Just 1 in 10,000 diamonds has a fancy colour, making it a rare gem. With the brilliance of colourless diamonds and the added boldness of a splash of colour ranging from vibrant yellows to sweet pinks and deep blues, each fancy colour diamond has a truly unique allure.
Key Takeaways
- Fancy colour diamonds offer a unique and vibrant alternative to traditional white diamonds, appealing to those seeking a distinctive piece of jewellery.
- Fancy colour diamonds are evaluated on the intensity and hue of the colour.
- When selecting fancy colour diamond jewellery, consider both the setting and metal type to complement and enhance the diamond's natural hue.
Understanding Fancy Colour Diamonds
Grading Standards
Colourless diamonds are typically prized due to the absence of colours. With fancy colour diamonds, the opposite is true: the most valuable diamonds are those with intense colours.
Fancy colour diamonds are graded based on two main factors: colour and intensity. The combination of colour and intensity determines the overall appeal and value of the diamond.
Colour and Intensity
The diamond’s colour comprises the stone’s primary and secondary colours. For instance, a green diamond with a yellowish tint is categorised as a yellowish-green diamond.
The unique colouration in each diamond arises from specific impurities or structural anomalies. For instance, nitrogen causes yellow colours, while boron creates blue.
The strength of the diamond’s colour is determined by its intensity, which can be classified into nine intensity levels: Faint, Very Light, Light, Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, Fancy Vivid, Fancy Deep, and Fancy Dark.
Cut
Unlike traditional white diamonds where clarity might be most sought after, the cut of a diamond often takes precedence for coloured diamonds. This is because a well-crafted cut can amplify a diamond's colour, making it appear more vibrant and lively.
The World of Fancy Colour Diamonds
Fancy Yellow
Fancy yellow diamonds are among the most popular and sought-after for their cheerful appearance. While colourless diamonds with yellow tints are sometimes regarded negatively, fancy yellow diamonds are predominantly yellow.
Their stunning warm hue come from nitrogen in the diamond’s crystal structure. The more nitrogen there is, the deeper the shade of yellow. Diamonds that exhibit a pure intense or vivid yellow hue are known as Canary Diamonds.
Fancy Pink
A symbol of romance, fancy pink diamonds vary from delicate pastels to vivid pinks, making it a popular choice for engagement rings.
The exact reason why pink diamonds have their lovely shade is still unclear, though it is often attributed to distortions in the crystal lattice during formation.
Fancy Green
The second-rarest fancy colour diamond, fancy green diamonds range from light, mint green to deep, forest green.
Formed over millions of years, the green diamond’s hue comes from exposure to natural radiation that affects the crystal structure.
Fancy Blue
Known for its striking and elegant hues, the fancy blue diamond ranges from light blue to a deep, vivid blue. The most famous blue diamond in the world is the Hope Diamond with over 45 carats.
The fancy blue diamond’s mesmerising colour, resembling the ocean’s serene beauty, is formed as a result of the presence of boron in the diamond’s crystal structure.
Fancy Orange
One of the most vibrant fancy colour diamonds, fancy orange diamonds have a fiery hue that encompasses a light peach shade to a deep, intense orange.
In order for a diamond to be considered orange, it must also contain no traces of brown, which is extremely rare.
Fancy Brown
Also known as cognac diamonds or champagne diamonds, fancy brown diamonds have rich, earthy tones that range from light brown to a deep, chocolate brown.
They get their warm colour from an alteration in the diamond’s molecular structure and offer a touch of luxury that is both elegant and accessible.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you are drawn to bright and sunny yellows, romantic pinks or calming greens, the wide selection of fancy colour diamonds is sure to take your fancy, reflecting your personality and elevating your style with one-of-a-kind statement jewellery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are fancy colour diamonds?
Fancy colour diamonds are rare and valuable gems that come in a variety of colors, including yellow, pink, blue, and green. Unlike traditional white diamonds, their appeal lies in their vibrant hues.
How do you evaluate a fancy colour diamond?
Evaluating a fancy colour diamond involves assessing its colour intensity, hue, and saturation. The more vivid and pure the colour, the more valuable the diamond is considered.
Can fancy colour diamonds be used in all types of jewellery?
Yes, fancy colour diamonds can be set into a wide range of jewellery pieces, from engagement rings to necklaces, offering a unique and personalised touch.
How do I choose the right fancy colour diamond?
Choosing the right fancy colour diamond depends on personal preference for colour, budget, and your intended setting.