When we hear about diamonds, we usually think about the traditional clear and colorless stones. However, there’s a whole world of colorful diamonds out there that are just as valuable, if not more. They’re called fancy diamonds, and they come in a variety of colors and hues. Fancy diamonds are unique in the world of gemstones because of their rarity and the factors that contribute to their value. In this article, we will explore the world of fancy diamonds and explain what makes them different from regular diamonds.
Types of Fancy Diamonds
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of fancy diamonds! Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular types of fancy diamonds, each with its unique hue and charm.
- Yellow Diamonds: These are the most common types of fancy diamonds. Their color comes from nitrogen particles that get trapped in the carbon lattice during the formation of the gemstone.
- Blue Diamonds: These are extremely rare and owe their color to the presence of boron in the diamond’s structure. The Hope Diamond is the world’s most famous blue diamond.
- Pink Diamonds: While not fully understood, it is believed that pink diamonds get their color from a process known as plastic deformation. These diamonds are incredibly rare and are mostly found in Australia.
- Red Diamonds: The rarest of all fancy diamonds, red diamonds are not well understood. They are believed to get their color similar to pink diamonds, through plastic deformation. The Moussaieff Red is the most famous red diamond.
- Green Diamonds: Natural green diamonds are rare and get their color from radiation exposure. The Dresden Green is the most famous natural green diamond.
- Brown and Black Diamonds: Once not considered suitable for gemstones, these diamonds have grown in popularity thanks to marketing efforts. The color comes from structural imperfections or inclusions.
Grading Fancy Diamonds
When it comes to grading fancy diamonds, there are several factors that are taken into account. Here are some of the most crucial aspects:
- Color: This is the most significant factor while grading fancy diamonds. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses nine descriptive terms to grade the color intensity – Faint, Very Light, Light, Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Dark, Fancy Intense, Fancy Deep, and Fancy Vivid.
- Hue: This refers to the dominant color of the diamond. Some diamonds can have multiple hues, but there’s always one primary hue.
- Tone: Tone is the relative lightness or darkness of a color. The GIA grades tone for fancy color diamonds on a scale that ranges from Very Light to Fancy Dark.
- Saturation: Saturation, or color strength, varies from pale to vivid. Generally, diamonds with higher color saturation are more desirable.
- Distribution: It is the evenness of the diamond’s color. An evenly distributed color increases a diamond’s value.
The combination of these factors determines the diamond’s final color grade, affecting its final market price. The importance of certification and grading in determining the value of fancy diamonds cannot be overstated. When purchasing such valuable gemstones, it is crucial to ensure credibility, quality, and authenticity. A reputable certification, such as one from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), is a testimonial to these factors.
The grading process involves a meticulous examination of the diamond’s color, hue, tone, saturation, and distribution, as described previously. This grading is not just about determining the value of the diamond, but it’s also about ensuring that the buyer is getting what they are paying for. Without proper certification and grading, it is nearly impossible to ascertain the quality of a fancy diamond.
Care and Maintenance of Fancy Diamonds
It’s essential to take proper care of fancy diamonds, just like any other gemstone, to ensure that they retain their beauty and value. To keep your fancy diamond sparkling the way it should be, make sure to avoid exposing it to heat, chemicals, or harsh sunlight, which can cause irreversible damage. Additionally, you should also clean your diamond regularly to maintain its allure. Use a soft-bristled brush, mild soap, and warm water to clean your fancy diamond gently.
Conclusion
Fancy diamonds are becoming increasingly popular, with many people interested in owning a unique and rare gemstone. With their captivating colors and extreme rarity, they’re truly one-of-a-kind. As we’ve learned, the grading system for fancy diamonds differs from regular diamonds, and obtaining certification from a reputable lab is crucial when purchasing one. Lastly, taking proper care of fancy diamonds is essential to protect their value and beauty. Now that you know more about fancy diamonds, why not consider adding one of these rare gems to your collection?
