We do not carry diamonds with clarity less tower than I1. Learn more about Diamond Clarity in our dedicated section..
Diamonds are valued by how closely they approach colorlessness – the less color, the higher the diamond’s value. GIA’s color-grading scale for diamonds is the industry standard. Please note that fancy color diamonds are graded and valued according to a different color scale.
The scale begins with the letter D, representing colorless, and continues with increasing presence of color to the letter Z, representing noticeable color. Each letter grade has a clearly defined range of color appearance. Diamonds are color-graded by comparing them to stones of known color under controlled lighting and precise viewing conditions. Color distinctions can be very subtle, and may be invisible to the untrained eye. However, these slight differences make a very big difference in diamond quality and price.
Diamond Color Grading Chart
D
E
F
G
H-I
J-K
L-P
Q-Z
Colorless
Near-Colorless
White
Very Faint Yellow
At Diamond Traces, you'll find only the finest diamonds with color graded D-K. Diamonds graded K or better are colorless or near-colorless - their color is typically undetectable to the unaided eye. The color in diamonds graded L-Z detracts from the beauty of a diamond. It's especially noticeable if the diamond is set in platinum or white gold.
Which color should I choose?
Colorless diamonds (D-F) are valued at a much greater value than all the other hues. If cost is a significant factor in your decision-making process, we suggest that you go with a white color (G-I) or a very faint yellow (J-K) diamond. In addition, you should take into account the setting that you will be placing your diamond in. When choosing a colorless, near colorless or even a white diamond, it is highly recommended that you set your diamond in a white setting, e.g. platinum or white gold setting. These metals will intensify the brilliance of the diamond. If you are going with a J-K or darker color diamond, it is better to select a yellow gold setting for optimal brilliance. The yellow gold setting will make the diamond appear whiter than it actually is.
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