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Diamond Colour Guide

Understanding the Spectrum of Brilliance

Diamond colour refers to the natural tint found within a diamond or more accurately, how colourless it is. Even the slightest hint of yellow or brown can influence a diamond’s beauty and value.

The most prized diamonds are colourless, but near-colourless stones can offer almost identical visual appeal for significantly better value. Choosing the right colour grade comes down to personal preference, budget, and how the diamond is set.


The Diamond Colour Scale

The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) grades diamonds on a D to Z scale:

Grade Description Visible Colour
D–F Colourless Exceptionally clear
G–H Near Colourless Appears white to most eyes
I–J Faint Tint Slight warmth, visible in some lights
K–Z Noticeable Tint More visible yellow/brown tones

💡 The Real Gem Tip: G–H diamonds are a customer favourite offering a brilliant, white appearance at excellent value.


How Setting Affects Colour

The metal you choose can impact how diamond colour appears:

  • White Gold or Platinum: Pairs best with D–H diamonds, as it highlights any hint of colour.

  • Yellow or Rose Gold: More forgiving — even I–J diamonds can appear bright due to the warm backdrop.

💎 A slightly tinted diamond can still sparkle beautifully, especially in a warm-toned setting.

Our Colour Grading Standards

At The Real Gem, we only source natural diamonds that fall within a range of colour grades proven to offer both beauty and value. Most of our diamonds fall between D–H, ensuring a clean, bright look across all designs whether you’re choosing a solitaire, halo, or pavé setting.


How Colour Affects Price

The difference between one colour grade and the next can significantly impact cost even if it’s barely noticeable to the naked eye. Choosing a G or H instead of a D can reduce price while maintaining the same elegance.

💡 Spend smart: Balance colour with cut and clarity to get the best overall sparkle for your budget.

Need Personal Advice?

Choosing the right diamond colour can be a personal decision. If you’d like guidance, our team is happy to help from setting selection to colour grading insights.
Contact us or Start a bespoke design