Diamond white is not an actual color, but rather a descriptive term used to characterize the appearance of white diamonds. When discussing diamond color, the gemological industry uses a grading system called the GIA color scale which classifies diamonds according to their level of colorlessness. Diamonds graded in the highest color ranges of D, E, and F on this scale are considered “colorless” and exhibit little to no discernible hue face-up. However, these diamonds may still contain subtle tints of yellow or brown. The term “diamond white” refers to diamonds with exceptional whiteness that face up completely colorless.
Understanding Diamond Color
The color grading of diamonds is based on the absence of color. This means diamonds are judged based on how close they are to being completely colorless. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) color scale is the standard grading system used internationally to grade diamond body color. It consists of letter grades ranging from D (completely colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
Diamonds graded in the normal color range of G-J may face up white but contain slight hints of color when examined face-down. Diamonds graded K-Z exhibit increasingly noticeable yellow or brown hues. Only diamonds graded D-F are considered colorless, with D representing the highest rating for absence of color. However, minor differences can exist even between D-F diamonds. This is where the term “diamond white” comes into play.
What Qualifies as Diamond White?
Diamond white refers to diamonds graded in the top color range of D-F that face up completely colorless without any discernible tint of yellow or brown. While all D-F diamonds are regarded as technically colorless, some may still exhibit faint traces of color that are visible face-up. Diamond white describes those exceptional D-F diamonds that face up absolutely colorless.
Several factors determine whether a colorless diamond will qualify as diamond white:
- Cut quality – Well-cut diamonds reflect light more evenly to mask hints of color.
- Fluorescence – Strong blue fluorescence can lend a hazy whiteness.
- Source – Diamonds from some regions typically exhibit less body color.
- Clarity – Lower clarity may impart a yellowish tint.
Ideal cut, blue fluorescence, and higher clarity enhance the pure white appearance. A diamond white appearance also relies heavily on the skill of the cutter in selecting an appropriately colored rough stone and cutting the finished diamond to ideal proportions. Only a tiny fraction of all diamonds cut qualify as diamond white.
How Diamond White Compares to Other Colors
GIA color grades G and below allow for progressively more obvious yellow and brown hues. This table compares diamond white (D-F colorless) to other GIA color grades:
| GIA Grade | Appearance |
|---|---|
| D-F (Diamond White) | Colorless, no discernible hue |
| G-J | Near colorless, faint yellow/brown tint |
| K-M | Noticeable yellow/brown tint |
| N-R | Very light yellow/brown |
| S-Z | Light yellow/brown |
As this table shows, only diamonds graded D-F can achieve the optimum diamond white appearance. While G-J diamonds may face up white, they will not exhibit the same pristine whiteness as D-F diamond white stones when viewed face-up.
Rarity and Value of Diamond White
Diamond white diamonds command a premium in terms of rarity and value compared to lower color grades:
– Only about 1-2% of all diamonds mined and cut will achieve a grade of D-F. Diamond white stones within this range are even rarer.
– Retail prices jump significantly from near colorless G diamonds to colorless D-F diamonds. Within the D-F range, minute differences in whiteness dramatically impact value.
– The combination of scarcity and consumer demand results in exponentially higher prices for diamond white stones compared to similar diamonds with faint traces of color.
– Large diamond white stones over 1 carat are extraordinarily rare and expensive. A 5 carat diamond white would be considered a world-class rarity.
How to Evaluate Diamond White
It takes a skilled jeweler to identify diamond white color traits. Clients can use these tips to recognize true diamond white:
– Insist on ideal cut proportions – Precise cutting is key to maximizing brilliance and masking color. Ask for cut grades of Excellent or Ideal.
– Select mounting styles that protect from tinting – Yellow gold or finishing processes like rhodium plating can impart color artifacts. Choose platinum or white metal settings.
– Watch for fluorescence – Strong blue fluorescence adds a hazy whiteness. Make sure it is not masking an inferior color grade.
– Examine upside down – Turning the diamond upside down makes it easier to spot hints of color. Diamond white should look colorless in any position.
– Compare to known samples – Comparing diamonds side by side under controlled lighting reveals subtle color differences. A jeweler should provide genuine diamond white samples for comparison.
How to Care for Diamond White
Proper care and cleaning are important for maintaining the diamond white appearance:
– Use a gentle jewelry cleaning solution and soft bristle brush to remove dirt and oils that can collect in facets and diminish whiteness. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
– Ultrasonic or steam cleaning by a jeweler is safe and effective for deep cleaning diamond white stones.
– Take care when working with household chemicals like chlorine or acids as they can potentially alter or damage the finish.
– Store diamond white pieces separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches and wear to settings. A fabric-lined box is ideal.
With proper care, a diamond white stone will maintain exceptional brilliance and luminosity over time. Being selective and investing in rarer diamond white color means the value and enjoyment of the piece will last a lifetime.
Conclusion
Diamond white describes the most exceptional tier of colorless D-F diamonds that face up entirely white without any discernible yellow or brown hues. This elite color standard represents roughly 1-2% of diamonds cut worldwide. Diamond white’s combination of extreme rarity and ideal beauty translates to exponentially higher value compared to similar diamonds with faint traces of color. Recognizing true diamond white color requires experience and nuanced judgment. For consumers, the best way to ensure diamond white color is to purchase from a knowledgeable jeweler and insist on ideal quality in terms of cut, clarity, and absence of fluorescence. With proper verification and care, diamond white delivers an optimal blend of scintillating brilliance and status that few color grades can rival.
