Diamond Fluorescence

Diamond Fluorescence
What exactly does the term diamond 'Fluorescence' mean?  Definition: A glow which emanates from certain diamonds when exposed to ultraviolet light. What causes this effect? It is caused by trace amounts of Boron in the diamond. Fluorescence is not usually desirable in a white diamond as it gives a hazy effect but it can improve the appearance of diamonds that possess traces of some colors. The most common fluorescent color is blue which can make yellowish diamonds look white or colorless. When selecting a diamond it is best to choose a diamond that ideally has no fluorescent color or is just faintly or slightly fluorescent.

The Effect of Diamond Fluorescence
What is the effect of Diamond Fluorescence or glow? The diamond appears to change color - like a white shirt in a discotheque. Faint or medium fluorescence will rarely affect the color of a diamond but those with a high level may appear cloudy, hazy or even oily, badly affecting the sparkle, and are therefore less desirable. This is an extremely important factor to take into consideration when buying diamonds from a jewelry store.

Impact of Fluorescence on White Diamonds
This is not usually desirable in white diamonds due to the hazy, oily or cloudy effect it has. The scale or grade for colorless diamonds goes from 'D' (meaning colorless - the most expensive diamonds) to 'Z' (meaning dark yellow - the cheapest). The most common fluorescent color is blue which can mask yellowish diamonds so that they look white or colorless in the lighting often used in jewelry shops. Extremely fluorescent diamonds can usually be purchased for 30% less than diamonds that possess no or slight fluorescence.

Diamonds are Forever...
An Impartial Guide to Diamonds