What Is Diamond Fluorescence?
Fluorescence in a diamond means that under the irradiation of strong ultraviolet light, the electrons in the diamond carbon atoms are stimulated by the high-frequency energy, and then transformed into light energy, thereby emitting visible blue light or other colors of light.
In normal daylight, diamond fluorescence is almost invisible and can only be distinguished when exposed to strong ultraviolet light at close range. Diamond fluorescence is not a grading item, but a characteristic description. However, it still has a certain impact on the value of diamonds, especially in diamonds with strong fluorescence, some of them may appear less transparent, making them hazy and milky.
According to GIA statistics, about 25%-35% of natural diamonds exhibit varying degrees of fluorescence, of which 90% emit blue light, and the rest emit light of other colors, such as yellow, red, orange, white and green, etc. However, HPHT lab grown diamonds typically emit yellow to greenish-yellow under UV irradiation.
Please be assured that the fluorescence of diamonds is only an optical phenomenon. This reaction is not radioactive and has no negative impact on the human body.
Fluorescence Levels
(1) None
(2) Faint
(3) Medium
(4) Strong
(5) Very Strong
The Impact of Fluorescence on Diamonds
It can be roughly divided into two categories：
D-I color diamonds – The stronger the fluorescence, the greater the chance that the diamond will appear cloudy, thus negatively affecting the price.
J or below color diamonds – Comparing diamonds of the same color grade, those with blue fluorescence may visually reduce the yellow tone of the diamond and make the diamond appear less yellowish.
Choosing a Diamond with Fluorescence?
In daylight, faint or medium level of fluorescence has negligible effect on the appearance of diamonds. And diamonds of any color, with fluorescence reaction, are generally less expensive, which can help save customers’ budgets. On the other hand, some customers will be attracted by the interesting feature of the fluorescent reaction. The type of diamond to choose is always a matter of personal preference.
