How to Choose the Color for Lab-Grown Diamonds?

(picture from: GIA education)

Why Does Diamond Color Matter?

When you're choosing the perfect engagement ring, fine jewelry, the color of the center diamond is a key factor in its beauty and value.

The color grade is a key factor in its beauty and value. It directly impacts how colorless your center stone appears, as well as its brilliance. Understanding the color scale from D to Z empowers you to make a confident choice and find the diamond that’s perfect for you.

Quick Overview of Color Grades

• D-F Grades: Colorless - Top-tier color, appear pure and colorless to the naked eye.

• G-J Grades: Near Colorless - Offer the best value. Typically, no yellow tint is detectable to the naked eye unless compared side-by-side with higher grades.

• K and Below: Faint Yellow - They may have a faint yellow tint you can just notice, but they are a much more affordable option.

(picture from: GIA education)

Detailed Breakdown and Selection Advice by Color Grade

D-E-F Grades (Colorless)

• D Color: The highest color grade. Absolutely colorless, like a drop of pure water. Symbolizes rarity and perfection.

• E Color: Virtually colorless. You'd need special equipment to even see the difference between it and a D color stone. Hard to distinguish from D to the naked eye.

• F Color: Also considered colorless. Only gemologists can detect trace amounts of color, yet it remains imperceptible to the naked eye.

Selection Advice:

• EnoughBudget, Best Choice: If you want the best purity for your diamond, choose D color. If budget is not a concern, do not compromise.

• High-Value Colorless Choices: E and F colors are excellent choices. They offer virtually the same visual effect as D color but at a more advantageous price.

G-H Grades (Near Colorless - The Core Value Zone)

• G Color: An excellent near-colorless grade. When viewed alone, the naked eye perceives no color. Only an expert might detect a slight difference when comparing it side-by-side with a higher-grade diamond (like D color).

• H Color: The benchmark for the near-colorless category. When viewed individually, the vast majority of people cannot detect a yellow tint with the naked eye. 

Selection Advice:

• The Best Value for "Eye-Clean" Look: This is the most recommended range! G and H colors achieve a "pure and colorless look to the naked eye" at a much lower price. For most everyday wear and social occasions, this color range is perfectly sufficient.

• Consider Setting: A platinum or white gold setting can make an H color diamond look whiter and closer to a higher color grade.

I-J Grades (Near Colorless - Entry-Level Favorites)

• I Color: To most people, it will look pretty much colorless. You might only see a hint of yellow if you place it right next to a diamond of a higher grade. But when viewed alone, many still perceive it as white.

• J Color: The threshold of the near-colorless range. The naked eye can usually detect a faint yellow or brownish tint. However, those less familiar with diamonds might still find it quite white and bright.

Selection Advice:

• Low Budget, Larger Carat: To get the largest possible diamond for your budget, consider an I-I color. You can use the savings to upgrade the cut or carat weight.

• Consider Settings: Set the diamond in rose or yellow gold. They blend with the diamond's slight yellow tint, making it look intentional and creating a warm, harmonious look.

• Note: This grade demands more from the cut. An excellent cut (like 3EX) can distract from color perception with its brilliant fire and brightness.

K Grade (and Below)

• K Color: Enters the "Faint Yellow" range. A noticeable yellow tint is usually visible to the naked eye.

Selection Advice:

• Unique Style: If you want something different from the classic white look, a K-color diamond is a great and affordable option. It offers a beautiful warmth that's full of character.

• Not Recommended for Mainstream Tastes: Generally not advised for consumers who want their diamond to look "white and bright."

Comprehensive Selection Strategies and Key Factors

Prioritize Cut Quality:

• This is the most crucial advice! An excellent cut (especially 3EX) makes a diamond so brilliant and fiery that you won't even notice its color. Even an I or J color can look stunning, thanks to all that sparkle. Conversely, a poorly cut D color diamond can appear dull.

Consider the Impact of the Setting Metal:

• Platinum / White Gold: Will accentuate the diamond's inherent body color. Therefore, if choosing I color or below, the tint might be more easily noticeable. Pairing with G color or above is recommended.

• Yellow Gold / Rose Gold: Perfect match for I, J, and K color diamonds. The metal's warm tone blends with the diamond's slight color, making the entire piece look cohesive and intentional.

Relationship Between Shape and Color:

• Round Brilliant Cut: Best at hiding diamond's color. With all its facets designed for maximum sparkle, it's brilliant at disguising any color in the diamond. Therefore, round diamonds allow for more flexibility with color grade.

• Step Cuts (e.g., Emerald, Asscher): Have large, open facets like mirrors, making color more apparent. For these shapes, it's advisable to choose a color grade of G or higher.

Summary and Final Recommendations

No matter which color you choose for your engagement ring or jewelry, remember what makes it special:  it's a timeless symbol of your love.

Remember this formula: Excellent Cut + Sensible Color + Suitable Setting = A Beautiful, Sparkling Diamond.

We hope this detailed guide helps you make the most satisfying choice!