Understanding the subtle glow that sets some diamonds apart
When exploring the world of diamonds, you may have come across the term fluorescence. It’s a characteristic that often raises questions: what does it mean, and does it affect a diamond’s quality or value?
What is Diamond Fluorescence?
Fluorescence refers to the glow a diamond emits when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Around a third of all natural diamonds display some degree of fluorescence, most commonly appearing as a blue glow. Think of how a white shirt glows under UV light at a disco, the same thing happens with some diamonds, just on a much smaller scale.
Is Fluorescence Good or Bad?
The answer depends on the diamond itself. For colourless to near-colourless diamonds (graded D to I), fluorescence can sometimes influence appearance.
- The good: Diamonds with fluorescence are often priced slightly lower, making them an attractive option for buyers seeking more value.
- The not so good: In some cases, diamonds with medium to strong fluorescence can appear oily or milky in direct sunlight or under other light sources that contain UV. This hazy effect is only temporary and disappears once the diamond is removed from that light.
How Gregory Jewellers Approaches Fluorescence
At Gregory Jewellers, our diamond specialists take fluorescence into careful consideration when assessing each stone. While fluorescence is not inherently negative, our recommendation for colourless to near-colourless diamonds is none to faint fluorescence. This ensures the diamond retains its natural brilliance in all lighting conditions, from boutique showroom to bright summer sunlight.
The Gregory Jewellers Standard
Every diamond at Gregory Jewellers is hand-selected to meet our standards of beauty, clarity, and sparkle. Our experts look beyond certificates to ensure that each diamond performs perfectly to the eye, offering brilliance that lasts a lifetime.
