Did you know that diamonds come in a variety of colors? Yes, it’s true. They range from completely colorless to having a strong yellow tint and even include extremely rare fancy diamonds, such as red diamonds. Among these, the diamond color H is a notable color grade.
Before we delve into what H color diamond means, it’s important to understand the diamond color grading scale. Developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), this scale starts with the letter D for colorless diamonds. It ends with the letter Z, which represents diamonds with a light brown or yellow hue.
The color of a diamond affects both its quality and price. That’s why knowing about different diamond colors is important when buying men’s or women’s diamond jewelry.
Read: Diamond Grading Scale
What is a H Color Diamond?
H color diamonds rank fifth on the GIA’s scale and fall within the G-J range, categorized as near colorless. It has a faint yellow tint when viewed against a white background or in bright light but is generally unnoticeable to the naked eye. However, this tint might become noticeable when compared to diamonds in the D-F color range, which are colorless.
The G-J color range is often considered the best option, offering the perfect balance between price and quality. Diamonds within this range appear nearly colorless but are considerably more affordable than those in the colorless category.
Read: Why Are Diamonds So Hard?
Do H Color Diamonds Look Yellow?
H color diamonds appear colorless when viewed from the top. The slight yellow tint they possess is usually unnoticeable unless viewed under certain lighting or when compared to higher-grade, colorless diamonds.
Even diamonds up to the J grade can appear colorless under various lighting conditions. While the difference in color between consecutive grades is subtle, the difference in price can be significant.
Also Read: Diamond Clarity and Color Chart
How to Make H Color Diamonds Look Whiter
Although the slight yellow tint in an H color diamond is barely noticeable, the choice of metal in which the diamond is set can either highlight or downplay this tint. For example, setting an H color diamond in white gold or platinum might emphasize the tint due to the contrast with the lighter metal color. However, setting it in yellow gold can make the diamond appear more colorless.
How To Choose H Color Diamonds
When selecting a diamond, you have to consider the 4c’s of diamond – cut, color, clarity and carat. For H color diamonds, the cut is particularly important as it can influence the visibility of the yellow tint. Here are some tips to consider when choosing a H Color diamond:
Best Cuts For A H Color Diamond
As mentioned earlier, picking the right cut for your H color diamond can help you mask or accentuate its tint. Round-cut diamonds are the best as they reflect more light and barely show any color difference. Oval, pear and princess cuts are other good options to consider – basically any shapes with more facets as they reflect more light.
The cushion cut, on the other hand, will accentuate the color of the diamond.
Read: Types of Diamond Cuts
Best Settings For A H Color Diamond
Larger stones can make the color more noticeable so the size and setting of the diamond are also important considerations. Consider H color diamonds and pave settings – the smaller accent stones can enhance the appearance of the center stone, making it look brighter and whiter. Other settings to consider are H color diamonds and side stones or H color diamonds and halo.
If you choose a solitaire ring, you don’t have to worry as the diamond will shine by itself. However, pick the right metal to conceal or emphasize the color of the diamond.
Best Accent Stones For a H Color Diamond
If the jewelry you’re getting features accent stones or side stones opt for lower color-grade diamonds. Lower-grade accents or side stones can enhance the center stone’s appearance.
Value of a H Color Diamond
H-color diamonds are part of the near-colorless range, and are popular for their excellent balance between quality and cost. A one-carat H color diamond price ranges anywhere around $5,500, which is up to 40% less than a D color diamond. This price, however, can vary based on other H diamond qualities like cut and clarity.
For those on a tighter budget, lab-grown diamonds are a cost-effective alternative. These diamonds are chemically, optically and physically identical to natural diamonds. The only difference is that they’re created in a lab and not mined from the earth.
Read: Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds
FAQs
1. How much do H color diamonds cost?
A one-carat H color diamond costs around $5,500, depending on cut and clarity.
2. Should I buy an H color diamond?
If you’re seeking a balance between quality and price, H color diamonds are an excellent choice, particularly for engagement rings.
3. Is H or J a better diamond color?
The difference between H and J is minor as both are ‘near colorless’. Your choice may depend on other priorities like cut or clarity.
4. Does a diamond with an H color grade exhibit sparkle?
Absolutely! H color diamonds sparkle brilliantly because of their minimal color tint.
5. Is an H color diamond good?
H color diamonds are popular and valued for their quality and affordability.
6. How rare are H diamonds?
H color diamonds are not rare, but they are highly sought after for their value and appearance.
