When looking at different colored diamonds for sale, you may have heard of the 4Cs. Color, carat, clarity, and cut are ways to measure how valuable a diamond can be. With a colored diamond, color is the most important, while clarity and cut could be less important but are still valuable to note.
Color: The intensity of the color and the richness of it are the most important things to consider for a colored diamond. The more intense the color is, the rarer it is and the more valuable.
Carat: Carat weight would be the second most important factor. Larger gems are discovered less frequently than smaller ones, so larger diamonds are more valuable. Prices for these diamonds will rise with the carat weight.
Clarity: The nature of colored diamonds makes clarity a less important factor because the inclusions are usually masked by the color. A flawless stone is going to be much rarerin colored diamonds than it is for colorless diamonds. If you find a flawless colored diamond, it is going to be worth a lot.
Cut: Colored diamonds will be cut in order to emphasize their color. For comparison, colorless diamonds are cut in order to maximize the brilliance and sparkle. If a colored diamond was cut like a colorless diamond, then it could detract from the natural color of the stone. Since color is more important, the cut won’t matter as much.
Shape: The shape of the diamond refers to the overall outline of the stone when you view it from the top. Many colored diamonds are cut into untraditional shapes, in order to improve the natural color. Since colored diamonds are rare, finding a specific shape in a specific color may be difficult. Popular shapes for colored diamonds are radiant and cushion varieties.
Other Tips
When looking at colored diamonds for sale, if the stone’s price seems too good to be true, it probably is. If it is a natural colored diamond, then it will be priced accordingly. Stones should be GIA certified. Not all colored diamonds are naturaland some are color treated. If you are looking for a natural stone, use the GIA certification to know what you are buying. Many black diamonds are color treated in order to appear blacker. Treated diamonds will usually be cheaper, but then the color will fade over time. Color enhancements will also weaken the stone, so that it increases the chances of cracks, breaks, or chips. Colored diamonds look great in pieces of fine jewelry, but they aren’t the best for investments because they don’t necessarily go up in value. Be sure to purchase from a jeweler you trust. Understand the care instructions for any treated stones so you don’t damage them.
