If you are interested in jewelry, especially diamond jewelry, then you wouldn’t have missed this recent unearthing of a massive 54-carat yellow diamond by Firestone Diamonds at the Liqhobong Mine in Lesotho.
The Liqhobong mine located in the Southern African kingdom of Lesotho is now one of the essential sources of fancy yellow diamonds. However, this was the largest yellow diamond they have recovered.
You might be aware that yellow diamonds are those that are found in the fancy colored diamond range with an obvious yellow color when viewed face up.
What causes this yellow? It comes from trace amounts of nitrogen in the diamond’s crystal structure.
But not all yellow diamonds are equal. Some are pale yellow, almost unnoticeable whereas others have a vibrant, pure yellow glow with exceptional shine and fire. Of all the fancy colored diamonds, yellow is the second most commonly found color, the first being brown diamonds. If you are planning to find yellow diamonds or shop for a yellow diamond engagement ring, then you will have no trouble sourcing it. They are readily available at many of the diamond deposits and stores across the world.
Unlike pink or red diamonds, their availability is not restricted to a specific location or mine.
How are yellow diamonds graded?
The most standard scale for diamond grading is the D-Z color grading scale from Gemological Institute of America, also known as the GIA scale.
For colorless diamonds or white diamonds, “D” grade or pure colorless diamonds are the most valuable and highest rating. If white diamonds have traces of gray, brown or yellow, then the gem will get a lower color grade on this scale, and its value will go down accordingly.
Beyond the “Z” grade at the bottom of the GIA grading scale, there is a tiny percentage of diamonds that have a yellow color which is strong enough to be noticeable and attractive when you view the faceted side. These colored diamonds are highly rare and much in demand. There is a special grading scale for colored diamonds that grades them according to the quality and strength of their yellowness.
Widely known as the ‘fancy yellow’ color, they vary from Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, Fancy Dark, Fancy Deep, or Fancy Vivid. This nomenclature is based on the tone and saturation of their color.
Buying a yellow diamond – color, design, and setting
If you are investing in yellow diamonds for use in the jewelry, pay attention to the metal color used for the setting.
You need to consider the harmony or contrast of the metal and diamonds. When you choose the right color of metal, it can contrast with the yellow diamond and make it shine out in the setting. Alternatively, if you are going for a more subdued look, then choose a metal that is closer to the shade of the diamond to create a look of harmony.
Your choices of metal shades are gold, platinum, rose gold and some other metals – each with its unique look.
A jeweler can give you essential tips and advice regarding metal choice and settings. But also ask to see samples from their portfolio to get a better understanding.
Secondly, not many are aware that the reflections from the metal band and prongs have an impact on the appearance.
The light that is reflected from the band enters the gem and reflects from each facet throughout the structure. Therefore, the color of the setting has a noticeable influence on the overall look and feel. Again, you need to consult with the jeweler to get a better idea of the colors, designs, and setting.
Certification
When investing in a yellow diamond or yellow diamond jewelry, ensure that you have a certificate. This assures you of the following:
- The diamond’s color is authentic and natural
- The attributes of the diamond (including the 4Cs and some others).
Some commonly known institutes that provide certification are:
GIA: Gemological Institute of America
IGI: International Gemological Institute
EGL: European Gemological Laboratory
Yellow Diamond Engagement Rings
In recent years, fancy yellow-colored diamonds have become the stone de rigor of some spectacular engagement rings. This is because yellow diamond rings look beautiful and are affordable too.
Natural yellow diamonds have a unique allure that makes them an excellent conversation piece, not to mention their heirloom value down the years.
Conclusion
The value and appeal of naturally colored yellow diamonds have steadily risen in the past decade. Whether you are interested in yellow diamonds from the investment perspective or for the sheer love of jewelry, yellow is a smart choice.
