Lab Grown Diamonds

Most diamonds of gem quality used in jewelry vary in shade from completely colorless down to a visible yellow or brown tint. The rarest and most expensive are diamonds in the colorless range graded D, E and F on a scale that descends to Z. Diamonds with more color than Z, or in other shades such as orange, pink, blue, etc. are classified as “Fancy Colored Diamonds” and are graded on the IGI Colored Diamond Report. To determine the correct color, all submitted diamonds are compared to an internationally accepted master set of stones, the colors of which range from D, or colorless (the most sought after) to Z, the most yellow/brown – aside from “fancy” yellow or brown.

The 4Cs: Diamond Color

Diamond color is a key factor in determining a diamond’s visual appeal and value. Most of the world’s diamonds are graded on a scale of colorless to light yellow or light brown. Other hues are graded on a different scale and called Fancy Colored Diamonds.

Understanding the subtleties of diamond color can provide greater appreciation for each exquisite gem and is a fundamental choice when selecting a diamond best suited to the wearer. Whether colorless or displaying a slight tinge, the details of diamond color showcase the unique characteristics of each stone.

Most diamonds of gem quality used in jewelry vary in shade from completely colorless down to a visible yellow or brown tint. The rarest and most expensive are diamonds in the colorless range graded D, E and F on a scale that descends to Z. Diamonds with more color than Z, or in other shades such as orange, pink, blue, etc. are classified as “Fancy Colored Diamonds” and are graded on the IGI Colored Diamond Report. To determine the correct color, all submitted diamonds are compared to an internationally accepted master set of stones, the colors of which range from D, or colorless (the most sought after) to Z, the most yellow/brown – aside from “fancy” yellow or brown.

Diamond Color Charts

IGI assigns a color grade for diamonds in the D-Z range with the diamond face-down and viewed through the pavilion, allowing for precise and unbiased evaluations of diamond color. This is necessary because the size, shape, cut quality, and potential fluorescence of a diamond can influence the perceived diamond color when the stone is viewed face-up. In fact, lighting, choice of mounting, and even the hue of the viewer’s clothing can impact the perceived color. IGI employs the most neutral environment possible to ensure accurate and consistent results across the diamond color scale. This meticulous process guarantees that each diamond is correctly graded according to its specific aesthetic, offering consumers confidence in the value of their selection. Below is a brief look at the layout of the diamond color scale:

• DEF: These are the highest grades on the diamond color scale, defined as completely colorless. Ideal for buyers seeking the ultimate, clean, “icy white” brightness which has become synonymous with premier diamonds.
• GHIJ: These diamonds display near-colorless quality with minor hints of warmth, often imperceptible to the untrained eye, offering excellent value.
• KLM: Features slight warmth to the color that is noticeable but considered charming by many; suitable for those who prefer subtle personality in their diamonds.
• N-Z: Dominated by very light to light yellow or brown hues, these diamonds offer affordability, perceived character, and the opportunity for creativity in jewelry design.

Diamond Color Scale

The diamond color scale provides a consistent method for grading the color quality of diamonds, ensuring a globally recognized standard. Diamonds graded D are considered completely colorless. Diamonds graded E and F, with distinctions that are barely detectable, are also categorized in the colorless range. Many consider diamonds graded G and H on the diamond color scale to offer a great balance of quality and value, since they are closest to colorless. Diamonds graded I and J are also near-colorless, with warmth that may only be visible to experts. Moving down the diamond color scale, stones graded K and below exhibit increasingly noticeable color, which may be used to create unique and captivating pieces for wearers who appreciate a broader spectrum of hues.

• D Colored Diamonds: Unrivaled purity on the diamond color scale, and icy white brilliance for connoisseurs seeking the most pristine diamonds.
• E Colored Diamonds: Next in the colorless range, with minute color nuance compared to D, offering similar purity and affordable luxury.
• F Colored Diamonds: Still in the pure, colorless range, with nuance which barely separates it from those counterparts above.
• G Colored Diamonds: Nearest to colorless, maintaining similar appearance with extremely nuanced tone, often undetectable once mounted.
• H Colored Diamonds: Often considered an ideal balance of cost-effectiveness and visual appeal with high near-colorless quality.
• I Colored Diamonds: Show some nuanced warmth that’s low-key and gentle, suitable for strong or delicate designs in all metal colors.
• J Colored Diamonds: Retain appreciable charm with unobtrusive hue which may be perceived as a warm personality.
• K Colored Diamonds: Notable warmth that nicely engages with innovative jewelry settings.
• L Colored Diamonds: Distinct yellow tint blends with creative style, permitting bold artistic expression.
• M Colored Diamonds: Display noticeable warmth for bespoke and compelling personal pieces.
• N-Z Colored Diamonds: Evoke character and affordability, fitting non-traditional tastes and allowing imaginative possibilities.

Since diamonds form under extreme heat and pressure, internal and external characteristics are common. These characteristics help gemologists separate natural diamonds from synthetics and simulants, and identify individual stones. There are two types of clarity characteristics: inclusions and blemishes. To grade the clarity of a diamond, it is necessary to observe the number and nature of external and internal characteristics of the stone, as well as their size and position. The difference is based on their locations: inclusions are enclosed within a diamond, while blemishes are external characteristics. IGI grading reports show plotted diagrams of clarity characteristics marked in red for internal and green for external features.

Diamond Clarity Terms

While grading laboratories commonly refer to inclusions and blemishes as “clarity characteristics” there are more casual terms such as “flaws” or “imperfections.” Clarity is also associated with diamond purity in many cultures around the world.

Diamond Clarity Chart

The diamond clarity chart is a visual representation that categorizes diamonds based on their internal and external characteristics. The diamond clarity chart is indispensable for buyers and enthusiasts to identify and understand the clarity grade of their chosen gemstone, helping them to make informed decisions. The diamond clarity chart aids in differentiating gemstones on a universally recognized scale of clarity. Here are the key pointers:

• Flawless: Refers to diamonds with no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification, the pinnacle of the diamond clarity scale. Such rarity makes Flawless diamonds exceedingly desirable in the market, often commanding premium prices due to the perception of perfection and unparalleled purity on the diamond clarity scale.
• Internally Flawless: This grade implies small surface blemishes, yet no internal inclusions visible at 10x magnification. These stones possess superior clarity, and any minor surface markings can often be polished away, enhancing their overall value on the diamond clarity chart.
• VVS1 & VVS2: Very, Very Slightly included characteristics are challenging to detect even under magnification. These minute inclusions are nearly always undetectable to the naked eye, allowing these diamonds to maintain their brilliant sparkle and high standing on the diamond clarity scale.
• VS1 & VS2: Very Slightly Included; the characteristics are minor and only detectable with effort under magnification. Despite having minor inclusions and blemishes, these diamonds offer excellent value, balancing clarity and cost without compromising visual appeal.
• SI1 & SI2: Slightly Included; inclusions are noticeable under magnification, and may sometimes be visible to the naked eye. However, SI grades can still yield beautiful, perceptually clean diamonds, particularly when inclusions are strategically positioned, minimizing their impact on appearance.
• I1, I2 & I3: Included; inclusions are obvious and those in the bottom two grades may affect transparency and brilliance. While lower on the diamond clarity scale, these diamonds offer affordability, proving ideal for shoppers prioritizing carat size over perfect clarity.

How is the Grade on the Diamond Clarity Scale Determined?

In addition to analysis using 10x magnification, the diamond clarity scale relies on five key factors which are weighed along with with the visual assessment.

• Number: A greater quantity of inclusions generally reduces the clarity, lowering the perception of diamond purity as well as its position on the scale. While multiple inclusions can scatter light unfavorably, strategic cutting often mitigates this effect, preserving the diamond’s visual integrity.
• Position: Inclusions closer to the center are generally more visible which will lower the perception of diamond purity. Characteristics at the edges can be less noticeable and may possibly be obscured or covered when the stone is mounted in jewelry, minimizing its visual impact.
• Size: Larger inclusions are more apparent and impact the diamond clarity scale more significantly, lowering clarity grades. The dimensions of these inclusions (paired with color, described below) can influence how light travels through the diamond, affecting the overall sparkle and attractiveness.
• Nature: The type of inclusion affects both the perception of diamond purity and potentially its durability. For example, sparse pinpoint inclusions are considered extremely minute and benign. Other inclusions, such as feathers, may alternately weaken the stone, while dense clouds could diminish lustre by dispersing light unpredictably.
• Color: The visibility of inclusions relates to how they contrast with the rest of the stone, which is crucial in clarity grading. Transparent and translucent inclusions have less impact than opaque or dark inclusions, which stand out in relief and are far more visible.

While nature determined the color and clarity of a natural diamond, man is responsible for the cut quality which brings it to life. The planning, proportions, cutting precision, and details of the finish determine how brilliant, dispersive, and scintillating the diamond will be. If the cutting factors under man’s control are not optimized, the appearance of the diamond can be adversely affected. Diamond faceting has changed over time, particularly as lighting has evolved. There are many shapes and cutting styles, each with different visual properties. The most popular diamond in the age of modern electric lighting is the Round Brilliant.

Diamond Cut

Diamond Cut involves a series of different steps to transform raw, unrefined rough crystals into brilliant, polished diamonds which have proven to be the world’s most popular gemstone. This journey is deliberate and requires skilled artisans who plan and shape the stone’s facets with precision.

A diamond cut to top quality will display brightness, fire, contrast, and scintillation, aspects that define the very essence of its appeal. Through mastery and craftsmanship, cutters maximize the inherent beauty of each stone, using the diamond cut scale to guide their planning, working toward a finished product which will captivate viewers with its sparkle and sophistication.

Diamond Cut Chart

The diamond cut chart is essential for evaluating how well a diamond has been cut and polished. It measures the proportions that influence the stone’s performance in terms of light reflection and refraction. The diamond cut scale provides ranges based on optimum measurements and degrees of finish, helping jewellers and buyers alike understand the gem’s value and appeal.

• Ideal or Excellent: Represents the highest quality of diamond cut, allowing maximum return of light and brilliance to the viewer’s eyes. Such stones exhibit unparalleled dynamic beauty, as their proportions, symmetry, and polish stand at the pinnacle of the diamond cut scale.
• Very Good: A diamond cut that reflects and returns most of the light to the viewer’s eyes, making high quality visual impact. While slightly less dynamic than Excellent, it offers an outstanding balance of beauty and value.
• Good: This grade on the diamond cut scale represents a balance between performance and practicality. While some light might escape through the bottom as leakage, cuts ranked good may still deliver considerable brilliance and appeal.
• Fair: While lacking the intense sparkle of higher grades, stones graded fair on the diamond cut chart may be popular for those seeking affordable elegance and subtle beauty.

While nature determined the color and clarity of a natural diamond, man is responsible for the diamond cut quality which brings it to life. The planning, proportions, cutting precision, and details of the finish determine how brilliant, dispersive, and scintillating the diamond will be. If the cutting factors under man’s control are not optimized, the appearance of the diamond can be adversely affected. Diamond cut and scale have evolved over time, particularly as innovations have advanced artistry and precision in gem cutting. There are many shapes and cutting styles, each with different visual properties. The most popular diamond cut in the age of modern electric lighting is the Round Brilliant, celebrating both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics.

When a ray of light touches the surface, part of it is reflected back. This is called external refraction. The rest of the ray penetrates the stone and moves through it. This is known as refraction. The part of the ray reflected back to the surface exits, broken into spectral colors in a prism-like effect. This is known as dispersion. All of these elements contribute to the appearance of a diamond.

Elements of diamond beauty can be described as brilliance (all light returning to the eye), brightness (reflected and reflected white light) Fire (dispersed light seen as flashes of color), contrast (intense bright and dark areas created by the viewer’s presence) and scintillation or ‘sparkle’ (all these components seen as the diamond, the light source or the observer move). These qualities combine to create the life of the diamond and the way it reacts to lighting and environment.

Diamond Cut Grading

Diamond cut grading is pivotal in quantifying a diamond’s excellence. It employs the diamond cut scale to determine a stone’s craftsmanship, evaluating attributes like proportion, symmetry, and polish. A diamond graded on this scale can range from Fair to Excellent, encapsulating how adeptly a stone has been transformed from its rough origin. The finer the cut, the more vibrant the diamond will appear, as its facets work together harmoniously to enhance the overall appearance. This evaluation not only judges the craftsmanship but also translates into the visual brilliance, ultimately affecting the diamond’s market value. Essence and quality are meticulously balanced, ensuring each diamond’s cut reveals the true beauty within its structure.