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How to Grade Yellow Diamonds

Yellow diamonds are often called canary diamonds. The deeper the yellow, the more expensive it is. Once set in yellow gold, yellow diamonds intensify. Color, or hue, is the most important factor when evaluating a yellow diamond. Unlike other diamonds, the color of a yellow diamond is more important than cut or clarity. The clearer the yellow diamond is, the more pure it is, thus the more expensive and rare it is. In addition, the more saturated the color, and not cloudy, the more valued a diamond it is.

Instructions

- 1
  Grade the diamond based on the color. Low grade yellow diamonds start with the grade "U-V Yellow" and goes up to the top quality grade of "Fancy Vivid Yellow." Unlike regular diamonds, yellow diamonds are graded on the more yellow color they have.
- 2
  Determine how many inclusions, or imperfections, can be seen in your diamond to grade the clarity. The scale for clarity starts with "FL" for flawless and goes down to "I3" which is imperfect. The general rule is, the fewer the inclusions the better the diamond.
- 3
  Choose a cut that fits your style. There is no grade assigned to a cut; it is based on personal preference. However, be aware that certain cuts, like a round cut, show a more brilliant effect than others.
- 4
  Determine the size, or carat, of the diamond. The bigger the diamond the bigger the carat size.
  
  The size is determined by the carat weight and millimeters across the diamond. One carat is 200 milligrams. You can measure the diamond in millimeters across with calipers. Carats can be described in points, as well. Just as there are 100 pennies in a dollar, a one-carat diamond has 100 points; thus, a half-carat diamond has 50 points.

Rocks & Minerals