A diamonds color grade is a letter grade given to designate the body color of a diamond. The color grade is not the colors seen in the sparkle of a diamond but instead the color seen inside the stone, when viewed under controlled lighting against a white background. A diamond’s color can only be accurately graded through comparison with diamonds of a known grade

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gem Society (AGS), and the European Gemological Laboratories (EGL) are the three most widely known and respected diamond grading laboratories.

Color grading scales used by the internationally recognized laboratories (GIA & EGL for example), ranges from totally colorless (D) to pale yellow or brown color (Z). Brown diamonds darker than K color are usually described using their letter grade, and a descriptive phrase, for example M Faint Brown. Diamonds with more depth of color than Z color fall into the fancy color diamond range. The American Gem Society scale ranges from a Colorless grade (0) to a pale yellow or brown color grade of 10.

The coloration of diamonds can be caused by several factors. Impurities trapped in the diamond during its formation, the crystal lattice structure of the diamond, and the exposure to radiation can all lead to the wide verity of colors available in diamonds.

What's important to know? The eye cannot discern the difference between slight grades of color. Most people would prefer diamonds in either the colorless or near colorless ranges. However, a "K" color diamond can be beautiful if it is properly cut. Cutting does affect the perception of color. This is why a Hearts On Fire diamond actually appears two color grades better than it’s color grade is certified to be. As with all diamonds you must decide what is important to you. A change in color grade will bring about a change in price of 10 to 15 percent. Goldstein's professionals will work with you so to be certain you end up with the diamond that will be the best combination of size and beauty for you.