What Is Diamond Fluorescence? A Comprehensive Guide

"Diamond Fluorescence is the bluish-yellow colored light reflection of the stone that represents as its natural attribute. So, when UV lights and sunlight radiation fall on the diamond, it gives a tinting blue sparkle, which is totally different from the diamond's natural color. Don't assume that it's a fancy color of the stone."

Diamond prices depend on color, clarity, cut, and carat weight or are influenced by the symmetry grades. But do you know what fluorescence is in a diamond and how it impacts the price and appearance of jewelry? You may have heard the term fluorescence the first time. It is the in-built characteristic of every diamond, whether mined or artificial lab-grown.

The Gemological Institute of America has disclosed the fluorescence diamond chart for a better evaluation. In that chart, there are five grades ranging from None to Very Strong blue colored fluorescence. All of these grades affect the prices and appearance. As a result, when selecting the diamonds for jewelry, prioritize these mentioned grades as 4cs.

With the diamond fluorescence chart, the categorizing stones work has been done easily, like milky or colorless diamonds. Many diamond jewelry stores sell diamonds according to the 4cs and fluorescence grades.

Also, when customers don't want to compromise their budget for a 1-carat round diamond engagement ring, they can select a different fluorescence instead of selecting less carat weights or opting for a diamond clarity that does not match the natural appearance. Choosing a bluish colored stone from the fluorescence grades it saves overspending.

As a buyer, you have to know everything about the diamond fluorescence's meaning, its definition, chart/scale, and types. In addition, if you opt for a different grade, what impact has been reflected on the appearance and cost? Nobody can disclose it in front of you in depth. But, in this article, you can understand everything about the fluorescence of the diamond.

Chapter - I: Diamond Fluorescence Meaning

When a diamond is exposed to sunlight or any of the UV radiation environment, then automatically, blue or yellow colored lights are emitted from the stone called "Diamond Fluorescence." The appearance of this additional colorful sparkle is not just like a fancy color, but it represents the natural counterparts of the stone that exist in-built.

The fluorescence in diamonds typically emits with the blue colors but with it the alternative shades like orange, pink and yellow ideally appeared in the stone. About 30% diamond fluoresce to some degree, sometimes the D color grade look a blue fancy color diamond when it exposed to the ultraviolet rays. Majority, the fluorescence reflected with only blue colors when the daylight exposed with it.

As per above mentioned, GIA mentioned the fluorescence grade for diamonds:

1. None
2. Faint
3. Medium
4. Strong
5. Very Strong

The difference between these grades is their emission intensity of blue colored light, which is different from a diamond's natural color. For example, faint and medium fluorescence diamonds do not appear with the additional blue lights in the naked eye, even when contacted with UV lights. Strong and very strong fluorescence grade diamonds are visible to the naked eye. However, they do not affect the diamond's original reflection significantly but make the surfaces cloudy or milky.

Apart from their appearance in the diamond, sometimes with the nearly colorless grades (I, J, K), strong and very strong fluorescence diamonds appeared hazy and milky in the daylight. This is just because of the slight yellow shade existence in the diamond. Meanwhile, with the D to F color grade, none to medium fluorescence diamonds do not look like a milky stone or have a hazy appearance.

A diamond looks blue in sunlight, then it is recognized as the "Diamond Fluorescence," and it affects the overall cost. For example, strong and very strong fluorescence diamonds are worth less than their actual costs, while faint and medium fluorescence grades always retain their values. But, as mentioned previously, the price of the diamond depends on color, clarity, carat weights, cut grades, and dimensions/sizes.

Fluorescence is neither good nor bad in appearance, but it depends on your personal preference and priorities. If you're on a tangible budget for the jewelry purchase, you can go with the strong or very strong fluorescence diamond. Meanwhile, for a better and clearer look at the diamonds, select medium to faint fluorescence with a flexible budget window.

Chapter - II: Why Diamond Fluorescence Is Important?

Diamond fluorescence is an important factor for you when you prioritize the appearance (hazy, cloudy, or milky), cost, and identification of real diamonds from the simulant or synthetic stones like moissanite and cubic zirconia. The natural appearance of precious diamonds is slightly affected by these effects, so to be sure about that, it is essential to know from GIA's fluorescence grade chart. It helps to scale the additional color effect of the stone.

Flourescence in diamonds is counted as an identically important aspect of the color, clarity, cut, and carat weights of the stones. These effects are essential in deciding which cost has been paid or how the appearance will be reflected from the stones. Also, it is used to identify the simulant diamonds like Moissanite and CZ stones that usually do not fluoresce. As a result, with the UV lights, the diamonds and other kinds of diamond alternative stones are differentiated.

For example, if you opt for a D color grade diamond with faint to medium fluorescence, then you can experience a natural reflection from the stone. There is no chance for it to appear a bluish shade when exposed to sunlight and UV lights.

Another side, for an engagement ring, you select strong fluorescence in D color round brilliant cut diamond, then you have to be okay with the blue color effect in the stone's counterparts. Here, there's no treatment available to remove the impact of these blue lights that appear originally in the diamonds.

Chapter - III: The Impact Of Diamond Fluorescence Color

When a diamond has a fluorescence effect, then it has positive attributes for the color grade, such as the diamond appearing white in the natural daylight that balances the yellowish tint. It's essential for the low color grade diamonds to emerge as more colorless.

Also, aside from the appearance, with strong blue fluorescence diamonds are available at the lowest cost compared to none fluorescence. As a result, it has been mostly selected in fancy bracelets and necklaces. The blue colored lights reflected only in the UV light explosion and sunlight contacts, but not all diamonds have these effects in their counterparts.

Fluorescence is the attribute of the stone that sometimes appears and sometimes does not. It's very usual even with the precious raw mined diamonds. When you opt for the fluorescence in the diamond, then consider their impacts. Here, we mentioned the positive and negative effects of the fluoresce.

A. Positive Effects

• Whitish Appearance:

Diamonds with strong blue fluorescence can appear whiter in natural daylight. It can offset the faint yellowish tint often found in lower color grade (I, J, H, K) diamonds, making them appear more colorless. In this color grade, the diamonds usually have a yellow alternative shade to their counterparts, but with the fluoresce, they look like a D color stone.

• Cost Savings

If you're prioritizing the costs of the diamond and want to stay within the limit of budget when selecting a diamond engagement ring, then you can go with a fluorescence diamond. These diamonds contain a bluish tint in their symmetrical balances and are sold at 20 - 30% cheaper than their actual costs.

Diamonds with strong blue fluorescence are often less expensive than their non-fluorescent counterparts of the same color grade. This cost advantage can make them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

B. Negative Effects

• Milky or Cloudy Appearance:

When a buyer selects a diamond for a bracelet or bangle, he needs a better reflection from the stones. The fluorescence of the diamond appeared only in the sunlight and daylight with secondary hues like orange, blue, and yellow. But, other times, it is only a milky or cloudy stone with strong and very strong grade, just like pearl stone.

• Color Distortion:

Sometimes, buyers need to experience only white or fancy color appearance in their diamonds, whether it's a D color grade or a black diamond. But, with the secondary color existence in the natural counterparts, it refuses customers to opt for engagement rings or wedding bands.

• Reduced Rarity:

Fancy colored diamonds like orange, blue, yellow, or pink contain particles of the fluorescence effects in their counterparts. So, when these colored stones gain a strong to very strong grade on the scale, it reduces the rarity value of the precious stones. As a result, many customers prefer to ignore those effects in the color diamonds and opt for the natural shade.

It's crucial to understand that fluorescence doesn't always affect a diamond's GIA's color grade. The GIA color grades diamonds on the D to Z color scale, where D represents a colorless diamond, and Z represents a light yellow or brown diamond. The presence of fluorescence is considered separately from the color grade. This means that a diamond can have strong blue fluorescence and still be assigned a high color grade if it is indeed colorless when viewed under controlled lighting conditions.

Ultimately, the impact of fluorescence on a diamond's overall appearance and desirability depends on individual preferences. Some buyers may prefer diamonds with blue fluorescence for their whiter appearance, while others may be cautious about strong blue grade due to potential cloudiness or color distortion.

Chapter - IV: Diamond Fluorescence Types or Grades

Diamond fluorescence grade is a measurement or assessment of the strength and color of secondary shades that exist in the stone. Fluorescence is visible in the UV light emission when it comes into contact with the diamond's crystal and evokes alternative hues like orange, blue, yellow, and white. It is a characteristic that can influence a diamond's overall appearance and is typically evaluated on a scale that ranges from "None" to "Very Strong."

The diamond fluorescence grades are mentioned below.

1. None Fluorescence
2. Faint Fluorescence
3. Medium Fluorescence
4. Strong Fluorescence
5. Very Strong Fluorescence

1. None Fluorescence Graded Diamonds

None fluorescence graded diamonds does not contain any shade of blue or other alternative hues in their counterparts. These diamonds cost more than a strong blue fluorescent diamond, even with the D color grade. This grade indicates that the diamond shows no emission under UV light. The absence of fluorescence is often considered a desirable feature, especially for high-quality colorless diamonds (D to F on the GIA color scale).

These fluorescence graded diamonds are the ideal choice for solitaire rings where only one stone exists, and they ensure an excellent appearance on your loved one's fingers. Every diamond shapes a perfect choice for the rings, whether a cushion or a radiant cut. Consider a D color grade diamond, or if you need a special appearance, select a chocolate diamond.

2. Faint Fluorescence Grade Diamonds

Diamonds with faint fluorescence mean a stone reflects a small amount of visible light that is different from the original sparkle. This level of fluorescence is usually not visible to the naked eye; it demands a microscopic evaluation from the professional jeweler. Referring to the cost and appearance impact, the originality of these grade diamonds slightly affects. As a result, with their fancy colors, these diamonds are frequently selected to get the best look in the jewelry pieces.

The halo engagement ring design is an ideal choice for the faint fluorescence grade diamond whether you opt for a round brilliant cut or a heart shaped stone. Aside from the halo rings, you can select these stones for the hoop earrings or a bangle, too. Prefers at least 1.00 to 4.00 carat weight that appears sufficient on personality, and if you select them for gifting to someone, then be ready to make that moment memorable.

3. Medium Fluorescence Grade Diamonds

Diamond with medium fluorescence represents a moderate amount of the sparkle reflected in the UV light and sunlight explosion. Mostly, I to L color grade diamonds obtain medium fluorescence just because of their counterpart existence with the secondary hues.

If you think these light emissions will affect the original appearance of the stone, then don't go that way interpretation. You can assess the difference in the light's reflection in separate conditions, which will inform you about the effects on the appearance.

A slightly blue colored effect will look good in three-stone diamond rings, and it can be selected for the wedding eternity bands, too. Compared to the cost of the medium fluorescence diamond, it will be less than a none to faint grade. Thus, when it has been selected with a colorless grade diamond, the bluish appearance rarely appears with the naked eye. Also, for a better evaluation of light emissions, inspect it in the different UV atmospheres. 

4. Strong Fluorescence Diamond

When a diamond appears bluish, different from its colorless appearance from exposure to UV lights, then it's a strong fluorescence diamond. The yellow tint existence in the diamond influences the stone to look milky and hazy, which does not affect the sparkle at a high level. However, some amounts of the reflections might be disturbed by the blue color.

In necklaces and bracelets, strong fluorescence diamonds are used because they're cost-effective and able to give beautiful sparkle reflections. You can opt for an affordable and cost-effective diamond engagement ring with 2.00 - 3.00 carat weights.

With the additional blue color effect, it seems to be like blue diamonds, and the jewelry appears beautiful and ideal for the personality. It's the best gift from you to your wife. So, if you opted for a dark blue diamond for a bracelet, then you can select this fluorescence grade that doesn't impact the natural look of your jewelry.

While you want more sparkle, especially in blue color, don't go for fancy colored diamonds. You can experience the blue color appearance in the strong fluorescence diamonds. If you plan to offer your spouse an engagement or promise ring on the beach at sunset, these fluorescence grade stones truly deliver your romantic message in her ears.

5. Very Strong Fluorescence

When diamond appeared fully cloudy and purplish colored in the sunlight and UV lights then it's a very strong fluorescence grade diamond. The reflection intensity of the visible light emmision of these diamonds remains exceptionally high. If you prefer a ideal appearance in the jewelry then neglect the very strong fluorescence diamonds whether it's a emerald cut stone or a fancy pear shaped diamond.

If you have a tight budget to shop a diamond engagement ring for women then you can select a very strong blue fluorescence diamonds because it sold at 10 - 30% cheaper than a none fluorescence grade. Another side, if fancy color diamond is your choice then pick then vivid to deep shade intensified stones ahead of the faint colors. So, when your diamond jewelry contacted with the sunlight the subsidiairy hues not be appeared visually.

Chapter - V: How To Determine The Fluorescence For Diamonds?

The fluorescence effect of the diamond usually appears in the blue and yellow colors when it comes into the radar of sunlight, natural daylight, or maybe the UV light explosion. When the lights fell on the diamond, the stone appeared milky or hazy visually. For example, diamonds with a very strong fluorescence are mostly featured with a milky whitish appearance that is totally different from their original counterparts.

If you don't know what the faint fluorescence grade diamond is or which one has a very strong fluorescence, then you have to see the chart. In the diamond fluorescence chart and scale, you can see the visual difference between the different grades.

Chapter - VI: What Does It Mean When Diamonds Glow In Backlight?

When a diamond glows blue color in the backlight, then this effect is called "fluorescence," which is not a sign of any post-growth treatment, but it shows the natural attribute of the stone. Even in the lab-grown diamonds, this effect appears naturally without any addition. The fluorescence effects measure from the range of none to very strong, as per their intensity with a blue or secondary color.

Chapter - VII: Is Diamond Fluorescence Good or Bad?

Diamond fluorescence is not good or bad, but it appears naturally. When UV light falls on the surface of the stone, the diamond surface starts to turn into a blue or yellow color. This is not a sign of any defect in the diamond, but it helps the low color graded diamonds to appear more colorless, increasing the overall value.

Chapter - VIII: Tips To Consider For Diamond Fluorescence Grades

When purchasing a diamond with flourescence, some tips and points must be considered for an easy and flexible buying experience, such as prioritizing personal preference, picking the correct color grade in diamonds, and trusting reputable and professional jewelers.

The first thing is personal preference because some people prefer to shop a diamonds with no fluorescence because they're looking for a natural appearance. While others search for the colorful reflection that fluorescence has. Thus, decide which one you like to opt for your jewelry. Also, check the fluorescence effects in the different lightning atmospheres to know the stone's overall appearance.

The second tip is to pick the correct color grade in diamonds. The fluorescence effects can be hidden in the UV lights with an ideal color grade (D to J). So, if you don't want to lose the sparkle reflection of the diamond, choose the D to J color grade in rectangular or square shape.

The last tip is to consult a reputable and professional jeweler or gemologists who will guide you to select the perfect diamond fluorescence grade for your jewelry and inform the impact of the effects of fluorescence.

Want to talk one on one with us, then book a Virtual Appointment or Contact Us. We can surely help you to meet your favorite diamond.

Chapter - IX: Where Diamond Fluorescence Grade Described?

The diamond fluorescence grades are described from none to very strong in the GIA, IGI, AGS, and EGL certificates. You can insist on getting a certification to know the unbiased and perfect evaluation of the diamond in UV lights. With the fluorescence grade determination, you can know how much the diamond's sparkles are reflected and affected by the blue hues.

Chapter - X: Final call

Buying a diamond with fluorescence is the most important factor to be considered because it affects the costs and appearance. In this guide, you seen the meaning of the diamond fluorescences, its importance, the grades, the impact on the cost, and the tips. Knowing these factors, you can make more informed and perfect decisions when shopping for a diamond in an online store or visiting the showroom.

The decision on the diamond fluorescence grade selection depends on the personal preference that complies with the budget and lifestyle. Picking the perfect fluorescence grade diamond changed from the jewelry that you opted for. Also, understand your requirements from the diamond and then select a particular fluorescence. 

Chapter - XI: FAQ's

Q1. What is diamond fluorescence?

Diamond fluorescence is when a diamond shows a glow under UV light. This light is often blue, however it may be different colors depending on the components present in the diamond.

Q2. How Does Fluorescence Affect Diamond Look?

Fluorescence may make diamonds with a faint yellow color appear whiter in certain light, but too much of it can make the diamond appear dark or greasy, reducing the sparkle.

Q3. Is diamond fluorescence good or bad?

Diamond fluorescence is not always good or harmful. It is up to your own preferences and the diamond in question. While it can improve the look of some diamonds, it can also reduce their clarity.

Q4. What are the fluorescence grades in diamonds?

Diamond fluorescence grades are None, Faint, Medium, Strong, and Very Strong. These grades indicate how much a diamond sparkles under UV light.

Q5. Does Fluorescence Affect Diamond Cost?

Yes, diamonds with no or little fluorescence are frequently more expensive, especially if they are also rich in color. Diamonds with high fluorescence are generally less expensive because some people consider the light as a fault.

Q6. Should I avoid diamonds that fluoresce?

Choosing to exclude fluorescent diamonds is entirely up to personal choice. If you like a more pure-looking diamond, you may choose for one without fluorescence. If you're seeking for a unique look under UV light, a fluorescent diamond may be exciting.

Q7. Can Fluorescence Be Seen Under All Lighting Conditions?

No, diamond fluorescence can only be seen under UV light, which is not often a common light source. It is not clear in typical lighting settings such as sunlight or most indoor lights.

Q8. How is fluorescence Tested in diamonds?

Diamonds are tested for fluorescence by exposing them to ultraviolet light. This test is performed at laboratories like as GIA, and the results are recorded on the diamond's grading certificate.

Q9. What Should I Consider When Buying a Fluorescent Diamond?

Consider how the diamond looks in different lighting, especially if it has high fluorescence. Consider your own taste for the look of diamonds under UV light and how this may affect their value.

Q10.Where Can I Find a Diamond's Fluorescence Grade?

You can find a diamond's fluorescence grade on its grading certificate from trusted labs like the GIA, AGS, or IGI. Before purchase, always verify the certificate to ensure that you understand all of the diamond's attributes.