Diamond knowledge

Diamond colour D to Z: what can you see?

The D–Z scale describes body colour. D is the highest colour grade; yellow or brown tint increases towards Z. Fancy-colour diamonds use a different system.

What changes visually?

D–F is colourless and G–J near-colourless. Adjacent grades can be hard to distinguish face-up. Larger stones and some facet patterns can show colour more readily. Compare consistent white balance, a neutral background and several angles; a warm photograph does not prove a low grade.

What does that mean for price?

Higher colour grades often command a rarity premium. Decide using your own colour sensitivity and several actual stones. Magaura exaggerates tint to explain the scale; the viewer is not a colour-accurate preview.

Try it in the interactive guide

Check the actual stone

Request a grading report and current video of the specific diamond. Confirm the total price, availability, dispatch location and return terms with the seller. Our diagrams explain concepts; they do not certify stones or calculate fair market prices.

Grading reference: Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Practical comparison advice is Magaura’s editorial interpretation.

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