How to Choose a Fancy Colored Lab Diamond: A Comprehensive Guide

Fancy colored lab diamonds are a stunning addition to any jewelry collection, offering a unique blend of beauty, rarity, and value. Whether you're looking to add a touch of color to your engagement ring or simply looking for a rare gemstone, fancy colored lab diamonds are a fantastic choice. This guide will walk you through the process of selecting the perfect fancy colored lab diamond, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Introduction

Fancy colored lab diamonds, created through advanced technological processes, are gaining immense popularity due to their rarity, beauty, and the fact that they offer the same brilliance and fire as natural diamonds but at a fraction of the cost. These diamonds come in a range of colors, from vivid blues and pinks to soft yellows and greens, each with its own unique allure and significance.

Understanding Fancy Colored Lab Diamonds

What Are Fancy Colored Lab Diamonds?

Fancy colored lab diamonds are artificial diamonds produced using advanced technological processes. Unlike natural diamonds, which take millions of years to form, lab-grown diamonds are created within weeks or months using advanced methods such as High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).

Types of Fancy Colored Lab Diamonds

Fancy colored lab diamonds can be classified into various types based on the impurities and stress conditions used during their creation. These types include:

1. Vivid Colored Diamonds:
2. These diamonds are saturated with color and are highly sought after for their vibrancy. They are often used in high-end jewelry and luxury watches.
3. Faint Colored Diamonds:
4. Faint colored diamonds have a slight coloration that is visible only under certain lighting conditions. They are more affordable and suitable for everyday wear.
5. Fancy Light Colored Diamonds:
6. These diamonds have a moderate color intensity that is visible to the naked eye. They offer a balance between rarity and affordability.
7. Fancy Intense Colored Diamonds:
8. Intense colored diamonds are highly saturated and offer a bold, vivid appearance. They are ideal for those seeking a statement piece.

Unique Properties

Fancy colored lab diamonds have several unique properties that make them stand out:

• Color:
• The color of fancy colored lab diamonds is one of their most distinguishing features. They can range from deep, vivid hues to pastel shades, offering a wide spectrum of options.
• Clarity:
• Clarity refers to the presence of internal or external inclusions in the diamond. Lab-grown diamonds are usually flawless or near-flawless due to the controlled conditions in which they are created.
• Cut and Polish:
• The cut and polish of a fancy colored lab diamond can enhance its beauty and brilliance. The right cut can bring out the color and make the diamond look more vibrant.

Popular Colors and Their Meanings

Fancy colored lab diamonds come in a wide array of colors, each with its own significance and market value. Heres a brief overview of some of the most popular colors:

Popular Colors and Trends

• Blue: Blue diamonds are highly sought after due to their rarity and unique appeal. They are perfect for individuals who appreciate the beauty of the ocean or the sky.
• Pink: Pink diamonds symbolize love, compassion, and femininity. They are often chosen for engagement rings or other sentimental pieces.
• Yellow: Yellow diamonds are known for their vibrant color and are associated with joy, optimism, and loyalty. They are a popular choice for casual wear.
• Green: Green diamonds are increasingly popular due to their association with nature and growth. They are ideal for eco-conscious individuals or those who enjoy unique designs.

Diamond Colors and Their Market Value

• Blue Diamonds: Blue diamonds are among the most expensive, with prices ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 per carat, depending on the color intensity and clarity.
• Pink Diamonds: Pink diamonds are highly valued and can cost between $3,000 and $15,000 per carat. They are considered one of the most luxurious and rare types of diamonds.
• Yellow Diamonds: Yellow diamonds are more affordable, with prices ranging from $500 to $2,000 per carat.
• Green Diamonds: Green diamonds are slightly more expensive than yellow diamonds, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per carat.

Understanding the Impact of Color Intensity

The color intensity of a fancy colored lab diamond is a crucial factor in determining its value. Diamonds with higher color intensity are more valuable and sought after. Heres a breakdown of color grading:

• Faint: The diamond has a slight color that is barely noticeable.
• Very Light: The color is more visible but still subtle.
• Fancy Light: The color is clearly visible and more pronounced.
• Fancy Intense: The color is vivid and highly saturated.
• Fancy Vivid: The diamond has the highest color intensity, bright and bold.

Certifying Your Fancy Colored Lab Diamond

Its important to have your fancy colored lab diamond certified by a reputable gemstone laboratory. This ensures that the diamonds color, clarity, and other characteristics are accurately assessed and can be verified by others.

Quality Factors to Consider

Color Grading System

The color grading system for fancy colored diamonds is different from that of colorless diamonds. Instead of the traditional D-Z scale, fancy colored diamonds are graded based on color intensity on a scale from Faint to Vivid.

• Faint: The diamond has a barely noticeable color.
• Very Light: The color is more noticeable but still subtle.
• Fancy Light: The color is clearly visible.
• Fancy Intense: The color is vivid and more pronounced.
• Fancy Vivid: The diamond has the highest color intensity, bright and bold.

Clarity

Clarity refers to the presence or absence of internal and external imperfections in a diamond. Lab-grown diamonds are typically flawless or near-flawless due to the controlled conditions in which they are created. However, its still important to consider clarity when selecting a fancy colored lab diamond.

Cut and Carat Weight

The cut of a fancy colored lab diamond can significantly affect its appearance. A well-cut diamond will reflect more light and enhance the color. The carat weight also plays a role in pricing, with larger diamonds being more valuable.

Fluorescence

Fluorescence is the phenomenon where a diamond emits a glow when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. While it can be beneficial in some cases (e.g., enhancing the color of faint diamond), fluorescent diamonds can appear hazy under certain lighting conditions. Thus, its important to consider both the color and fluorescence when selecting your fancy colored lab diamond.

How to Determine the Best Quality

To ensure you choose the best fancy colored lab diamond, consider the following factors:

• Color: Choose a diamond with a vivid color intensity.
• Clarity: Opt for a diamond that is flawless or near-flawless.
• Cut: Select a diamond with a premium cut to enhance its brilliance.
• Carat Weight: Consider your budget and desired size but remember that larger diamonds with high quality can be more valuable.
• Fluorescence: Ensure that the diamonds fluorescence does not detract from its beauty.

Certification and Grading

The Role of Certification

Certification is crucial when buying a fancy colored lab diamond. A reputable gemstone laboratory will provide a detailed report that outlines the diamonds characteristics. This includes its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.

Important Grading Criteria

Diamond grading criteria include:

• Color: The color of the diamond is the most significant factor for fancy colored lab diamonds.
• Clarity: Clarity grades range from Internally Flawless (IF) to Included (I3).
• Cut: Cut grades range from Excellent (perfect) to Poor (below standards).
• Carat Weight: The weight of the diamond in carats.

Verifying Authenticity

To verify the authenticity of a fancy colored lab diamond, look for official certification from recognized laboratories such as GIA, IGI, or AGS. These certifications provide detailed information about the diamonds characteristics, ensuring that you receive a high-quality gemstone.

Cost Considerations

Factors Affecting Price

Several factors can affect the price of fancy colored lab diamonds:

• Color Intensity: Diamonds with higher color intensity are more valuable.
• Clarity: Flawless or near-flawless diamonds are more expensive than those with inclusions.
• Carat Weight: Larger diamonds are typically more expensive.
• Cut: Well-cut diamonds reflect more light and enhance the color, making them more valuable.
• Brand: Purchasing from a reputable brand like DKL Jewelry ensures quality and value.

Average Costs

Heres a breakdown of average costs for fancy colored lab diamonds:

• Blue Diamonds: $2,500 - $10,000 per carat
• Pink Diamonds: $3,000 - $15,000 per carat
• Yellow Diamonds: $500 - $2,000 per carat
• Green Diamonds: $1,000 - $5,000 per carat

Cost Savings

Lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than mined diamonds, offering significant cost savings. On average, they can be 30-40% cheaper than their mined counterparts.

Tips for Buying and Caring

Where to Buy

There are several avenues to purchase fancy colored lab diamonds:

• Online Retailers: Many online platforms offer a wide range of options and often provide detailed information about the diamonds.
• Jewelry Stores: Physical stores allow you to view and inspect diamonds in person, but they may come with higher overhead costs.
• Direct from Manufacturers: Purchasing directly from manufacturers can save you money and provide customization options.

What Questions to Ask

When buying a fancy colored lab diamond, consider asking the following questions:

• What is the color intensity?
• Is the diamond certified?
• What are the diamonds clarity and cut grades?
• Where was the diamond created?
• Does the diamond come with a warranty or service plan?

Proper Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your fancy colored lab diamond looking its best. Here are some tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Use a mild soap and warm water to clean your diamond at home.
• Professional Cleaning: Have your diamond professionally cleaned every six months to maintain its brilliance.
• Storage: Store your diamond separately to avoid scratches. Use a soft cloth or a padded box to protect it.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid exposing your diamond to harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as they can damage the metal setting.

Caring for Your Fancy Colored Lab Diamond

Regular care and cleaning can help maintain the beauty and integrity of your fancy colored lab diamond. Here are some tips:

• Use a soft cloth to gently clean the diamond.
• Avoid wearing the diamond while doing household chores or heavy tasks.
• Store your diamond separately to prevent scratches.
• Have your diamond professionally inspected and cleaned every six months.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fancy colored lab diamond involves understanding the various factors that affect its quality and value. By considering factors like color intensity, clarity, cut, and certification, you can find a stunning diamond that meets your needs and preferences.

At DKL Jewelry, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality, ethically sourced fancy colored lab diamonds. Our diamonds are certified by reputable gemstone laboratories, ensuring that you receive a gemstone of the highest quality. Whether youre looking for a vibrant blue, a romantic pink, or any other stunning shade, DKL Jewelry has the perfect diamond for you.

DKL Jewelry is committed to providing you with the finest quality fancy colored lab diamonds. Our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way.

Happy Diamond Hunting!