Have you ever went bowling during Rockin’ Bowl where they played fun music and had black lights on the lanes? Did your diamond ring emit a bluish, ethereal glow? What you witnessed is called fluorescence!
Simply put, fluorescence is the bluish light emitted by a diamond when exposed to ultraviolet light. The most common color is the bluish glow, although, in rare cases, a yellow or orangy light can occur, but only about 25% to 35% of diamonds will actually fluoresce. The Gemological Institute of America’s diamond grading reports grade the intensity of the fluorescence as None, Faint, Medium, Strong, or Very Strong.
So, is Fluorescence good or bad?? Well, that is up to you! Sunlight does contain ultraviolet light, so it is possible to see fluorescence in a diamond, but according to a study done by The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), most people don’t see fluorescence under daylight ( https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/blog/diamond-fluorescence-good-bad/ ). When a diamond is graded as having Strong or Very Strong fluorescence, I have seen it in daylight, and my personal thought as a Graduate Gemologist, is that it isn’t bad. In fact, I have seen diamonds that had a lower color grade but had fluorescence and it helped the diamond face up with a whiter look. As far as price goes, generally, fluorescence is seen as a defect and will bring your diamond price down a little bit. And, that’s not a bad thing!
But again, it is up to you! I always advocate for seeing your diamond in person before buying it because you have the opportunity to see the things that bother you or don’t bother you. If you saw fluorescence in a diamond and you didn’t like it, then pick another! Maybe you are the type of person who is looking for a magical, ethereal glow in you diamond, then I’d suggest one with Very Strong fluorescence!
There are many nuances to picking out the diamond that takes your breath away yet also fits in your budget! I have been helping clients through the process for 23 years, and I’d love to help you find the jewelry your dreams! Your appointments with me are always one-on-one so that you are not shopping with a room full of people when picking out a special gift. Book your private appointment with me today! www.angelacisneros.com/book-appointment
Photo credit: gia.edu