WHAT IS FLUORESCENCE IN A DIAMOND?
Fluorescence in a diamond under UV light
Diamonds' most crucial characteristic, fluorescence, is often misunderstood. You might be curious to know the reason? You might have noticed the term "fluorescence" on the diamond certificate before the diamond purchase. And undoubtedly, you had thought if the diamond fluorescence is a good or bad thing.
Actually, fluorescence is responsible for emitting a soft blue-coloured glow from the diamond when ultraviolet (UV) light falls on it. You would be surprised to know that sunlight is the source of UV light exposure to us daily. Moreover, fluorescent light bulbs also emit UV light daily. The presence of nitrogen is a reason behind the fluorescence, and nearly one-third of all gem-grade diamonds are affected by this natural characteristic.
TWO FACTORS NAMELY THE COLOUR AND STRENGTH SHOULD BE CONSIDERED WHEN LOOKING AT A DIAMOND’S FLUORESCENCE
The degree of fluorescence in a diamond, from None to Very Strong as seen under UV light
THE FLUORESCENCE COLOUR IN A DIAMOND
Do you know blue fluorescence (95%) followed by yellow is the most common? However, fluorescence in other colours is rare. Blue fluoresces makes diamond to appear whiter than its true body colour. Thus, the colour quality of a diamond will enhance than the actual ones. On the other hand, yellow fluorescence in UV light will lower the colour quality of the diamond. In turn, the appearance of the diamond will fade.
THE FLUORESCENCE STRENGTH IN A DIAMOND
Fluorescence intensity is another essential element, ranging from zero, mild to intense, and very strong. According to GIA analysis, the intensity of fluorescence has no discernible effect on the vast majority of diamonds' appearance.
Even under standard lighting conditions, some diamonds have robust fluorescence and appear oily or cloudy, leading to a diamond with a dull appearance.
BUYING A DIAMOND? QUESTIONS TO ASK ABOUT A DIAMOND’S FLUORESCENCE
Before buying a diamond, it's essential to understand what fluorescence is and how it affects the gem's overall appearance. Ask yourself the following questions to learn more about fluorescence:
A diamond’s fluorescence is noted on a GIA Grading Report
When viewed in natural daylight, fluorescence may positively or negatively affect the colour and overall appearance of a colourless diamond. In direct sunlight, colourless diamonds having high colour grading (D, E, or F) with mild to strong fluorescence may appear "oily" or "cloudy."
On the other hand, Because of the masking effect of blue fluorescence, diamonds with a low colour grading (around I or J), particularly those having a yellowish tint, can have one or two grade better colour appearance.
DOES FLUORESCENCE AFFECT THE VALUE OF A DIAMOND?Fluorescence has a different influence on the value of a colourless diamond depending on its intensity and colour. Diamond prices can be lowered by a strong yellow fluorescence, whereas a blue fluorescence with a yellowish tone may help boost prices.
DOES YOUR DIAMOND HAVE FLUORESCENCE?You can confirm the florescent ability of your diamond by viewing your diamond certificate. The fluorescence in a diamond can be clearly specified in GIA-certified diamonds. Your diamond does not show fluorescence if it’s marked as "none" on the certificate. On the other hand, the certificate will clearly mention ‘faint’, ‘medium’, ‘strong’ or ‘very strong’ if your diamond is fluorescent.
While selecting the diamond, fluorescent should not be your selection criteria. Many people prefer a non-fluorescent diamond over a fluorescent diamond. Actually, your selection criteria should be diamonds’ visual characteristics rather than fluorescent which is a natural phenomenon. In the end, it’s up to personal preference when it comes to the overall look of a diamond.
Visit the surprising Cape Town Diamond Museum at the Clock Tower, Waterfront to know some other fascinating facts about diamonds. Book your personally guided tour today.