The Four C's of Diamonds: Color
How much does color matter in a diamond, and what does it mean for the other three C's? Here's how diamonds are graded for color, what each grade costs you, and when a warmer stone is the smarter buy.
How color is graded
Diamonds are graded for color from D to Z. A D diamond is completely colorless and white in tone; the further down the scale, the more yellow, brown or gray a diamond can look.
Every diamond forms differently, and sometimes another element is trapped in the carbon as it grows. That isn't always a bad thing: it's how we get blue, pink and ultra-rare red diamonds. Most often, though, color runs from white to yellow.
The color scale at a glance
As a rule of thumb, going up one color grade can add about 15% to the price of the stone. It isn't a hard rule, but it's why color is one of the best places to balance your budget.
| Grades | Looks |
|---|---|
| D, E, F | Colorless |
| G, H, I, J | Near colorless |
| K, L, M | Faint color |
| N to Z | Very light to light color |
Do you need a colorless diamond?
Not necessarily. A diamond with a slight golden tone can be the perfect match for a yellow gold setting, and the money you save on color can go into a better cut or a bigger stone.
Dealer tip
Color is easiest to judge with the stone in front of you, against white and next to other diamonds. That's exactly how we show diamonds in a consultation.
Find the color that fits your ring and budget
We'll show you diamonds a few grades apart, side by side, so you can see whether the difference is worth paying for. In person in Downtown LA or by video call.
Explore the other C's
Each C trades off against the others. See how all four fit together, or read the next guide.
Let's find your diamond
Every Concierge Diamonds piece starts with a free, no-pressure consultation. The form takes about a minute, and we'll be in touch within two business days. Questions first? Read Dan Moran's answers on cut and the 4Cs or call (213) 261-4330.