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Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Fancy Color Diamond Education

Only one in every 10,000 diamonds possesses natural color and is referred to as a fancy color diamond. For this reason, fancy color diamonds are purchased almost exclusively for the intensity and distribution of the diamond's color. Criteria considered when purchasing a white or colorless diamond, such as cut proportions and clarity, are less important when purchasing a fancy color diamond.

The information below will help you understand fancy color diamonds to determine the diamond that's right for you.

Color

Color intensity, the deepness or richness of color, is the most important consideration when purchasing a fancy color diamond. The more intense the color, the rarer and more valuable the diamond will be. Fancy color diamonds are graded in order of increasing intensity from Faint, Very Light, Light, Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, Fancy Vivid, Fancy Dark, and Fancy Deep.

All of our Blue Nile fancy color diamonds possess natural color and are never exposed to artificial coloring techniques such as dyeing or irradiation.

Color

Carat

After color grade, carat weight has the most impact on price for fancy color diamonds. When diamonds are mined, large gems are discovered much less frequently than small ones. This makes large diamonds much more valuable. For this reason, diamond prices for fancy color diamonds rise exponentially with carat weight. Learn more about carat weight in our Diamond Education section.

Clarity

Due to the nature of fancy color diamonds, clarity is less important than it is in their colorless counterparts. This is true because inclusions tend to be masked by the diamond's color.

Cut

Fancy color diamonds are primarily cut to emphasize their color. This contrasts with colorless diamonds that are cut to maximize sparkle or brilliance, which in some instances can detract from the natural color of a fancy color diamond. While fancy color diamonds still exhibit brilliance, color is the most important characteristic considered when they are being cut.

Shape

While cut describes a diamond's light performance, dimensions and finish; shape refers to the overall outline of the diamond when viewed from the top (e.g. round, princess or marquise). It's important to note that many fancy color diamonds are cut into non-traditional shapes to enhance their natural color. Due to the rarity of fancy color diamonds, a specific shape in a specific color may not be available at any given time.

If you're seeking specific criteria in a fancy color diamond, please call our Diamond and Jewelry Consultants at888-565-7641 for more information.

Certification

All Blue Nile fancy color diamonds are independently analyzed and graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), which is among the most respected laboratories in the diamond industry. Each diamond is accompanied by a colored diamond identification and origin report. This authoritative report lists the diamond's specifications including its color grade, and ensures its natural origin.

Setting Fancy Color Diamonds

When choosing a setting for a fancy color diamond, it is best to choose a setting material that will enhance the natural color of your diamond. For example, fancy yellow diamonds are often set in yellow gold, while pink diamonds look best when set in rose gold. If you have questions about the best setting for your fancy color diamond, please call our Diamond and Jewelry Consultants at 888-565-7641 for more information.


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