While most diamonds are valued for their lack of color, fancy colored diamonds are prized for their vivid hues. These rare gems represent less than 0.1% of all diamonds mined.
What Causes Diamond Color?
Different elements and conditions during formation create various colors:
- Yellow/Orange: Nitrogen atoms
- Blue: Boron atoms
- Pink/Red: Crystal lattice distortion
- Green: Natural radiation exposure
- Brown/Champagne: Structural irregularities
GIA Color Grading Scale
For fancy colors, GIA grades based on:
- Hue: The dominant color
- Tone: Lightness or darkness
- Saturation: Color intensity
Grades range from Faint, Very Light, Light, Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, Fancy Vivid, Fancy Deep, to Fancy Dark.
Most Valuable Colored Diamonds
Red Diamonds
The rarest of all—fewer than 30 true red diamonds are known to exist. Prices exceed $1 million per carat.
Blue Diamonds
Made famous by the Hope Diamond. Intense blue diamonds are extremely rare and valuable.
Pink Diamonds
With the Argyle mine's closure in 2020, pink diamonds have become even more sought after.
Popular Choices for Jewelry
Yellow Diamonds
The most accessible fancy color. Canary yellows offer excellent value and stunning presence.
Champagne Diamonds
Warm brown tones offer unique beauty at approachable prices.
Buying Tips
- Prioritize color intensity over clarity
- Certain cuts enhance color (radiant, cushion)
- Setting metal affects color perception
- Always request GIA certification
