Thursday, May 7, 2015

Argyle Vs. GIA Diamond Color Grading

When selecting a diamond, it is important to consider a variety of factors, including the cut, carat size, clarity and color. To determine the color of the diamond, use either the Argyle or Gemological Institute of America (GIA) color grading scale.

Identification

    The Argyle Diamonds Mines created the Argyle color scale exclusively for champagne diamonds, although it has been revised to grade other colors as well. The GIA color grading system is used to grade all diamonds, regardless of their color.

Function

    The GIA grading system expresses the color of the diamond by using several of the diamond's attributes, including the hue, tone and saturation. The Argyle scale applies a diamond grading according to the intensity of their color.

Argyle Scale

    The Argyle scale rates champagne diamonds on a graded scale of C1 to C7. The C1 grade represents the lightest champagne color, while the C7 is the darkest and most intense color (fancy cognac).

GIA Scale

    The GIA grading scale rates diamonds on a scale ranging from D to Z. Grades D through F are "colorless," G through J are "near colorless," K through M are "faint yellow," N through R are "very light yellow" and S through Z are "light yellow."

Expert Insight

    According to the GIA website, the GIA color grading system is used across the world. However, the Argyle scale is commonly used to grade pink and champagne diamonds.

0 comments:

Post a Comment