J Color Diamonds: Do They Look Yellow, And Are They Worth Buying?

Diamond color: It's an important aspect of buying diamonds that you don't hear much about. It's different than shopping for colored, or "fancy," diamonds that come in vibrant hues such as pink or blue. It refers to the fact that not every "white" diamond is the same hue — they're actually graded on a color spectrum. That's a useful thing to know going in to your diamond purchase, because choosing a diamond lower on the color spectrum can be one way to save you money on an engagement ring. Also good to know: Some of those color grades are controversial and the subject of debate among experts. One such grade is the J color diamond.

What are J color diamonds?

Diamonds are graded on a color scale that runs from D to Z, with D being totally colorless and Z denoting a strong yellow hue. G and H diamonds, the most commonly purchased diamonds, sit in the "near colorless" range. J diamonds are at the outer border of that category.

Do J color diamonds look yellow?

Are J diamonds yellow? That's the first question everyone wants answered about a J diamond, and the answer is: yes and no. They have a slightly yellow tone, but in specific light. Some J color diamonds appear white face up. If you're considering one, it's important to look at it from that physical perspective. (Think about how most people examine an engagement ring — they see it from directly above, on the wearer's finger, before squealing and enveloping her in hugs.)

Also important to note: A J color diamond that appears to have a slightly golden cast in a platinum band could appear pure white in a rose gold or yellow gold band.

How to make J color diamonds look whiter

Yes, there are ways to make your diamond look whiter. And though, no, they probably won’t look like that colorless D diamond, you can get them to look a full color grade higher than they are. There are a couple tricks, and most of them also end up saving you money. It’s a win-win.

Choose a rose gold or yellow gold setting. Yellow gold can make diamonds with a slight yellow tinge appear more white — less contrast makes the color less apparent.

Also consider specific cuts. Fancy shaped diamonds (shapes other than round cut) tend to show more color. Pear, oval and marquise cut diamonds show more color near their points and edges. Because they're cut deeper, princess, emerald, Asscher, radiant and cushion cut diamonds reflect more color in the body.

Consider getting a diamond with some fluorescence, too. Although many buyers look down on diamond fluorescence, this underrated characteristic can make slightly yellow diamonds, like J color diamonds, look whiter. And since other shoppers are shunning fluorescence, you also stand to save more money.

And with diamonds of any shape, as the carat weight increases, the appearance of color can be more obvious. Therefore, with larger sizes, it's important to choose higher colors.

J diamonds show the least color in the round brilliant cut. So if you're considering that setting, you might want to give a J diamond some serious consideration.

Are J color diamonds worth buying?

Absolutely yes! They can be a great way to save money on your engagement ring. In fact, dropping from an H to a J color diamond of the same size can save you up to 40% on your diamond.

Ready to start shopping? We're here to help. With Clarity's expert gemologists can help you find the right ring for your life together. They're exceptionally experienced at working with each couple's priorities and budget — contact us now so they can help find the best ring for you.