When purchasing diamonds, whether natural or lab made diamonds, understanding the importance of colour and clarity is crucial. These two factors significantly impact a diamond’s appearance, value, and overall beauty. Lab made diamonds, created using advanced technological methods, share the same physical and optical properties as natural diamonds, making colour and clarity just as important in evaluating their quality. This article will guide you through the diamond colour and clarity chart specifically in the context of lab made diamonds to help you make an informed choice.
Diamond Colour Scale for Lab Made Diamonds
The colour of a diamond refers to the presence or absence of any tint, usually yellow or brown. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) created a standard colour grading scale used for both natural and lab made diamonds. This scale ranges from D (completely colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
Lab made diamonds are graded on this same scale, meaning that a lab made diamond with a “D” rating is as colourless and visually stunning as a mined diamond with the same grade. Here’s a quick overview of the diamond colour grades for lab made diamonds:
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D-F (Colourless): These lab made diamonds are completely colourless and are the rarest and most valuable. They appear icy white and reflect maximum brilliance.
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G-J (Near Colourless): Lab diamonds in this range appear nearly colourless to the naked eye but may show slight colour when compared side by side with higher grades.
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K-M (Faint Colour): Lab made diamonds with faint colour tints can have a slight yellow or brownish hue, which may be visible in larger stones.
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N-Z (Very Light to Light Colour): Diamonds in this category display noticeable colour, usually light yellow or brown, and are less valuable.
For buyers of lab made diamonds, selecting a colour grade depends on personal preference and budget. Many find that near colourless lab diamonds (G-J) offer excellent value without a significant visible difference compared to colourless grades.
Clarity Scale for Lab Made Diamonds
Clarity measures the presence of internal inclusions or external blemishes in a diamond. Lab made diamonds undergo the same grading standards as natural diamonds, with clarity ratings ranging from Flawless to Included. Here is an outline of the clarity grades relevant to lab made diamonds:
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FL (Flawless): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification in lab made diamonds.
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IF (Internally Flawless): No internal inclusions, only minor surface blemishes detectable under magnification.
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VVS1 and VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included): Minute inclusions that are extremely difficult to see even under magnification.
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VS1 and VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Minor inclusions visible under 10x magnification but not typically noticeable to the naked eye in lab made diamonds.
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SI1 and SI2 (Slightly Included): Inclusions that may be visible to the naked eye, especially in larger lab diamonds.
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I1, I2, and I3 (Included): Inclusions visible to the naked eye and may affect the durability or brilliance of lab made diamonds.
Choosing the right clarity grade for lab made diamonds depends on balancing appearance and cost. Many buyers prefer VS or SI clarity grades, which provide a good combination of visual appeal and affordability.
Why Colour and Clarity Matter in Lab Made Diamonds
Lab made diamonds are chemically and physically identical to mined diamonds, which means the diamond colour and clarity chart is just as relevant. A higher colour grade in lab made diamonds ensures the gem looks bright and colourless, maximizing its sparkle. Similarly, a better clarity grade means fewer imperfections, leading to a clearer and more brilliant stone.
Because lab made diamonds can be produced with fewer impurities and more control over their quality, many lab diamonds achieve excellent colour and clarity ratings at more accessible prices than natural diamonds. This makes the diamond colour and clarity chart especially useful for consumers who want a high-quality lab diamond that fits their budget.
How to Use the Diamond Colour and Clarity Chart When Buying Lab Made Diamonds
When shopping for lab made diamonds, it’s helpful to refer to the diamond colour and clarity chart as a guide. Start by deciding which attributes matter most to you—whether it’s having a completely colourless diamond, a flawless clarity, or a balance of both.
It’s also essential to view lab made diamonds in person or through high-quality images to see how colour and clarity grades translate visually. Often, the differences between adjacent grades are subtle, and choosing near-colourless or slightly included diamonds can provide the best value without sacrificing beauty.
Always ask for certification from reputable labs that grade lab made diamonds according to industry standards. This certification verifies the diamond’s colour and clarity grades, giving you confidence in your purchase.
Conclusion
The diamond colour and clarity chart is a vital tool when evaluating lab made diamonds. Because lab diamonds share the same fundamental qualities as natural diamonds, understanding colour and clarity grades helps you choose a stone that offers beauty, brilliance, and value. Whether you prioritize a colourless appearance or a flawless clarity, lab made diamonds provide a fantastic opportunity to own stunning diamonds that meet your expectations at a more accessible price point.
By familiarizing yourself with the diamond colour and clarity chart, you can confidently select lab made diamonds that shine brilliantly and bring lasting joy.