Like normal diamonds, these beauties are also found in the core of the Earth after years of pressure and heat crystalize the carbon atoms to form the stone. But the difference here is the different elements that play a role is adding colour to this diamond.
Coloured diamonds are all the rage these days with its colourless predecessor having a take a bit of a backseat with the dawn of this new trend with celebrities and collectors alike. Naturally born coloured diamonds found in the Earth are incredibly rare and very valuable. They can make you stand out almost instantly in a crowd.
A coloured diamond surpasses the colourless one in beauty and appearance and can offer stunning tones to your outfit. From a baby pink diamond to a fiery red or a calming blue, coloured diamonds are the new way of modifying your diamond collection in a chic and stylish way.
The Origins
So what makes these coloured diamonds different from the normal ones? The answer is quite simply, Nature. Like normal diamonds, these beauties are also found in the core of the Earth after years of pressure and heat crystalize the carbon atoms to form the stone. But the difference here is the different elements that play a role is adding colour to this diamond. The presence of Nitrogen gives it the majestic yellow or orange colour, while Boron imparts Blue and Hydrogen produces Violet. Natural radiation makes it green and intense pressure can turn them pink, red or even brown. So ultimately, its Mother Nature's ways that gives us these incredibly rare and gorgeous beauties.
However not all coloured diamonds are naturally born. Some diamonds today are artificially induced with colour under doctored conditions. These are not as valuable as their naturally occurring cousins and the colour tends to fade over a period of time. There are many approved methods of treating diamonds to induce colour like High Pressure, High Heat, Irradiation and Surface Coating, but always look for the lab report which will indicate whether the diamond has been treated or not, and what method has been used to alter its appearance.
The Many Moods of a Diamond
Diamonds are available in a spectrum of colours most of them naturally occurring making them a must have for any jewellery enthusiast. The main colour categories in order of rarity are: Red, Green, Purple, Orange, Pink, Blue, Yellow and Green. You could also find them in Black, White or Grey. Like gemstones, the intensity and hue of the Diamond determine its value more than the clarity. So a bright fiery and intense Red might cost you more than a paler dull one.
Dual tone diamonds are also available like a greenish blue or a yellowish green, albeit these are not as valuable as the single tone diamond. However these sparkle with their own beauty and can add more layers to your outfit. Selections of coloured diamonds are always a matter of personal choice and budget so make sure you pick just the right one for you.
Grading Coloured Diamonds
The system used to establish the different grades for coloured diamonds is done through a comparative study of the stones and printed colour charts. Based on the findings in laboratories such as the GIA or the IGI, the grades can be classified into:
- Faint
- Very Light
- Light
- Fancy Light
- Fancy
- Fancy Intense
- Fancy Vivid
- Fancy Dark
- Fancy Deep
This might seem a little technical and probably difficult to gauge when looking at coloured diamonds, but remember to always ask for help if you find yourself lost among all these terms. Couple of fast facts to remember when you're out shopping for coloured diamonds:
- Clarity isn't everything. Look for the intensity of the Colour.
- Size doesn't matter, Colour first
- A Coloured diamond only comes alive with the right settings so make sure you choose the right hues to enhance your diamond.
