Complete Guide To Colored Diamonds

Colored diamonds are among the most desirable and expensive diamonds in the market. In this article, Benjamin Khordipour and Afshin Shaddaie present a complete overview of what you’ll need to know before buying a colored diamond.

Shop our collection of colored diamonds.

Skip ahead: Red, Purple, Pink, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Brown, Gray, Black, White, and Chameleon.

What is a Colored Diamond?

A colored diamond is a natural diamond with a noticeable colored hue. Its color is usually due to trace elements or structural irregularities within its crystal lattice. There are 12 base colors in colored diamonds, each with many levels of color intensity. Additionally, most colored diamonds will be a compound of at least another secondary color.

Colored diamonds, especially those in red, blue, and pink, are extremely valuable. The intensity of the color is one of the key factors determining the value of a colored diamond, with more vivid colors generally being more valuable.

The Different Diamond Colors

The 12 base-colored diamonds are: Red, Purple, Pink, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Brown, Gray, Black, White, and Chameleon. Some are rarer than others.

See below for the complete description and shopping guide for each colored diamond.

Understanding Gradings for a Colored Diamond

Colored diamonds can be a massive investment gemstone and are, therefore, one of the most complex types of gemstones to purchase. The grading system has many moving parts, and in this section we’ll explain how each part moves.

There are 4 core variables that will all play a critical part when buying a colored diamond and another 10 sub-core variables.

1. Base Color
2. Intensity
3. Secondary Colors
4. Color Distribution

1. Base Color for Colored Diamonds

The base color for a colored diamond is the primary hue that defines the diamond’s overall color. It is the dominant color most visible to the naked eye and is the foundation for categorizing the diamond.

This base color is crucial in determining the diamond’s identity, as it directly influences its classification and market value. Each colored diamond is identified by its base color, which can range from hues like yellow, brown, and green to more rare colors such as red and orange.

The base color is not only a defining characteristic but also an essential aspect of the diamond’s appeal. In grading, gemologists focus on accurately identifying this base color to ensure the diamond is correctly classified and valued.

2. Intensity Grades of Colored Diamonds

Colored diamonds are also graded according to their intensity, which refers to the strength and depth of the color visible in the diamond. The GIA has established a widely accepted system for grading the intensity of colored diamonds, which ranges from light to deep and vivid tones. These grades help categorize diamonds based on how pronounced their color appears.

The GIA intensity scale includes nine categories: Faint, Very Light, Light, Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, Fancy Vivid, Fancy Deep, and Fancy Dark.

Each of these grades represents a specific range of color strength, with “Fancy Vivid” and “Fancy Intense” diamonds being among the most sought-after due to their vibrant color display. On the other end of the scale, “Faint” and “Very Light” diamonds display a subtler color, often appearing closer to colorless stones with a slight hint of hue.

The intensity grade is essential in determining a colored diamond’s overall value. Diamonds with more pronounced intensity grades typically command higher prices due to the rarity of strong coloration.

3. Secondary Colors in Colored Diamonds

Secondary colors in colored diamonds refer to additional hues that are present alongside the primary color. These secondary colors can significantly affect the diamond’s character and are important in its evaluation and grading. Unlike the base color, which is dominant, the secondary color adds complexity to the gemstone’s color profile, creating unique combinations that enhance or diminish its visual appeal.

In the grading system for colored diamonds, secondary colors are carefully identified and classified. For instance, a diamond may be primarily green but also display a hint of blue as a secondary color. These secondary colors make each diamond distinct, and certain combinations, such as pink with a secondary purplish hue, are considered rare and highly desirable.

The rarity and value of secondary colors vary depending on the specific combination. Some secondary hues, like purplish in pink diamonds or bluish in green diamonds, can increase the diamond’s appeal and market value. Conversely, less desirable secondary colors may lower the diamond’s worth. The grading system considers the secondary color’s strength and visibility when determining the quality and classification of the diamond, making it an integral part of the gemological evaluation process. See below.

Important Note: The second name in a colored diamond is the dominant base color. For example, a Purplish-Pink Diamond is a pink diamond with a secondary color of purple.

4. Color Distribution in Colored Diamonds

Color distribution in colored diamonds refers to how evenly or unevenly the color is spread throughout the gemstone. This characteristic plays a significant role in the overall appearance and desirability of the diamond. An “even color distribution” ensures that the hue is consistent from all viewing angles, enhancing the diamond’s visual appeal and making the color appear more vibrant and uniform. Conversely, an “uneven color distribution” can result in patches or zones of varying color intensity, which may detract from the diamond’s beauty and reduce its market value.

The manner in which color is distributed within a diamond directly impacts its rarity and price. Diamonds with flawless, uniform color distribution are rare and highly sought after, often commanding premium prices in the market.

In contrast, diamonds with noticeable color zoning or uneven distribution are less desirable because the inconsistent color can make the gemstone look less attractive. The rarity of uniformly colored diamonds contributes to their higher valuation compared to those with uneven color distribution.

In the grading system for colored diamonds, color distribution is meticulously evaluated to determine the gemstone’s quality and classification. Gemologists assess the uniformity of the color spread using specialized equipment and visual inspection techniques. Color zoning or variations are documented and factored into the diamond’s overall grade.

Other Colored Diamond Grading Aspects

In addition to the four grades above, there are other aspects to consider when shopping for a colored diamond:

1. Clarity: In colored diamonds, clarity is very important. Many consider it secondary to color, as minor inclusions may be overlooked if the color is vivid. But nonetheless, we believe that it shouldn’t be skipped over. We recommend never picking a clarity rating worse than SI2 Clarity.
2. Carat Weight: Like almost all diamonds, the larger diamonds will be much rarer. Even a slight increase in size can lead to a significant price jump, especially for rarer colors.
3. Cut: A well-executed cut can enhance the diamond’s color and brilliance, whereas a poor cut will reduce its visual effect (and also its value).
4. Origin: Origin in colored diamonds could be quite important. Diamonds from notable sources, such as the Argyle mine (for pink diamonds), can command higher prices.
5. Treatment: We strongly caution our customers to avoid purchasing treated colored diamonds.
6. Rarity of the Color: Colors like red, blue, and green are extremely rare and highly valuable, while more common colors like brown or yellow are usually far more affordable.
7. Fluorescence: Fluorescence will strongly affect the value.
8. Historical Significance: Diamonds with historical or celebrity ownership often fetch premium prices due to their unique stories and provenance.
9. Market Trends and Demand: Consumer demand and fashion trends can influence the price, with certain colors or shapes becoming more valuable due to temporary popularity.
10. Brilliance and Fire: The diamond’s ability to reflect light and display flashes of color can enhance its visual appeal, making it more desirable and valuable.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Colored Diamond

Colored diamonds are some of the most striking and rare gemstones you can own, but they come with unique considerations. We spoke to Michael Khordipour, and here’s what he believes one should have in mind before buying a colored diamond.

Pros of Colored Diamonds

• One-of-a-kind appeal. No two colored diamonds are the same. With so many hues and variations, it’s easy to find something completely unique.
• Investment potential. Because of the extreme scarcity of colored diamonds, colored diamonds often increase in value over time. They are considered by jewelry experts as one of the strongest investment opportunities in the market.
• Visual impact. The rich colors of colored diamonds make a massive statement and have tremendous visual impact.
• Cultural and historical prestige. Many colored diamonds gemstones have fascinating backstories or celebrity connections.

Cons of Colored Diamonds

• Much higher prices. Stones in colors like red, vivid blue, or vivid pink can cost significantly more than even top-quality white diamonds.
• Limited selection. Finding the exact hue and intensity you want can take time and patience. There are very few quality colored diamonds in the world.
• Complex grading. The grading process for colored diamonds is more nuanced than for white diamonds, with factors like secondary colors and distribution affecting value. Most people will need the help of an expert.

Guide for Each Diamond Color

In this section, Afshin Shaddaie will explain everything that you’ll need to know about each primary colored diamond.

Jump Ahead: Red, Purple, Pink, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Brown, Gray, Black, White, and Chameleon.

1. Red Colored Diamond

Red diamonds are the rarest colored diamonds in the world. They are also the most expensive when calculating by cost per carat. Collectors and high-end buyers seek them out for their extreme scarcity and striking beauty. Even very low carat red diamonds can fetch extraordinary prices, and anything above one carat will usually easily reach one million dollars.

When a red diamond is graded as such, they will always be placed in the Fancy Red category.

Unlike other colored diamonds that have a range of intensity grades, red diamonds are so rare (and far along the color spectrum) that they won’t have multiple levels of classification. Most red diamonds have secondary hues.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity
Red	None (Pure Red)	Approx 50 known in existence
Red	Fancy Purplish Red	Extremely Rare
Red	Fancy Brownish Red	Extremely Rare
Red	Fancy Orangy Red	Extremely Rare

Because of the high stakes, verifying authenticity with a certification is essential, ideally from the GIA. We recommend only buying red-diamonds from a trusted jeweler.

2. Purple Colored Diamond

Purple diamonds are also among the rarest and most captivating of the colored diamonds. Their scarcity makes them highly sought after by collectors, investors, and anyone looking for a truly exceptional stone. Larger sizes and vivid, saturated hues are especially valuable, and pure purple diamonds (with no secondary tones) are extremely rare and almost impossible to find.

Like other fancy-colored diamonds, purple stones are graded by color intensity, with categories such as Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Vivid. The richer and more vivid the purple, the higher the value. Secondary hues can play a major role in pricing. For example, pinkish or bluish undertones can enhance the overall color, while brownish or grayish tones usually lower the value. Clarity, cut, and carat size all matter as well, but color remains the most important factor.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
Purple	None (pure purple)	Extremely Rare	Highest value due to pure color
Purple	Pinkish	Rare	Adds warmth, increases value
Purple	Brownish	Common	Dulls the purple, lowers value
Purple	Grayish	Uncommon	Mutes the tone, reduces value
Purple	Bluish	Very Rare	Can enhance vibrancy, increases value
Purple	Reddish	Rare	Adds warmth, usually increases value

For buyers, the most desirable choice is a pure, vivid purple with no distracting secondary hues. Because these stones are so rare, sourcing one often requires patience and access to specialized collections.

3. Pink Colored Diamond

Pink diamonds are among the most coveted gemstones in the world. Collectors, investors, and high-end buyers compete for them, especially for stones with vivid or intense color grades. Larger pink diamonds are extremely rare, and their value continues to climb, a trend fueled in part by the closure of the Argyle Mine in Australia, which produced some of the finest pinks ever found.

Grading works much like with other fancy-colored diamonds, with intensity levels ranging from Fancy Light to Fancy Vivid. The deeper and richer the pink, the higher the price. Secondary hues can influence the overall look and market appeal. Purplish tones often enhance the vibrancy, while brownish or grayish undertones generally lower value. Orangish hues can add warmth and sometimes increase desirability, depending on the shade.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Desirability	Impact on Value
Pink	None (pure pink)	Very High	Commands the highest prices
Pink	Purplish	High	Enhances vibrancy, increases value
Pink	Brownish	Low	Dulls the pink, decreases value
Pink	Orangish	Medium–High	Adds warmth, can increase value
Pink	Grayish	Low	Mutes the color, lowers value
Pink	Yellowish	Variable	Can enhance or diminish appeal depending on tone

“High-Saturated Pink diamonds have a magic to them,” says Afshin Shaddaie. “The right shade catches your eyes and holds on to it.”

4. Blue Colored Diamond

Blue diamonds are prized for their striking, cool-toned beauty and extreme rarity. Their distinctive color comes from trace amounts of boron in the diamond’s crystal structure. High-quality blue diamonds, especially those with vivid or deep saturation, are among the most expensive gemstones in the world, Even small blue diamonds can command premium prices.

Like other fancy-colored diamonds, blues are graded by intensity, with Fancy Intense, Fancy Vivid, and Fancy Deep being the most valuable. Color purity plays a big role in price. While some stones display secondary hues, such as grayish or greenish tones, pure blue diamonds are especially rare and highly sought after. Clarity and cut contribute to overall beauty and value, but color remains the most important factor.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
Blue	None (pure blue)	Extremely Rare	Highest value due to pure color
Blue	Greenish	Rare	Can enhance tone, increases value
Blue	Grayish	Common	Adds a unique hue, sometimes increases value
Blue	Violetish	Very Rare	Often enhances vibrancy, increases value

5. Green Diamond

Green diamonds are some of the most intriguing stones in the colored diamond world. Their rare color comes from natural radiation exposure over millions of years, which subtly alters the crystal structure. Because of their scarcity, especially in vivid and pure shades, green diamonds are highly desirable and can command exceptional prices. Even small stones can be valuable when the color is strong and evenly distributed.

Grading works much like with other fancy-colored diamonds, with categories such as Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Vivid. The richer and more saturated the green, the higher the price. Secondary hues can affect value in both directions. Bluish tones often enhance vibrancy, while brownish or yellowish tones tend to lower the stone’s appeal.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
Green	None (pure green)	Extremely Rare	Highest value due to pure color
Green	Yellowish	Common	Dulls the green, lowers value
Green	Bluish	Rare	Often enhances vibrancy, increases value
Green	Brownish	Common	Mutes the tone, decreases value

6. Yellow Colored Diamond

Yellow diamonds (often nicknamed canary diamonds) are the most common type of fancy-colored diamond. While they’re more abundant than rare colors like blue or red, high-quality yellow diamonds are still highly desirable. The bold color comes from nitrogen present during formation, which absorbs blue light and leaves the diamond with its warm yellow tone.

These stones are graded by intensity: Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Vivid. The deeper and more saturated the yellow, the higher the value. Fancy Vivid yellow diamonds, in particular, are prized for their pure, bright color. Secondary hues can change a diamond’s look and market value. For example, orangish tones often add warmth and appeal, while brownish tones usually dull the vibrancy.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
Yellow	None (pure yellow)	Common	Highest value within yellow diamonds
Yellow	Greenish	Uncommon	Can enhance vibrancy, increases value
Yellow	Brownish	Common	Dulls color, lowers value
Yellow	Orangish	Rare	Adds warmth, can increase value

“Over the past few years, yellow diamonds have gone from an overlooked option to one of the hottest choices on the market,” says Michael Khordipour, veteran jeweler and founder of Estate Diamond Jewelry. “They offer incredible presence, and more and more clients are realizing just how beautiful they can be.”

7. Orange Colored Diamond

Orange diamonds are among the most vibrant and eye-catching of all fancy-colored diamonds. Their bold, fiery hue is the result of nitrogen in the crystal structure, similar to yellow diamonds, but with a unique arrangement that creates a deeper, orange tone. Pure orange stones (sometimes called pumpkin diamonds) are exceptionally rare and command very high prices, especially when graded as Fancy Intense or Fancy Vivid.

Even small orange diamonds can be valuable when the color is rich and evenly distributed. Secondary hues play a role in desirability: yellowish or reddish tones can add warmth and enhance the look, while brownish undertones tend to dull the vibrancy.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
Orange	None (pure orange)	Extremely Rare	Highest value due to pure color
Orange	Yellowish	Rare	Can enhance vibrancy, increases value
Orange	Brownish	Common	Dulls the color, lowers value
Orange	Reddish	Very Rare	Adds warmth, generally increases value

8. Brown Colored Diamond

Brown diamonds are among the most common of all fancy-colored diamonds, yet they have gained significant popularity recently due to their warm, earthy tones and accessibility. The trade often refers to these diamonds as “champagne diamonds” or “cognac diamonds” depending on the richness of their color. While brown diamonds are more abundant than rarer colors like pink or blue, high-quality brown diamonds with intense color saturation still command premium prices.

Brown diamonds are graded based on the intensity of their color, with categories such as Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Dark. Fancy Dark brown diamonds, known for their deep and rich hues, are considered the most valuable within this category. In addition to color, factors such as clarity, cut, and carat weight can also influence the diamond’s value. However, the intensity and quality of the brown color remain the most important aspects in determining the worth of a brown diamond.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
Brown	None (pure brown)	Common	Highest value within brown diamonds due to color purity
Brown	Yellowish	Common	Adds warmth, can enhance value
Brown	Orangish	Uncommon	Increases richness, generally increases value
Brown	Grayish	Common	Mutes the brown hue, decreases value
Brown	Greenish	Rare	Can reduce the vibrancy of brown, lowers value

When purchasing a brown diamond, buyers should prioritize stones with intense, even coloring. While secondary colors can add unique characteristics, pure brown diamonds are generally the most valuable.

9. Gray Colored Diamond

Gray diamonds may not be as famous as vivid pinks or blues, but they have a quiet sophistication that appeals to many collectors. Their cool, muted tones range from pale silver to deep charcoal, making them versatile for both classic and modern jewelry designs. While generally more affordable than rarer colors, high-quality gray diamonds with rich, even color can still command strong prices.

They’re graded by Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Dark. The darker shades typically are the most valuable. Secondary hues can change the mood of the stone. Bluish tones often enhance its coolness and appeal. Greenish undertones can add uniqueness. Yellowish tones usually warm the color and may reduce its desirability.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
Gray	None (pure gray)	Common	Highest value for gray diamonds
Gray	Bluish	Rare	Enhances cool tones, increases value
Gray	Greenish	Uncommon	Adds uniqueness, can increase value
Gray	Yellowish	Common	Warms tone, often lowers value

10. Black Colored Diamond

Black diamonds stand out for their bold, dramatic appearance. They’ve become increasingly popular in recent years, especially in modern and unconventional jewelry designs. Unlike other colored diamonds, their color doesn’t come from trace elements. Rather their color is caused by dense concentrations of inclusions, such as graphite, which make the stone opaque.

Because they don’t reflect light in the same way as transparent diamonds, black diamonds aren’t graded for color intensity like other fancy-colored stones. Instead, value is based on the uniformity of the black tone, the surface quality, and the absence of large, visible inclusions. A pure, even black color with a smooth finish is considered the most desirable.

Occasionally, black diamonds may have subtle secondary tones, like gray or brown, which can affect their appearance and market appeal. Pure black stones generally hold the highest value, while secondary hues may reduce desirability.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
Black	None (pure black)	Common	Highest value due to uniform color
Black	Grayish	Uncommon	Can dull appearance, lowers value
Black	Brownish	Common	Warms tone, generally lowers value

To learn more about black diamonds, click here.

11. White Colored Diamond

White diamonds in the fancy-colored category are nothing like the classic colorless stones graded on the D–Z scale. These rare gems have a soft, milky or opalescent appearance, created by light scattering inside the diamond due to tiny internal inclusions. This gives them a hazy, glowing quality that sets them apart from both colorless and other fancy-colored diamonds.

Because their beauty comes from this optical effect rather than a distinct hue, white diamonds aren’t graded with terms like Fancy Vivid or Fancy Intense. Instead, value is based on how smooth, even, and attractive the opalescent effect is. A consistent milky tone without distracting large inclusions is considered most desirable.

Some white diamonds show faint secondary tones (usually gray or brown) which can alter the overall look. Pure white stones with a clean, soft glow tend to command the highest prices.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
White	None (pure white)	Rare	Highest value due to pure opalescence
White	Grayish	Uncommon	Can reduce purity, lowering value
White	Brownish	Common	Warms tone, generally lowers value

12. Chameleon Colored Diamond

Chameleon diamonds are one of the most unusual and fascinating types of colored diamonds. Their defining trait is the ability to temporarily change color, most commonly shifting from greenish to yellow or brownish tones. This transformation can be triggered by exposure to heat or by keeping the diamond in darkness for an extended period.

“Even if you don’t want to buy a chameleon diamond, I would recommend taking a look at one,” says Benjamin Khordipour. “It’s a sight to behold!”

Value is determined not only by the stone’s base color and intensity but also by the strength and distinctiveness of its color-changing ability. Chameleon diamonds are typically categorized as Classic or Reverse, depending on whether they change when heated or when exposed to light. Both types are extremely rare and sought after by collectors.

Like other fancy-colored diamonds, chameleons may display secondary hues that affect their appearance and desirability. Greenish tones often enhance the chameleon effect, yellowish tones can brighten the look, and brownish tones may reduce vibrancy.

Base Color	Secondary Color	Rarity	Impact on Value
Chameleon	None (pure chameleon)	Extremely Rare	Highest value due to strong color-change effect
Chameleon	Greenish	Rare	Enhances chameleon effect, increases value
Chameleon	Yellowish	Uncommon	Can brighten appearance, maintains value
Chameleon	Brownish	Common	Dulls appearance, lowers value

When shopping for a chameleon diamond, look for stones with a clear, dramatic shift in color and minimal undesirable secondary hues. GIA certification is essential to verify both the natural origin and the authenticity of the chameleon effect.

Shop Colored Diamonds

Estate Diamond Jewelry is one of the world’s leading collectors of rare and fine stones. Contact us to see our private collection of fine color diamonds.

Notable Colored Diamonds

The largest red diamond ever is the 5.11-carat Moussaieff Red Diamond. It was discovered by a farmer in a Brazilian river bed, and the rough stone weighed just over 13 carats. The current estimated value of the diamond is more than $20m.

The Daria-i-Noor diamond weighs an estimated 182 carats and is the largest pink diamond in the world. From the same 400-carat rough stone came the 60-carat Noor-ol-Ain diamond. Both originated in India but are now part of the Iranian Crown Jewels.

The Dresden Green, weighing 41 carats and displayed in Dresden Castle, is the largest green diamond and serves as the benchmark for the color of green diamonds.

The French Blue diamond, the largest cut blue diamond ever recorded, disappeared during the French Revolution.

One of the most famous diamonds in history is almost certainly the French blue re-cut. The Hope diamond has a long history of misfortune, and the curse passes to any wearer from that moment onwards. Superstitions aside, the Hope diamond has grasped its place in history with both hands.

Many very large yellow diamonds remain uncut in their original rough state. One is in the Kremlin in Moscow, owned by the Russian government. One of the largest cut yellow diamonds is the Tiffany Yellow Diamond. The stone is on display in Tiffany & Co. in New York and weighs 128.54 carats, up from 280 carats in its original rough state.

How Are Colored Diamonds Made?

The different colors of diamonds are a result of one of three things.

For yellow, blue, or brown diamonds, the cause of the color is down to light absorption by one or more trace elements present. These impurities will absorb light in specific parts of the spectrum, reflecting the remaining light as a color other than white.

For red or pink diamonds, it is deformities within the crystal structure that causes light absorption. In this case, only light in the red part of the spectrum is reflected in such instances. Uniquely, it is irradiation during the crystal forming process which causes the green color. Some other gemstones created in this way can have their color improved by subjecting them to more radiation, but green diamonds do not undergo this process.

Contact Us

Are you looking to buy a colored diamond? Feel free to reach out to our helpful staff.

If you’re interested in buying a specific colored diamond from our private collection, please send us a message. We’ll respond within one business hour.