COLOR — Fifty Shades of Almost White

Less color = higher grade (D–Z). Clarity runs FL–I3. The trick is choosing what looks clean and bright to the eye—not just on paper.

Two “G” diamonds can look different: one nudges toward F, the other toward H. And many VS2 stones look identical to VVS1 to the naked eye. Fluorescence? Often a cost-friendly bonus that makes lower colors look whiter.

  • Color: D–F for icy white; G–H for excellent value and a “white on the hand” look.
  • Clarity: Best value in VS1–VS2; consider SI1–SI2 if eye-clean (always inspect).
  • Fluorescence can help lower colors appear whiter and cost less.
  • Judge stones side-by-side under good lighting; don’t buy by letters alone.
Pro tip: Spend where your eyes notice it most: cut first, then pick color/clarity that look clean to you in person.
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