Diamond Color
Contrary to popular belief, the most valuable diamonds are
"COLORLESS". Diamond color is graded on a scale
ranging from D (colorless) to
Z (light yellow).
To the untrained eye, color differences within the same color
range are often subtle; however, these variations significantly
impact a diamond's value and overall quality.
In general, the closer a diamond is to colorless, the more rare
and precious it is.
Nebu Tip:
As diamond size increases, color becomes more noticeable—
especially for diamonds weighing two carats or more.
If you choose a slightly yellow diamond, pairing it with a
white gold or platinum setting can help neutralize
the yellow tones and enhance its overall appearance.
Diamond Color Scale
Hover over a grade
Diamond Color Scale:
- D–F: Colorless
- G–J: Near Colorless
- K–M: Faint Yellow
- N–R: Very Light Yellow
- S–Z: Light Yellow
Diamond Clarity
When light enters a diamond, it reflects internally and returns
to the eye as brilliance and sparkle. Natural imperfections—
known as inclusions (internal) and
blemishes (external)—can interfere with this
light performance. Fewer imperfections allow more light to pass
through, resulting in greater sparkle.
Simply put:
Fewer inclusions = Better clarity and brilliance.
Nebu Tip:
For diamonds under one carat, minor inclusions are usually not
visible to the naked eye. Rather than focusing excessively on
clarity, it is often wiser to prioritize an excellent cut to
maximize sparkle.
Diamond Clarity Scale
Hover over a grade
Diamond Clarity Scale Details:
- FL – Flawless:
No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10× magnification. Extremely rare and the highest clarity grade.
- IF – Internally Flawless:
No internal inclusions; only minor surface blemishes may be visible under 10× magnification.
- VVS1 / VVS2 – Very, Very Slightly Included:
Minute inclusions that are extremely difficult to detect under 10× magnification.
- VS1 / VS2 – Very Slightly Included:
Minor inclusions that are difficult to detect and generally invisible to the naked eye.
- SI1 / SI2 – Slightly Included:
Noticeable inclusions under 10× magnification and sometimes visible to the naked eye.
- I1 / I2 / I3 – Included:
Obvious inclusions that may impact transparency, durability, and brilliance.