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Choosing the Perfect Diamond Colour for your Engagement Ring

Choosing an engagement ring is a special time in your life, especially when you're looking for something unique. One of the key aspects to consider is the diamond's colour. Here's a guide to help you understand diamond colour grading and how to choose the perfect diamond for your unusual engagement ring.

Understanding Diamond Colour Grading

The GIA Colour Scale Explained

The Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) is the largest diamond grading laboratory in the world, and also the most trusted. THE GIA grades diamonds on a colour scale from D to Z. D is the highest grade, representing a completely colourless diamond, while Z has a noticeable yellow or brown tint. Understanding this scale helps you make an informed decision.

It is important to note that not all diamond certificates are of the same standard. I would choose a diamond that is certificated by GIA or IGI as they are trustworthy and consistent with their grading. You might however have seen other diamonds at a cheaper price during your search that have been certificated by another laboratory such as EGL. Other certificates unfortunately quite often do not have the same strict standards and will grade a diamond to be higher in quality than it actually is. Always be mindful of a cheap diamond and ask about the certificate. If it’s a certificate that you haven’t heard of before it might be a sign that the diamond isn’t actually as good as it appears on paper.

The White Diamond Scale

Ideal Diamond Colours for White Diamonds

Why D to G Colour Diamonds Are Ideal

If you're looking for a classic white diamond, aim for a D to G colour grade. These diamonds appear colourless to the naked eye and offer exceptional brilliance. They're perfect for those who want a bright, white stone. 

D colour diamonds are extremely rare, representing a very small percentage of all natural diamonds. It is estimated that only about 1-2% of natural diamonds are classified as D colour, which is the highest grade on the diamond colour scale, indicating a completely colourless stone. This rarity contributes to their high value and desirability. 
Because of this a D colour diamond commands a premium price. If you’d like a bright white diamond whilst getting the best value for money you could opt for an E or F coloured diamond for a stunning stone which virtually indistinguishable from a D coloured diamond to the untrained eye.

Balancing Quality and Budget with H Colour Diamonds

For those with a smaller budget, H colour diamonds are a great option. They are nearly colourless and much more affordable. Just ensure they don't have a strong yellow or brown tint, which can affect their appearance. A H coloured diamond when cut well, will still look like a beautiful white diamond and is higher is colour than the majority of high street jewellers’ diamonds. You might be shocked to know that some of the best know UK high street jewellery stores sell diamond engagement rings which they claim to be of the highest quality but in reality, are a J or K colour. 
No matter your preference in diamond colour, you will almost certainly get better value to money by choosing an independent jeweller.

Tips for Identifying Undesirable Tints in H Colour Diamonds

When choosing an H colour diamond, look at it in various lighting conditions. Natural light is best for revealing any unwanted tints. Comparing diamonds side by side can also help you spot subtle differences in colour. As someone who has spent over 15 years sourcing diamonds for clients and product collections, I know exactly what to look for, and have a trusted network who know my exacting standards when it comes to diamonds. My choosing me to help find the perfect diamond for you I will ensure the stone you choose is something I would be happy to wear myself.

White Diamond Colour Comparison Images

Choosing Diamonds for Yellow Gold Settings

How Yellow Gold Disguises Diamond Warmth

If you're set on a yellow gold setting, you're in luck. Yellow gold can mask the warmth in lower colour diamonds, making them appear whiter. This allows you to choose a lower colour grade without compromising on the ring's overall look. 

Selecting Lower Colour Diamonds to Fit Your Budget

The usual thinking when it comes to a diamond is that you need to have one that is as white as possible, but when it comes to choosing a diamond it’s a personal choice. Some prefer a stone which has a little bit of warmth to it. As long as you choose a diamond which is cut well so the sparkle is full of fire and brilliance, you can diamond which is lower in colour and still achieve a stunning result. Opting for a lower colour diamond, like those in the J to M range, can be a budget-friendly choice for yellow gold settings. The metal's colour complements the diamond's warmth, creating a harmonious look.

Examples of Beautiful Yellow Gold and Diamond Combinations

Imagine a J colour diamond set in a rich yellow gold band – the combination is stunning and exudes a vintage charm. This pairing can create a unique and personalised engagement ring that stands out.

Explore Engagement Rings

Rarity and Price of Fancy Coloured Diamonds

Fancy coloured diamonds are much rarer than colourless diamonds, especially those with intense or vivid hues. This rarity makes them more valuable and often more expensive. For example, fancy vivid pink or blue diamonds can command incredibly high prices due to their scarcity and desirability. 


The Most Popular Coloured Diamonds

The most popular fancy coloured diamond is the yellow diamond. Known for its bright and vibrant hue, yellow diamonds are more common than other fancy coloured diamonds, making them more affordable. Their sunny, warm colour is due to the presence of nitrogen in the diamond's structure, which absorbs blue light and reflects yellow. Yellow diamonds come in various shades, with the most intense and vivid yellow stones being more rare and therefore costly. They are often chosen for their unique beauty and cheerful appearance, it’s hard to see a vibrant yellow diamond and not instantly feel happier!

The Most Rare Coloured Diamonds

The rarest of coloured diamonds are fancy red diamonds, and you’ll be extremely lucky to ever see one in real life. They are so scarce that only a handful are known to exist, making them exceptionally valuable and highly sought after by collectors and investors. The rarity of red diamonds is due to the unique conditions required to create their colour, which is caused by a rare deformation in the crystal lattice of the diamond. Because of their extreme rarity, red diamonds can command prices that are significantly higher than other fancy coloured diamonds.

The Most Budget Friendly Coloured Diamonds

The most affordable coloured diamonds are generally brown diamonds. Often referred to as "champagne" or "cognac" diamonds, these stones are more abundant than other coloured diamonds, making them less expensive. This doesn’t mean they aren’t a great choice however. The earthy tones of brown diamonds have gained popularity in recent years, particularly for those seeking unique and unconventional engagement rings. Their affordability and distinctive look make them a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for something different. 

Some of my favourite Natural Diamond Rings

Round Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring with open setting.

Simple Round Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring

Simple Round Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring

From £1,995.00 GBP
From £1,995.00 GBP
Fancy Brown Diamond Engagement Ring

Fancy Brown Diamond Engagement Ring

Fancy Brown Diamond Engagement Ring

£3,995.00 GBP
£3,995.00 GBP
Rose Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

Rose Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

Rose Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

£4,295.00 GBP
£4,295.00 GBP

Affordable Alternatives to Fancy Yellow Diamonds

If you love the look of a fancy yellow diamond but find them too pricey, consider diamonds in the X-Z range. These diamonds have a noticeable yellow tint and are much more affordable than fancy yellow diamonds.


The Appeal of X-Z Range Diamonds

X-Z range diamonds offer a lovely yellow hue that can be just as striking as their more expensive counterparts. When set in yellow or rose gold, their colour can be enhanced, creating a beautiful and unique engagement ring. X-Y coloured diamonds are often found in a cushion cut as the shape and depth of these stones, together with the bright fiery sparkle of a cushion shaped diamond enhances the yellow colour making them appear just as beautiful as a fancy yellow diamond.

W - Z Coloured Diamonds

Practical Tips for Viewing and Selecting Diamonds

Viewing Diamonds in Different Lighting Conditions

Always view diamonds in different lighting conditions. Natural daylight is ideal for seeing the true colour of the diamond. Indoor lighting can sometimes mask or enhance certain tints, so it's good to compare. When working with a client I can always send videos and images of diamond options for an initial choice, before giving the option to see a shortlist of stones in person. Most often however my clients prefer to do everything via whatsapp, as you can see detailed diamond videos and I will give my professional opinion on the best options for you to achieve the look you are after.

Ethical Jewellery Packaging

Consulting with a Professional Jeweller

Working with a professional jeweller like Poppy Elder Fine Jewellery can provide valuable insights. I can guide you through the selection process, helping you understand the nuances of diamond colour and how it fits into your overall design. 

So, now you know how you know choose the perfect diamond colour, let’s find that perfect stone!

Choosing the perfect diamond colour for your unusual engagement ring is an exciting part of the journey. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of a colourless diamond or the unique charm of a tinted stone, understanding diamond colour helps you make the best choice.

Explore the collection and contact me for personalised assistance in designing your dream ring. Let's create a piece that truly reflects your love and commitment.

Feel free to reach out with any questions – we’re here to help you create the perfect bespoke engagement ring that you and your partner will cherish forever.

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