Refers to the degree to which a diamond is colourless. 

Colour plays a major role in determining the quality of a diamond. A diamond acts as a prism, dividing light into a spectrum of colours and disperses this light as colourful flashes called ‘fire’.

White diamonds, although appearing colourless, can have slight tones of yellow and brown. As these tones become more easily apparent, the rarity and value of the diamond decreases. D is the highest grade and indicates a completely colourless diamond. J – K  are slightly tinted white – Z indicates a strong yellow tinge.

Strongly coloured diamonds called ‘fancies’ have colours ranging from intense yellow through to blue, green, pink and red. These diamonds are extremely rare and valuable.