Complete Guide To Colored Diamonds

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

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Jump 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 seven levels of colored 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 very 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.

There are 14 variables that will all play a critical part when buying a colored diamond.

1. Base Color
2. Intensity
3. Secondary Colors
4. Color Distribution
5. The rest: Clarity, Carat Weight, Cut, Origin, Treatment, Rarity of the Color, Fluorescence, Historical Significance, Market Demand, and Brilliance.

1. Base Color for Colored Diamonds

The base color in the grading system for colored diamonds 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, blue, pink, 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.

The clarity and purity of the base color make each colored diamond unique. The grading system emphasizes the importance of this base color, as it reflects the gemstone’s natural beauty and distinctiveness. The base color is often associated with higher desirability and market value, making it a key aspect of colored diamond evaluation.

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 Gemological Institute of America (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 and striking their color appears, providing clear distinctions between diamonds with similar hues.

The GIA intensity scale includes nine key 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, natural coloration. By categorizing diamonds based on these intensity levels, the grading system provides a structured way to assess and compare the beauty and value of colored diamonds.

3. Secondary Colors in Colored Diamonds

Secondary colors in colored diamonds refer to additional hues that are present alongside the primary color, influencing the overall appearance of the diamond. 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 can either enhance or diminish its visual appeal.

In the grading system for colored diamonds, secondary colors are carefully identified and classified. These colors are less prominent than the base color but still contribute to the diamond’s overall hue. 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 slightly 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. Diamonds with a harmonious blend of color maintain their consistency regardless of the cut or angle of view. In contrast, diamonds with noticeable color zoning or uneven distribution are less desirable because the inconsistent color can make the gemstone look less attractive and lower its overall quality. 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 Grading Considerations

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

5. Clarity: In colored diamonds, clarity is important but usually secondary to color, as minor inclusions may be overlooked if the color is vivid. We recommend never picking a clarity rating worse than SI2 Clarity.
6. Carat Weight: Larger colored diamonds are rarer, and even a slight increase in size can lead to a significant price jump, especially for rarer colors.
7. Cut: A well-executed cut can enhance the diamond’s color and brilliance, whereas a poor cut might reduce its visual appeal and value. The cut is far less important than the quality of the color.
8. Origin: Due to their provenance, diamonds from notable sources, such as the Argyle mine for pink diamonds, can command higher prices.
9. Treatment: Untreated diamonds are more valuable; any enhancements or treatments, like HPHT or irradiation, usually reduce the diamond’s price. We strongly caution our customers to avoid treated diamonds.
10. Rarity of the Color: Colors like red, blue, and green are extremely rare and highly valuable, while more common colors like brown or yellow tend to be less expensive.
11. Fluorescence: Fluorescence will strongly affect the value. We recommend avoiding strong fluorescence at all costs.
12. Historical Significance: Diamonds with historical or celebrity ownership often fetch premium prices due to their unique stories and provenance.
13. 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.
14. 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

When considering the purchase of a colored diamond, there are several advantages and disadvantages to take into account. Colored diamonds are unique and striking, but they also have specific considerations that might influence your decision.

Pros:

• Uniqueness: Colored diamonds are rare and offer a wide range of hues, allowing for a truly one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry that stands out compared to traditional colorless diamonds.
• Investment Value: Due to their rarity, colored diamonds can greatly appreciate over time, making them a potentially lucrative investment. In fact, colored diamonds are considered one of the top jewelry-related investments on the market.
• Visual Appeal: The wide variety of colors and the rich, vivid hues of certain colored diamonds provide a stunning visual experience that can suit personal style preferences.
• Cultural and Historical Significance: Many colored diamonds have fascinating histories or associations with celebrities, adding a layer of prestige and storytelling to the purchase.

Cons:

• Higher Price: The rarity of certain colored diamonds, particularly in vivid and intense grades, means they are often much more expensive than their colorless counterparts.
• Limited Availability: Finding the exact color and intensity you want can be challenging due to the limited supply of naturally colored diamonds.
• Complex Grading: The grading system for colored diamonds is more complicated than for colorless diamonds, with factors like secondary hues and color distribution adding complexity to the purchase decision.

Diamond Colors Glossary

There are 12 different colored diamonds, and we’ll discuss each in this section.

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

1. Red Colored Diamond

Red diamonds are the rarest and most valuable colored diamonds in the world, making them highly sought after by collectors and serious shoppers. Due to their extreme scarcity, red diamonds can command millions of dollars per carat, with even small stones fetching significant prices. The value of red diamonds increases dramatically with carat size, and finding larger stones, even slightly above one carat, can result in astronomical prices.

When it comes to grading, red diamonds are typically classified under the “Fancy Red” category, as their rarity limits the need for multiple color-intensity grades. Unlike other colored diamonds, which can have various intensity levels, experts evaluate red diamonds more straightforwardly because of their unique status. Additionally, most red diamonds exhibit secondary hues, such as purplish or brownish tones, which can influence their value. Pure red diamonds, without any secondary hues, are extremely rare and, as a result, command the highest prices.

For serious shoppers, ensuring the authenticity of a red diamond is critical. To avoid treated stones and ensure authenticity, buying from reputable dealers and verifying the diamond’s certification is essential. A certification from a respected institution like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) guarantees that the red color is natural, providing peace of mind about the diamond’s value and quality.

2. Purple Colored Diamond

Purple diamonds are among the rarest and most sought-after colored diamonds, making them a prized catch for serious shoppers, investors, and collectors. Due to their scarcity, purple diamonds command high prices, especially when found in larger sizes or with strong, vivid hues. Pure purple diamonds are extremely rare, which significantly increases their value. As a result, the market for purple diamonds is highly competitive, with even smaller stones priced at a premium.

When it comes to grading, purple diamonds are evaluated based on the intensity of their color, just like other fancy-colored diamonds. The grading system includes categories such as Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Vivid, with the latter being the most valuable due to its more vibrant purple hue. Shoppers should also pay close attention to the stone’s clarity, cut, and overall quality, as these factors can further impact the diamond’s value. The higher the grade and intensity, the more desirable the diamond is in terms of appearance and investment potential.

Buyers should also consider the purity of the color—while some purple diamonds may exhibit secondary hues like pinkish or brownish, the most valuable stones are those with a pure, rich purple color.

3. Pink Colored Diamond

Pink diamonds are also among the most coveted diamonds in the world. Collectors and serious shoppers highly seek them out, and they often command premium prices, especially in larger sizes or stones with vivid pink hues. The Argyle Mine in Australia most famously sources pink diamonds, producing some of the finest and rarest examples. Due to their limited availability, the value of pink diamonds continues to rise, making them not only a stunning choice but usually also a solid investment.

Grading considerations for pink diamonds are essential when determining their value. Like other colored diamonds, pink diamonds are graded based on intensity, with categories such as Fancy, Fancy Light, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Vivid. The deeper and more vivid the pink color, the more valuable the stone. In addition to the primary pink hue, secondary colors can play a significant role in the diamond’s overall appearance and price. Pink diamonds may have secondary tones such as purplish, brownish, or orangish, with certain combinations like purplish-pink being highly desirable, while brownish-pink is generally less valuable.

When shopping for a pink diamond, buyers should consider the size and carat weight, as larger pink diamonds are extremely rare and significantly more expensive. As with other fancy-colored diamonds, ensuring the diamond has not been treated or enhanced to achieve its color is crucial.

4. Blue Colored Diamonds

Blue diamonds are highly desirable for serious collectors, investors, and shoppers. The distinct blue hue is typically caused by trace amounts of boron within the diamond’s crystal structure. Due to their scarcity and unique appearance, blue diamonds command high prices, especially those with intense or vivid color saturation. Even smaller blue diamonds can fetch premium prices due to their rarity and visual appeal, making them a sound investment option for buyers.

Blue diamonds, like other fancy-colored diamonds, are graded based on the intensity of their color. The most desirable blue diamonds fall into categories like Fancy Intense, Fancy Vivid, or Fancy Deep, where the color is most saturated and vibrant. These diamonds are graded for both hue and intensity, with Fancy Vivid being the most valuable due to its rich, pure color. Clarity and cut are also factors that influence the overall value and appeal of a blue diamond, although color remains the dominant factor in the diamond’s valuation.

Buyers of blue diamonds should consider the color’s intensity and purity when purchasing. While some blue diamonds may have secondary hues, pure blue stones, especially in vivid grades, are the most valuable. A certification from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as GIA, is essential to verify the diamond’s color and ensure its authenticity.

5. Green Colored Diamonds

Green diamonds are one of the most intriguing fancy-colored diamonds and have carved out a niche among colored diamond collectors. Their unique color is caused by exposure to natural radiation during the diamond’s formation, which alters the stone’s crystal lattice. This process makes green diamonds incredibly rare, and as a result, they often command premium prices, especially for stones with vivid and intense colors. Even smaller green diamonds can be quite valuable due to their scarcity and the rarity of pure green hues.

Green diamonds are graded based on the intensity of their greenish color. The grading categories include Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Vivid, with Fancy Vivid green diamonds being the most valuable due to their saturated color. Shoppers should also pay close attention to the stone’s cut, clarity, and overall quality, as these factors can further influence the diamond’s value. In addition to the base color, green diamonds usually display secondary hues that may enhance or reduce their overall appeal. See the table below.

Buyers of green diamonds should prioritize the purity and intensity of the green color. While secondary hues can influence appearance, pure green diamonds hold the highest value, especially in vivid grades.

6. Yellow Colored Diamonds

Yellow diamonds, often referred to as “canary diamonds” when found in their most intense shades, are the most common among fancy-colored diamonds. Despite their relative abundance compared to other colored diamonds, high-quality yellow diamonds, especially those with vivid hues, are highly sought after by collectors and serious shoppers. The vibrant yellow color in these diamonds is caused by the presence of nitrogen during their formation. Due to their bold color and increasing popularity, yellow diamonds can command significant prices, particularly for stones with higher intensity levels.

Yellow diamonds are graded using the same system as fancy-colored diamonds, with categories such as Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Vivid. Fancy Vivid yellow diamonds, known for their rich and pure yellow color, are the most valuable. Factors such as clarity, cut, and carat weight also play a role in determining the value of a yellow diamond, but color intensity remains the most important aspect. A well-cut diamond that showcases the vibrant yellow hue will generally be more desirable and valuable.

Buyers should prioritize the purity and intensity of the yellow color when selecting a yellow diamond. While secondary hues can affect the diamond’s appeal, pure yellow diamonds with a vivid grade are the most valuable.

7. Orange Colored Diamonds

Orange diamonds are considered the most striking of all fancy-colored diamonds, making them highly sought after by shoppers. The vibrant orange hue in these diamonds is caused by the presence of nitrogen during their formation, similar to yellow diamonds. Pure orange diamonds, also known as “pumpkin diamonds,” are exceptionally rare and can command very high prices, particularly those with intense or vivid color saturation. Due to their scarcity, even smaller orange diamonds are considered valuable, especially if they exhibit strong color.

Orange diamonds are graded based on the intensity of their color, using categories such as Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Vivid. The most valuable orange diamonds are in the Fancy Vivid category, where the color is deepest and most saturated. When shopping for an orange diamond, it is essential to consider factors such as clarity and cut, although color remains the most crucial element in determining value. A well-cut diamond that showcases the full vibrancy of the orange color will typically be more desirable and valuable.

Buyers should prioritize stones with the purest and most intense orange hues when purchasing an orange diamond. Secondary colors like yellowish or reddish can enhance the appearance, but brownish tones often reduce the value.

8. Brown Colored Diamonds

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.

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 Diamonds

Gray diamonds, while not as widely known as other colored diamonds, offer a unique and sophisticated appeal. These diamonds are typically less expensive than their more vibrant counterparts, such as blue or pink diamonds, but they can still command significant prices, especially if they have a rich, even color or rare secondary hues. The allure of gray diamonds lies in their versatility and the wide range of shades they can exhibit, from light silvery tones to deep, dark grays.

Gray diamonds are graded based on their color intensity, with categories such as Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, and Fancy Dark. Fancy Dark gray diamonds, deep and rich tones, are the most valuable in this color category.

10. Black Colored Diamonds

Black diamonds, with their bold and striking appearance, are unique among fancy-colored diamonds. They have gained popularity in recent years for their dramatic look and are often used in modern, unconventional jewelry designs. Unlike other colored diamonds, black diamonds do not owe their color to impurities or trace elements; instead, their color results from numerous inclusions of graphite or other minerals, which make the stone opaque. Black diamonds are typically more affordable than rarer colored diamonds like pink or blue, but their distinctive appearance makes them highly desirable for collectors and fashion-forward buyers.

When it comes to grading black diamonds, the focus is more on the overall appearance and surface quality than the color intensity, as black diamonds are naturally opaque and do not reflect light in the same way as other diamonds. Factors such as the evenness of the black color, surface finish, and the absence of large visible inclusions contribute to the value of a black diamond. Unlike other fancy diamonds, black diamonds are typically not graded using the traditional Fancy Light, Fancy Intense, or Fancy Vivid scale, as their color is uniform.

Black diamonds usually do not exhibit secondary colors, but on rare occasions, they may have subtle overtones, such as gray or brown, which can affect their overall look and value. A pure black diamond with an even tone is considered the most valuable, while diamonds with noticeable secondary hues may be less desirable.

To learn more about black diamonds, click here.

11. White Colored Diamonds

White diamonds, often referred to as “opalescent” or “milky” diamonds, are a rare and unique category of fancy-colored diamonds. Unlike the traditional colorless diamonds graded on the D-Z scale, white diamonds have a distinct milky or opalescent appearance caused by the scattering of light due to internal inclusions. This scattering gives the diamond its distinctive hazy or translucent look, setting it apart from both colorless and other fancy-colored diamonds.

When it comes to grading, white diamonds are not assessed using the typical Fancy Light, Fancy Intense, or Fancy Vivid scale, as their value is based more on the consistency and attractiveness of the opalescent effect rather than the intensity of color. The focus is placed on the evenness of the milky appearance and the overall quality of the diamond’s clarity and cut. A white diamond with a smooth and consistent opalescence, free from distracting large inclusions, will typically be more valuable.

White diamonds generally do not exhibit strong secondary hues, but in some cases, they may have slight undertones of gray or brown, which can affect their overall appeal and value. Pure white diamonds with a clean, milky appearance are the most valuable, while those with visible secondary hues may be less desirable.

12. Chameleon Diamonds

Chameleon diamonds are a fascinating and rare type of colored diamond. This unique diamond can temporarily change color, typically from greenish to yellow or brownish tones, when exposed to heat or kept in darkness for an extended period. This extraordinary color-changing ability makes chameleon diamonds highly sought after by collectors.

When grading chameleon diamonds, the color intensity and the stone’s ability to change hues are important factors. Chameleon diamonds are prized for their transitional color properties rather than just their static color, unlike other fancy-colored diamonds. Although typically graded for the intensity of their base color, like Fancy Light or Fancy Dark, their chameleon effect adds an extra layer of rarity and desirability. Chameleon diamonds are often categorized as either “Classic” or “Reverse” depending on whether the color change is triggered by heat or light exposure, with both types being highly valued.

When purchasing a chameleon diamond, buyers should prioritize stones with a strong and distinct color-changing ability and minimal undesirable secondary hues. Certification from a reputable gemological institution, such as GIA, is essential to verify the diamond’s authenticity and natural chameleon properties.

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.

Here are a few of the colored diamonds that are already set into a mounting.

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.

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