Naturally, diamonds are found in both colorless and colored forms. Most people are familiar with colorless diamonds and the grading system used to identify the body color of the diamond (D-Z color range).
This grading system identifies the most common yellow body color of diamond. However, outside of the D-Z color range, the diamonds are also present in other colors like red, pink, green, and blue, and are called Fancy Colored Diamonds (FCDs).
Natural FCDs are very rare as compared to white diamonds. Usually, only few people other than royalty can afford them. The rarer of the FCDs are either with kinks or at the museums. One example of natural FCD is the Hope Diamond, displayed at the Washington, DC’s Smithsonian Natural History Museum.
Color enhanced diamonds are hundred percent natural diamonds with their root color changed. They are less expensive and more affordable. They are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.
History of Color Enhancement
Previously, they used to ‘improve’ the color of diamonds by adding a small amount of a colored substance and the diamond having a visible yellowish color turned nearly colorless which appeared more attractive. However, this kind of diamond could lose its coating unintentionally and change its body color back to original.
Recently, with the advancements in the technology, the color enhancement techniques have also improved. Now, it has become possible to completely change the color of a diamond. There are processes that ensure that the hard rock does not lose its color with time, or due to exposure to sunlight and chemicals. Now, it is possible to permanently change the color of the diamonds.
How is it done?
There are three different processes in practice currently to enhance the color of the diamonds. The main motive behind such color enhancements is to increase the marketability of the diamonds. The science of color enhancement also needs some art with the process to achieve consistent results. The three processes for color enhancement of diamonds are coating, HPHT, and irradiation.
So, Is Purchasing A Color Enhanced Diamond Right Choice for You?
Natural FCDs are beautiful, rare, and expensive. Not many can afford them. You can go for a color enhanced diamond to have your own dazzling FCD at an affordable price without spending a fortune on it. What you need to know is what you are buying is a diamond and not a simulant. For that you should ask the jeweler to give you the authentic grading report for that rock.
Now, remember GIA does not endorse the color enhanced diamonds that are not treated permanently or are unstable. So, you will not get a GIA report for a coated diamond. It is the responsibility of your jeweler to disclose it to you that you are getting a treated diamond. One tip is always to go for the gemstone that has proper certification of authenticity.