are ultimately good investments or if their lower color grade makes them less desirable. Here we’ll examine the pros and cons of G color diamonds to help determine if they are worth the money.
What are G Color Diamonds?
Diamond color is graded on a letter scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). G color diamonds fall right in the middle of that scale, meaning they show a light yellow tint. This tint is only visible when comparing the diamond to a better color grade, but on its own a G color will generally face up white and show no color.
G color is the most populated color category for fancy yellow diamonds, though they can range from very light to medium yellow depending on where they fall on the scale. The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) further divides G color into four sub-categories:
| GIA Color Grade | Color Description |
| G | Faint Yellow |
| GH | Very Light Yellow |
| GI | Very Light Yellow |
| GJ | Very Light Yellow |
So a G diamond could exhibit just a hint of yellow or more richness depending on its exact grading. But in general they offer an affordable way to buy a fancy color diamond that still faces up white.
The Pros of G Color Diamonds
There are several advantages that make G color diamonds a good option to consider:
– **More Affordable:** G color diamonds cost significantly less than colorless D-F diamonds. On average, G color will be priced 30-50% less than an equivalent D, E or F diamond. This makes them accessible to more buyers.
– **Appear White:** While they technically have a yellow tint, G color diamonds face up white to the naked eye in most settings. Only when compared side-by-side to a better grade would you see the subtle warmth.
– **Can Maximize Carat Size:** With G color diamonds being less expensive, you can potentially go up in carat weight while staying within budget. This lets you get the maximum sparkle for your money.
– **Elegant Warmth:** While subtle, the faint yellow tint can add an elegant richness and warmth to the diamond. This is especially appealing in antique and vintage style settings.
– **Fancy Color Potential:** G color diamonds with stronger saturation can potentially be classified as fancy light yellow diamonds if they exhibit enough color. This gives them collectability value.
– **Good Investment Potential:** Demand for yellow diamonds has risen, making G color diamonds more desirable than in the past. Their lower price point and ability to face up white gives them strong retail value.
The Cons of G Color Diamonds
However, there are also some potential downsides to be aware of with G color diamonds:
– **Lower Color Grade:** While near colorless, G color grades are considered lower on the diamond color scale. Some buyers strictly want a D-F grade for higher value and prestige.
– **Color Visible in Large Sizes:** In diamond carats over 2 ct, the yellow tint in G color diamonds can become more perceptible. This may detract for buyers who want the highest color.
– **Low Demand Historically:** G color diamonds have traditionally been less sought after in the market. Their resale value tends to be lower than more desirable colors.
– **Not Ideal for Yellow Gold:** Yellow gold settings will draw out the yellow tones in G color diamonds even more. This combination tends to look best with diamonds graded H and below.
– **Harder to Sell as Fancy Yellow:** G color diamonds at the lower end of the grade often don’t exhibit enough saturation to qualify as true fancy color. This limits their collectability for some buyers.
– **Lower Value Long Term:** G color diamonds may not increase in value over time as quickly as rarer and more desirable diamond colors and grades. Their price trajectory tends to be more uncertain.
Factors That Impact Price
Within the G color category, there are several factors that will make a significant impact on the diamond’s price:
| Factor | Effect on Price |
| Carat Weight | Higher carat weights mean much higher prices, especially in sizes over 1 carat. |
| Cut Grade | Well cut diamonds (Very Good or Excellent) command higher prices than Fair or Poor cuts. |
| Clarity | Higher clarity grades (VS or VVS) increase value compared to lower clarity diamonds. |
| Fluorescence | Medium to strong blue fluorescence can negatively impact price. |
| Fancy Yellow Potential | Diamonds exhibiting stronger yellow demand higher prices due to fancy color potential. |
So an exceptionally well cut 2 carat G VVS1 diamond would sell for far more than a poorly cut 1 carat G SI2 diamond, for example. Maximizing cut and clarity has a greater impact on the price for G color diamonds.
How G Color Diamonds are Graded
G color diamonds are given their grade through professional color assessment under controlled grading lab conditions. A trained grader views the diamond face-down against a white background and compares it to a master color set that runs from D to Z.
The diamond is observed from multiple angles under fixed lighting. The grader must identify the master color that matches the hue of the diamond as closely as possible. This process removes much of the subjectivity and gives an accurate color grade.
Careful attention is paid to the evenness of color distribution. Diamonds with uneven color zoning can be given a lower grade. Fluorescence is also noted as it can mask or enhance color appearance. While cut quality does not actually impact color, it is taken into account for face-up color observation.
Price Per Carat Comparison
To further illustrate the price impact of a G color grade, here is a comparison of average pricing across color grades for ideal cut, VVS2 clarity 1 carat diamonds:
| Color Grade | Price Per Carat |
| D | $15,000 |
| E | $12,500 |
| F | $10,000 |
| G | $7,500 |
| H | $5,000 |
| I | $3,500 |
As you move down the color scale from D to I, there is a significant discount. A G color diamond costs around 50% less than a comparable D color. This price difference becomes even wider as you go up in carat weight.
G Color in Different Settings
The visibility of color in a G color diamond can shift slightly depending on the type of setting it is placed in. Here is an overview:
– **Yellow Gold:** Will draw out warm tones the most, making the yellow hue in a G color more obvious. Lower colors like H or I recommended here.
– **White Gold/Platinum:** Will provide the most white masking effect to conceal any yellow tint. Ideal for G color to face up white.
– **Rose Gold:** The mix of yellow and red can sometimes cancel out yellowish hues. G color works well in most rose gold settings.
– **Alternative Metals:** Contemporary metals like palladium and titanium also offer a white masking effect similar to white gold or platinum.
– **Vintage/Antique Settings:** The yellow tone of G color diamonds can complement the warmer patina of these setting styles. Adds an old-world charm.
So in general, G color diamonds look best in white metal settings. But there is some flexibility to adjust based on the desired look.
How to Shop for G Color Diamonds
If you decide that a G color diamond is right for you, here are some tips on selecting the best stone:
– Review diamond certificates from labs like GIA or AGS to verify the color grade along with the 4Cs.
– Look for medium to strong blue fluorescence, which can make the diamond face up slightly whiter.
– Prioritize higher clarity and cut grades, which will enhance the overall beauty and value.
– Pick a setting in white gold or platinum to minimize the appearance of color.
– For larger diamonds over 1 carat, consider dropping down to H color or below to avoid visible warmth.
– Compare options across multiple retailers to find the best combo of quality characteristics for the price.
– Stick to reputable retailers that offer returns and upgrades to protect your investment.
Are G Color Diamonds a Good Choice?
G color diamonds offer an excellent value for buyers who still want the prestige of a near colorless diamond. Their lower price point allows you to potentially maximize the carat weight and other quality factors for your budget.
While resale value may be lower than diamonds with no detectable color, demand has risen thanks to their beautiful, subtle warmth. When set in white metal settings, G color diamonds should face up looking clean and icy white to the naked eye.
For buyers open to a hint of color, G color represents the best balance of affordability and beauty. Focus on quality cutting and clarity to bring out the most sparkle and life in your diamond. With smart selection, G color diamonds can be a good choice that doesn’t sacrifice on quality or beauty.
Conclusion
The beauty and prestige of yellow diamonds combined with their relative affordability makes G color diamonds a compelling option. They offer flexibility to maximize other factors like carat weight and clarity grade based on budget priorities. While resale value lags behind colorless diamonds, there is growing appreciation for G color diamonds in their own right. Their subtle warm tones add character that sets them apart from icy white diamonds. In the right setting, a G color diamond can be absolutely stunning while representing excellent value in its price range. For many diamond buyers, the pros outweigh the cons, making G color a smart and versatile choice.
