Yellow Diamonds – A Buyers Guide to Choosing the Best Yellow Diamond
Experience the Exquisite Charm of Owning a Piece of Earth’s History
Yellow diamonds are one of the most stunning and rare types of colored diamonds available. Their vibrant color, ranging from soft pale yellow to deep, almost golden hues, makes them highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike. These diamonds are truly special, and if you’re thinking about buying one, there’s a lot to know!
What Are Yellow Diamonds?
Often referred to as “canary diamonds,” they are a subset of fancy color diamonds. Their yellow hue comes from traces of nitrogen in the diamond’s carbon structure. While white diamonds are prized for their clarity and absence of color, yellow ones shine because of their color! The more intense the yellow, the more valuable the gemstone becomes.
How Yellow Diamonds Are Formed
These lovely yellow gemstones get their color thanks to nitrogen atoms that are trapped in the diamond during its formation deep within the Earth. These nitrogen atoms absorb blue light, which makes the gemstone appear yellow. The more nitrogen present, the deeper the yellow color. This natural process takes millions of years, which adds to the allure and rarity of these yellow gemstones.
What Yellow Diamonds Are Used For
They are a popular choice for a variety of fine jewelry, including engagement rings, necklaces, and earrings. They stand out beautifully against white metals like platinum or white gold, though they can also pair beautifully with yellow gold for a more classic, warm aesthetic.
Because they are rarer than white diamonds, they bring a unique touch to any piece of jewelry, making them perfect for those who want to express individuality and luxury.
Famous Yellow Diamonds
These beautiful yellow gemstones have graced some of the most iconic pieces of jewelry in history. One of the most famous is the Tiffany Yellow Diamond, weighing 128.54 carats, worn by icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Lady Gaga. Another famous stone is the Florentine Diamond, a 137.27-carat yellow diamond that was lost in history but remains legendary.
They are also frequently seen in pop culture, whether worn by celebrities on the red carpet or featured in blockbuster films. They symbolize luxury, elegance, and uniqueness, making them a favorite among the elite.
How Are Yellow Diamonds Priced?
What they cost is heavily influenced by their color strength, among other factors like clarity, cut, and carat weight. Here’s a breakdown of how color intensity affects the price:
- Fancy Light Yellow: These diamonds have the softest yellow hue. Their color is faint but noticeable, and they are the most affordable ones. Prices typically range from $2,500 to $5,000 per carat, depending on other qualities like clarity and cut.
- Fancy Yellow: Also called “canary yellow,” these diamonds have a more vibrant yellow hue than Fancy Light Yellow. Prices for them generally range from $5,000 to $10,000 per carat.
- Fancy Intense Yellow: These diamonds have a rich, deep yellow color and are more rare and valuable than the previous two categories. Prices for Fancy Intense Yellow diamonds range from $10,000 to $25,000 per carat.
- Fancy Vivid Yellow: The most sought-after and valuable yellow diamonds, Fancy Vivid Yellow diamonds have a striking and bold color. Prices for these diamonds can start around $25,000 per carat and can exceed $50,000 per carat, depending on other characteristics.
Investment Value of a Yellow Diamond
These stunning yellow gems have proven to be a solid investment over time. As the demand for colored diamonds increases, so does their value. A high-quality Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond can appreciate significantly over the years, making it a smart choice for investors and collectors alike.
How to Spot Fake Yellow Diamonds
Fake or synthetic ones can look convincing to the untrained eye. To ensure you’re getting the real deal, always request a certificate of authenticity from a trusted gemological institute. Look for grading reports from the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or IGI (International Gemological Institute).
Yellow Diamonds vs White Diamonds
White diamonds may be the classic choice, but yellow ones offer something a little different. While white diamonds are evaluated based on their lack of color, yellow ones are appreciated for their hue. Because they are rarer, they often carry a higher price tag for stones of similar size and quality.
How to Choose a Yellow Diamond
When selecting a yellow diamond, focus on the color intensity first and foremost. Fancy Vivid Yellow diamonds are the most valuable, but if you prefer a softer look, Fancy Light Yellow may be more your style. Pair your diamond with a setting that enhances its color—yellow gold can make a yellow diamond appear more intense, while white metals provide a striking contrast.
Yellow Diamond Jewelry Care
These precious gemstones are durable, ranking 10 on the Mohs scale, but they still require care. Clean your yellow diamond regularly using a soft brush and warm, soapy water to maintain its brilliance. Also, store it separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches.
Final Thoughts
Yellow diamonds are a unique and stunning choice for anyone looking to add a pop of color and elegance to their jewelry collection. Whether you’re drawn to the soft glow of a Fancy Light Yellow diamond or the intense brilliance of a Fancy Vivid Yellow, these gemstones are sure to make a statement. Their rarity and beauty make them valuable, both aesthetically and financially, and with proper care, they can be cherished for generations.