Diamonds are the epitome of love, luxury and class. People generally picture sparkling white or colourless diamonds, but there is another side to these gems that is far more intriguing. Coloured diamonds are rare and vibrant and increasingly seen as treasures not only for jewellery lovers but also for investors.
From soft pink diamonds to striking blue diamonds, coloured diamonds carry a charm. In this article, we will look at what diamond colour really means, why grading is important, and how rare diamond colours affect both beauty and resale value.
Grading Diamonds: Colour
For most traditional diamonds, the less colour you see, the better the value. That is why colourless diamonds have been highly valued for centuries.
Diamonds absorb colours like yellow, green, pink, or blue when conditions change inside the Earth. These are known as coloured diamonds, and they are celebrated for their uniqueness.
The Importance of Diamond Colour Grading
Not all colours are created equal, and that is where grading comes in. Colourless diamonds are graded on a scale from D (completely clear) down to Z (noticeable yellow or brown tint). A D-grade diamond attracts high significance and value.
Coloured diamonds, however, are measured differently. Gemologists look at how strong or vivid the colour is, using terms such as 'fancy light', 'fancy intense', and 'fancy vivid'. For example, a fancy vivid pink diamond will always be more valuable than a fancy light pink diamond because of its deeper, richer tone.
This grading system matters in the resale market because intensity often means rarity, and rarity always means higher demand.
What Are Coloured Diamonds?
Coloured diamonds are natural gemstones with strong hues caused by trace elements or pressure changes during formation. A touch of nitrogen can create yellow diamonds, while boron can result in blue diamonds. Pink- or red-coloured diamonds are formed due to intense changes within the Earth.
Unlike treated or lab-enhanced stones, natural coloured diamonds derive their beauty from nature itself. Each naturally coloured diamond stone is unique and stands apart from the rest.
Types of Fancy Coloured Diamonds
Some of the most fascinating fancy-coloured diamonds include:
- Pink Diamonds: Rare and romantic, pink diamonds have soared in value recently.
- Blue Diamonds: Created by trace amounts of boron, these gems are admired for their deep and calming hue.
- Yellow Diamonds: Often more accessible, yellow diamonds are cheerful, bright, and still highly valuable when the colour is vivid.
- Green Diamonds: Their shades are formed by natural radiation during creation, making them one of the most unique varieties.
Rare Diamond Colours and Their Value
Among all coloured diamonds, red and violet diamonds are incredibly scarce, and when they do appear at auctions, they sell for astonishing prices.
This rarity directly boosts their resale value, making them some of the most prized assets in the jewellery world. Collectors and investors pour in huge amounts of money to acquire these stones.
Natural Coloured Diamonds vs Treated Stones
Natural coloured diamonds differ from treated stones based on the origin. Natural diamonds get their colour from geological processes that took place billions of years ago. Treated stones, on the other hand, are artificially enhanced using methods like heat or radiation to mimic rare colours.
While treated diamonds can look beautiful, they do not hold the same rarity or long-term value as natural coloured diamonds. In terms of resale value or investment, natural stones are always the safer and stronger choice.
How Diamond Colour Affects Resale Value
When it comes to resale, diamond colour makes a big difference. The stronger and rarer hues have a high demand and resale value. Fancy vivid diamonds, whether pink, blue, or green, are highly desired in the resale market.
For example, a vivid blue diamond will always command a higher price than a pale or light blue one. Similarly, pink diamonds have become especially valuable over the years because of their rarity. Even yellow diamonds with strong colour can offer excellent value compared to more common shades.
The Role of Colour in Selling Diamond Jewellery
While planning to buy or sell diamond jewellery, understanding diamond colour can make a huge difference. Buyers can make informed choices and avoid overpaying for treated stones, while sellers can maximise returns by recognising the value of natural coloured diamonds.
At Diamond Brothers, we help clients who want to sell loose diamonds or sell diamond rings by offering free expert evaluations. By considering colour, cut, clarity, and carat weight, we ensure that every client receives the best offer for their jewellery.
Conclusion
Coloured diamonds are one of nature’s greatest natural pieces. From pink diamonds and blue diamonds to yellow and green varieties, each gem tells a story of beauty, rarity, and value. With proper grading and a clear understanding of resale markets, both buyers and sellers can benefit from the growing demand for these gems.
FAQs
What is diamond colour in simple terms?
It is the natural shade or tint of a diamond, ranging from colourless to rare hues like pink, blue, or green.
Which are the rarest diamond colours?
Red and violet diamonds are the rarest, followed by pink and blue.
How does diamond colour grading work?
Colourless diamonds are graded from D to Z. Coloured diamonds are graded on intensity, using terms like fancy light, fancy intense, and fancy vivid.
Do coloured diamonds have good resale value?
Yes, naturally coloured diamonds often have strong resale value, especially the rare or vivid shades.
What is the difference between naturally coloured diamonds and treated stones?
Natural coloured diamonds are formed naturally over billions of years, while treated stones are artificially enhanced. Natural stones hold much higher value.
