Fluorescence is one of the lesser understood diamond grades that has sparked many debates among those in the diamond industry. Keep reading as we explain just what diamond fluorescence is, the different types of fluorescence, how fluorescence affects a diamond and where you can find your diamond’s fluorescence.
Get the answers to the following questions:
So, just what is diamond fluorescence, and is it considered good or bad? Fluorescence refers to the soft blue glow that a diamond emits when exposed to ultraviolet light, such as a black light. This blue glow is only temporary and stops once the ultraviolet light is gone. While blue fluorescence is the most common, on rare occasions the soft glow can be yellow, green, red, orange and white.
Fluorescence is caused by trace elements in the diamond and, according to the Gemological Institute of America, about 25% to 30% of diamonds exhibit a degree of fluorescence. Of all of the diamonds that possess fluorescence, the GIA states that only about 10% of these stones have fluorescence can affect the diamond’s appearance. In most cases, people are not able to detect fluorescence with the naked eye.
Now that you know what diamond fluorescence is, let’s cover the degrees of fluorescence. The GIA has detailed five degrees of diamond fluorescence:
Remember, the GIA stated that only 10% of all diamonds that exhibit fluorescence will be visibly affected in non-UV settings. Therefore, of that 10% only a small amount of diamonds (those with a high degree of fluorescence) will be visibly affected by fluorescence.
The main way that fluorescence affects a diamond is by creating a cloudy, milky appearance and affecting the diamond’s value. The cloudy appearance is only noticeable in diamonds with medium, strong or very strong fluorescence. But how does fluorescence affect value?
To understand how fluorescence affects a diamond’s value, we need to understand diamond color grades. Color is one of the 4 C’s of diamond grading and details the amount of color, or lack thereof, that a diamond displays. This is graded on a scale from D, for colorless, to Z, for faint yellow.
Strong blue fluorescence creates the appearance of a whiter stone than it’s color grade. This happens because blue is a complement color to yellow, creating the whiter appearance.
How fluorescence affects diamond value:
If you have a certificate from a reputable diamond grading lab such as the GIA, you can reference this document to find your diamond’s exact fluorescence. If you have a jeweler’s appraisal for your diamond that includes fluorescence, take their grading with a grain of salt.
In reputable labs, expert gemologists assess a diamond’s fluorescence in a highly controlled environment with UV lights and a master set of fluorescent diamonds to best determine a diamond’s grade. Reports from jewelers can be subjective as they depend on the specific jeweler’s skill, environment and tools.
After our deep dive into understanding diamond fluorescence, you might be considering selling or upgrading your diamond. At WP Diamonds, we are expert diamond, luxury jewelry, watch and handbag buyers.
Our entire process can take as little as 24 hours from start to finish. We buy your items directly and for strong prices, with no fees or commissions deducted. Customers love our simple and professional service, as illustrated by of our A+ BBB rating, hundreds of excellent reviews and 100% trust guarantee.
Simply complete our simple online form with information about your pieces. Our team will then contact you with a price quote. If you like your initial quote and want to get a firm offer, you can either:
You can accept payment by wire, check or cash (in-person appointments only).
While all diamonds are mined from the Earth, not all diamonds are created equal. Over the years, diamonds have both mesmerized gemologists and continued to shatter price records. So what are the most expensive...
It’s no secret that diamonds are expensive, but have you ever wondered what the most expensive diamond color is? The answer to this question depends on whether we are discussing white diamonds or fancy colore...
Who hasn’t been charmed by the sparkle of a magnificent diamond? With the numerous diamond shapes on the market, you might have asked yourself, “What is the best diamond shape for sparkle?”. Whether you...
Celebrities influence the fashion landscape more than ever. With social media allowing their fashion choices to be increasingly accessible; it is easier than ever to find out what your favorite celebrities are ...
We guarantee the safety, security, and privacy of your valuables
