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When you picture a diamond, you probably imagine a clear, sparkly stone. While this is one possible shade that these gems can have, it isn't the only one. Most diamonds actually contain some hint of yellow, and this is because of nitrogen impurities within the stone. Find out what hues are possible and how color impacts the value of diamonds below.

What Colors of Diamonds Are There?

The Gemological Institute of America, GIA, provides a standard scale for grading diamond color. The scale is lettered and goes from D to Z.

Colorless diamonds are valued the most highly, with grades of D, E, or F. After this, near colorless diamonds are graded from G to J. Faint yellow diamonds are graded from K to M. Very light yellow are graded from N to R and light yellow from S to Z.

Colorless diamonds ranging from D to F are also called white diamonds. Diamonds ranging from K to Z may also be referred to as cape diamonds by some jewelers. Diamonds ranging from W to Z may also be called lemonade diamonds.

How Does Color Affect Value?

diamondsYour budget will impact what color you can afford. Basically, the more color a stone has, the lower its value is. A white diamond is the priciest. If you can’t afford this category, but like the look, a jeweler can mute the vibrancy of a yellower stone with a yellow or rose gold setting. 

There is another category altogether for so-called "fancy" gems, which are saturated with more vibrant hues of bright yellow, pink, green, and blue. Fancy diamonds are graded on a separate scale and, because they are rarer, can cost even more than white diamonds. 

 

Sartor Hamann Jewelers provides high-quality gems to Grand Island and Lincoln, NE. In business since 1905, these jewelers make customer care a top priority. They know that a diamond is a one-of-a-kind purchase and will take the time to advise you personally based on your preferences and budget. They also offer custom jewelry design. Get a peek at their diamond selection online. For your convenience, they have three locations. 1150 O St., Lincoln, 2900 Pine Lake Rd., Lincoln, and 3337 West State St., Grand Island. If you have questions about their offerings, call (402) 476-8561.

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