Diamond Fluorescence
Diamond Fluorescence
Key Highlights:
- Fluorescence: A hidden diamond quirk – glows under UV light (invisible normally).
- Price Impact: Don’t underestimate it! Fluorescence can significantly affect a diamond’s price.
- Appearance Change: Debatable effect! Fluorescence might whiten yellowish diamonds but can cause milkiness in high-grade stones (rare).
- GIA Fluorescence Scale: None, Faint, Medium, Strong, Very Strong (similar scales used elsewhere).
- Know Before You Buy: While the visual effect might be subtle, fluorescence can lower the price, especially for diamonds with “Medium Blue” or higher grades.
- Smart Shopping Tips:
-Compare diamonds with high fluorescence side-by-side.
-Consider higher fluorescence for yellowish diamonds to achieve a whiter look.
-Use your knowledge of fluorescence to negotiate a better price. - The Ultimate Choice: Pick a diamond that speaks to your heart and complements your style!
Diamonds captivate us with their sparkle, but some have a hidden characteristic that sets them apart—fluorescence. This natural phenomenon causes certain diamonds to emit a subtle glow under UV light, adding an extra dimension to their beauty. While often overlooked, fluorescence can affect a diamond’s appearance and even its value. Let’s explore how this unique trait influences your diamond selection and what you need to know to make an informed choice.
1. What is Fluorescence?
Fluorescence is a natural light show that occurs when a diamond is exposed to ultraviolet light, typically from specialised bulbs (blue or white in most cases, yellow in rare instances). This light is invisible to the naked eye under normal circumstances, but it’s believed to influence a diamond’s appearance, which we’ll explore further.
2. Fluorescence and Price: A Big Impact
Here’s a crucial fact:
fluorescence can significantly affect a diamond’s price. It’s a highly debated topic – does it truly alter a diamond’s visual appeal? In many cases, fluorescence can actually whiten a yellowish diamond, enhancing its overall look.
3. Fluorescence Facts from the GIA
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), a world leader in diamond grading and research, estimates that around 25-33% of all diamonds exhibit some level of fluorescence. However, only about 10% of diamonds show any visible change in appearance due to fluorescence.
For diamonds with high colour grades (near white), strong fluorescence can sometimes create a milky or cloudy appearance (less than 5% of cases). Conversely, for diamonds with a yellowish tint, fluorescence can act as a whitening agent, potentially improving their perceived quality.
Interestingly, GIA research in the 1990s concluded that laypeople wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between a diamond with and without fluorescence. Even for experts, the ability to distinguish the effect can be inconclusive.
4. The GIA Fluorescence Scale (Similar scales used by other labs):
- None
- Faint
- Medium
- Strong
- Very Strong
5. Why Should You Care About Fluorescence?
Fluorescence might have a minimal impact on appearance, but its influence on price is undeniable – it can cause a double-digit percentage difference! Generally, the bigger price impact affects diamonds with a “Medium Blue” fluorescence grade or higher.
6. Tips for Choosing a Diamond with Fluorescence:
- Comparison is Key: If you’re considering a diamond with high fluorescence, compare it side-by-side with others, keeping the fluorescence grade in mind.
- Wisdom for Yellowish Diamonds: If you’re drawn to a yellowish diamond, consider a higher fluorescence grade as it might create a whiter appearance.
- Informed Choice: Be aware that high fluorescence can affect the price. Use this knowledge to your advantage during negotiations.
By understanding fluorescence and its impact, you’ll be a more informed diamond buyer. Remember, the most important factor is choosing a diamond that captures your heart and complements your style!
Conclusion
Diamond fluorescence adds another layer to consider when choosing your perfect stone. While its impact on appearance can be debated, its influence on price is undeniable. By understanding the GIA fluorescence scale and how fluorescence interacts with different coloured diamonds, you can use this knowledge to your advantage.
Ultimately, the most important factor remains the emotional connection you have with the diamond. Fluorescence can be a friend to your budget or a foe to a high-grade stone’s brilliance. Use this guide to navigate the world of diamond fluorescence with confidence, but remember, choose the diamond that sets your heart ablaze!
