Most of you must have closely scrutinised the 4C’s of diamonds while purchasing one, but what about its fluorescence? Some of you may be wondering what fluorescence is? Well, many people are unfamiliar with the term- fluorescence, which is nothing but a characteristic of diamond outside of its 4C’s.
Even if you know, the term is often misunderstood or misinterpreted. This might have created a tide of doubt in your mind. But, fret not! We are here to solve all your doubts regarding diamond’s fluorescence. We have tried to make the whole process a smidge easier by outlining minutest details. So, let’s get started!
First thing first- What is Fluorescence?
Fluorescence is the tendency of a diamond to emit colour when exposed to Ultraviolet Light Rays (UV) coming from the sun or a fluorescent lamp. And, almost 30% to 35% of the diamonds exhibit fluorescence to some degree.
Reason behind Fluorescence
Fluorescence in the diamond occurs due to the traces of boron, aluminium, or nitrogen present in the atomic structure. When they encounter UV light, the electrons in the atom absorb the energy and emit it back in different colours ranging from blue to slightly yellow and orange.
Diamond Fluorescence Rating
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) does not consider fluorescence as important as 4C’s; however, they do mention its rating.
Just like every other quality, fluorescence is judged on an increasing scale- from ‘none’ to ‘very strong’.
Other indicators in between the two extremes are ‘faint’, ‘medium’, and ‘strong’ If you purchase a diamond with GIA report, then you will see one of these ratings against a fluorescence column.
Can You Differentiate between Diamonds with and without Fluorescence
If a person looks at the diamond from upside down position, fluorescence might not be visible. Nevertheless, if the diamond is viewed from right side up, an average knowledgeable person can spot the difference between strong to very strong fluorescence and no fluorescence.
You can take your diamond to jewellery manufacturer in Hong Kong for getting it examined by experts. Or you can ask the seller at KGK to show your diamonds under controlled UV lamps for identifying fluorescence presence.
Effect of Fluorescence on the Value of Diamond
Fluorescence can enhance or detract the beauty of the diamond, depending on the grade. High grade diamonds (D-F) having high or medium fluorescent can appear hazy and hence, they will be on a cheaper side as these are perceived as defective. Provided that the colour is not readily visible, these diamonds offer good value for money.
If the diamonds of I-M colour exhibit fluorescence, then they appear one grade whiter. So, they may have a higher per carat price than those with no fluorescence in the same category.
In a nutshell, the effect of fluorescence is dependent on the grade of the diamond and the knowledge to navigate them.
Should I Buy a Fluorescence Diamond?
The decision of buying a diamond is solely dependent on personal preferences. Fluorescence is not a bad or negative aspect, but depending on the presence, you may get a discount as high as 25%. All you need to make sure is that the retailer informs you about fluorescence.
If you are still unsure about buying them; visit KGK for procuring diamonds of the highest quality. We have got a wide range of diamonds excavated from the finest mines of South Africa.
