Diamonds have the ability to emit a blue light when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. In some cases, this glow can be green, yellow, white or even red. Around 30% of gem-quality diamonds exhibit fluorescence. This phenomenon is caused by inclusions in the diamond.
Understanding diamond fluorescence can be confusing. Some jewelers say it's a good thing, while others say it's terrible. The truth is that both may be right and both may be wrong. In this article, we'll explore diamond fluorescence and help you make an informed decision when buying a diamond. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) rates diamond fluorescence as None, Weak, Medium, Strong and Very Strong.
When exposed to ultraviolet light, some diamonds will shine in different colors. So why do some diamonds shine under UV light? Think of how UV light makes your whites look whiter and your blacklight posters shine. In the same way, some diamonds fluoresce when under UV light.
Is diamond fluorescence good or bad?
Strong blue fluorescence in diamonds can cause them to appear hazy, oily or hazy under normal lighting conditions. This can make the diamond appear less transparent and less valuable.However, for diamonds with lower color grades (H and below), medium blue fluorescence can help counteract any yellowish tint and make them appear whiter. When comparing diamonds to each other, you will definitely see a difference between a diamond with a strong fluorescence and one with little or no. It's also important to note that this extreme level of haze for a fluorescent diamond is not typical and is not as common as you might think when talking about diamonds that are H and below. Some studies suggest that fluorescence generally improves the appearance of color in diamond. If you are buying a diamond with an H color or lower, look for one with medium blue fluorescence. When buying a diamond, it is important to consider fluorescence. If you ignore it, you could make a big mistake.
Be sure to ask to see the diamond in a variety of different lighting settings, if possible. Before buying a diamond, get personal buying advice from industry veterans. It is estimated that about a third of all diamonds exhibit some form of fluorescence. Smaller colored diamonds cost much less but one with medium-strong fluorescence can make it look like a whiter, more expensive diamond.Brian Gavin is one of our favorite online retailers specializing in high quality super ideal cut diamonds. One of its product lines is Brian Gavin Blue which offers diamonds with medium-strong fluorescence. Interestingly, diamonds can also glow under black light in a variety of other colors ranging from yellow, white, red, green and orange.
Some people consider strongly fluorescent diamonds to be negatively affected by this phenomenon but this is not always the case. In conclusion, understanding diamond fluorescence can be confusing but it is important to consider when buying a diamond. Fluorescence can improve the color of diamonds with lower color grades and even increase their price by 2-3%. Medium blue fluorescence can help counteract any yellowish tint and make them appear whiter.
