When it comes to diamonds, the classic white stone has long been the most sought-after choice. However, in recent years, coloured diamonds—especially yellow diamonds—have been gaining significant popularity among jewellery lovers, collectors, and those looking for something truly unique. At Moments Jewellery, I’m excited to focus on the enchanting world of coloured diamonds this year, and yellow diamonds hold a special place in my heart. These diamonds not only dazzle with their stunning hues, but they also carry a rich history, rarity, and allure that make them perfect for engagement rings, special occasion pieces, and bespoke jewellery designs.
In this blog post, I’ll explore everything you need to know about yellow diamonds: from their origins and colour grading to how to choose the perfect yellow diamond for your jewellery collection.
What Are Yellow Diamonds?
Yellow diamonds, also known as canary diamonds, are one of the most popular and sought-after coloured diamonds in the world. As the name suggests, these diamonds are coloured yellow by nitrogen impurities that are naturally present in the earth. These impurities cause the diamonds to absorb blue light, which results in the warm, vibrant hues that range from a pale yellow to a deep, intense golden shade.
Unlike white diamonds, which are colourless and graded based on the absence of colour, yellow diamonds are graded by the presence of their unique colour. The strength of the yellow hue is one of the primary factors that determines a yellow diamond’s value, making it a striking alternative for those who desire something different from traditional white diamonds.
The Origins of Yellow Diamonds
Yellow diamonds are formed in nature under extremely high-pressure and temperature conditions deep within the earth’s mantle. While all diamonds are created from carbon atoms, yellow diamonds owe their distinctive hue to the presence of nitrogen molecules that bond with carbon during the diamond’s formation.
Historically, yellow diamonds have been found in various regions around the world, including South Africa, Australia, and Russia. The famous Kimberley Mine in South Africa is known for producing some of the highest-quality yellow diamonds, and it is here that many of the world’s most significant yellow diamonds have been discovered.
One of the most notable examples is the “Canary Yellow Diamond”, a vibrant yellow diamond that has captured the imagination of collectors and jewellery lovers alike. This historic gem has helped solidify the place of yellow diamonds as a highly coveted and rare option in the world of fine jewellery.
What Makes Yellow Diamonds Yellow?
The colour of a yellow diamond is caused by the presence of nitrogen atoms in the diamond’s crystal structure. As the nitrogen atoms are incorporated during the diamond’s formation, they absorb blue light, which results in the yellowish hue we see.
The intensity of the yellow colour can vary depending on the amount of nitrogen present. Some yellow diamonds are lighter, with a subtle yellow tint, while others are more saturated, showcasing a deep and rich golden yellow. This variation in colour is one of the reasons why yellow diamonds are so unique and valued for their warmth and vibrancy.
Choosing the Perfect Yellow Diamond
When choosing a yellow diamond, it’s important to consider several factors, including the intensity of the yellow hue, the diamond’s clarity, and the overall quality of the stone. Here’s what you need to look for when selecting a yellow diamond for your bespoke jewellery:
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Colour Intensity:
The first thing to consider when choosing a yellow diamond is the intensity of the colour. Depending on your personal taste and the type of jewellery you want to create, you can opt for a lighter, more subtle yellow or a deeper, more vibrant shade. The choice of colour can dramatically affect the appearance and overall impact of the piece. -
Clarity:
As with all diamonds, clarity is an important factor when choosing a yellow diamond. While some yellow diamonds may have natural inclusions, it’s essential to choose a stone that has good clarity to ensure maximum brilliance. A diamond with fewer inclusions will sparkle more and look clearer, which is especially important for coloured diamonds that are naturally less transparent than white diamonds. -
Cut:
The cut of the diamond is also crucial, as it affects how the stone reflects light. For yellow diamonds, the cut should be chosen carefully to ensure the diamond’s colour is showcased in the best possible light. The right cut can enhance the warmth and radiance of the stone, bringing out the depth of the yellow hue. -
Carat Weight:
Yellow diamonds come in a range of sizes, and the carat weight will impact the overall cost. Larger stones are rarer and more valuable, but smaller yellow diamonds can also make beautiful pieces, especially when set in unique, intricate designs. -
Setting Style:
Yellow diamonds are often paired with complementary stones or set in warm, golden metals like yellow gold or rose gold, which enhance the natural beauty of the diamond’s yellow hue. Consider how your yellow diamond will fit into the overall design of your engagement ring, necklace, or other jewellery piece.
Yellow Diamond Colour Grading: From S-Z to Fancy Colour
When it comes to grading yellow diamonds, there are two main categories: the D-Z scale (used for colourless to near-colourless diamonds) and the fancy colour grading scale. While diamonds from the D-Z scale typically have minimal colour, yellow diamonds fall within both of these categories depending on their intensity and hue.
Diamonds on the D-Z Scale (S-Z)
On the D-Z colour grading scale, yellow diamonds are graded for their yellowish tint, but these stones are not considered "fancy" coloured diamonds. Diamonds on this scale range from S to Z and are often referred to as having a faint yellow or light yellow hue. Here's how they are graded:
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S-Z Diamonds:
These diamonds typically show a faint yellow tint, which is less noticeable than the deeper yellow colours found in fancy coloured diamonds. They are often affordable compared to more intensely coloured stones, making them a good option for those on a budget who want a yellow diamond with a subtle touch of colour.
S-Z diamonds are often priced lower because the colour is less intense, and they fall outside the “fancy” colour grading range. Although they might appear yellow to the naked eye, the colour isn’t as vibrant or saturated as in fancy yellow diamonds.
Fancy Colour Yellow Diamonds
When a yellow diamond surpasses the faint yellow or light yellow grade, it enters the fancy colour grading system, which evaluates the diamond’s hue, tone, and saturation. This system is where we see the most desirable and stunning yellow diamonds, ranging from light fancy yellow to fancy vivid yellow.
Here’s how the grading breaks down:
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Fancy Light Yellow:
This grade is slightly more saturated than the faint yellow stones but still light in appearance. Fancy Light Yellow diamonds are a popular choice for those who want a subtle and elegant yellow hue. These diamonds show a warm, delicate yellow colour without overwhelming the senses, making them perfect for those seeking understated elegance. -
Fancy Yellow:
This is a more noticeable and rich yellow. Fancy Yellow diamonds are ideal for people who want a strong but not overwhelming yellow tone. These diamonds strike a balance between saturation and vibrancy, making them perfect for high-end jewellery designs that need just the right pop of colour. -
Fancy Intense Yellow:
A highly sought-after grade for yellow diamonds, Fancy Intense Yellow diamonds are known for their deep, vivid yellow hue. These diamonds have a rich, golden yellow colour and stand out in jewellery designs, giving an eye-catching and elegant touch to engagement rings and fine jewellery. The intensity of the yellow is bold but sophisticated, making them a striking alternative to traditional white diamonds. -
Fancy Vivid Yellow:
The most saturated and intensely coloured yellow diamonds, Fancy Vivid Yellow diamonds are truly exceptional. These diamonds are rare and extremely valuable, known for their deep, rich yellow hue that almost seems to glow. Fancy Vivid Yellow diamonds are the ultimate choice for those looking for a truly unique and vibrant diamond that commands attention. These stones are highly prized in the jewellery world, especially for bespoke engagement rings and high-end collections.
Choosing the Right Yellow Diamond for You
When selecting a yellow diamond, understanding the colour grading system is essential. If you’re looking for a subtle yellow hue that’s more affordable, a Fancy Light Yellow or Fancy Yellow diamond might be the right choice. However, if you want a rich, luxurious stone with intensity and depth, a Fancy Intense Yellow or Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond will give you that striking pop of colour.
Keep in mind that the intensity of the colour plays a significant role in the overall appearance and value of the stone. If you’re drawn to vibrant, rich tones, then the Fancy Vivid Yellow diamonds will likely be the most eye-catching and expensive option. But if you prefer something softer and more understated, the Fancy Light Yellow or Fancy Yellow diamonds might suit your style better.
The Growing Popularity of Yellow Diamonds
As people look for unique, non-traditional options for engagement rings and fine jewellery, yellow diamonds are becoming increasingly popular. Their warm, vibrant hue provides a fresh alternative to the classic white diamond, and their rarity and natural beauty make them a stunning choice for those who want something special.
At Moments Jewellery, I’m excited to incorporate yellow diamonds into my designs and offer them as a captivating option for those seeking something truly unique. Whether set in a custom engagement ring or a meaningful piece of jewellery, yellow diamonds bring a radiant, personal touch to any design.
Final Thoughts...
Yellow diamonds are an incredibly unique and captivating option for anyone looking to create a bespoke jewellery piece that stands out. Their stunning colours, rarity, and symbolic meaning make them perfect for engagements, anniversaries, and other special occasions. By understanding the grading system, the various shades of yellow, and how to choose the perfect stone, you can make an informed decision when selecting your stone.
If you’re interested in learning more or looking to create your own custom piece, feel free to get in touch with me to explore the beauty of coloured diamonds together and create something truly special.
