K Color Diamonds: What Do They Look Like, And Are They Worth Buying?

In ancient times, it's a question the Sphinx might have asked: When is "diamond color" different than "colored diamonds"? The answer is 100% of the time. Diamond color is one of the most important concepts to understand when shopping for a diamond engagement ring. Even seemingly white diamonds have their color graded on a scale. And a diamond's grade has a real effect on the price you pay for a ring.

Like everything else when it comes to engagement ring shopping, the diamond grade you select depends on your personal preference. Choosing a loose diamond lower on the color spectrum can be one way to save money on an engagement ring, but some of those color grades spark a debate. K color diamonds have certain pros and cons — depending on your definition of "pros" and "cons" — that are worth knowing about.

What are K color diamonds?

Diamonds are graded on a spectrum: D through F diamonds are considered colorless; G through L diamonds are "near colorless;" and diamonds classed M through Z have traces of color. With Clarity only carries diamonds graded D through L because we want you to shop with the confidence of knowing you’re going to get a brilliant stone.

K obviously falls in the middle of this range. That probably makes you wonder how much, if any, color you’ll be able to see on these stones in person. K color diamonds have a tinge of color — a fact that comes with some caveats.

Do K color diamonds look yellow?

K color diamonds have a slightly yellow tone. But that's mostly when they're examined in specific light, such as those used in testing. Some K color diamonds appear white when they're viewed face-up. Some K color diamonds can also have a slightly brown hue. Yellow is more sought after than brown, however.

Keep in mind that very few diamonds are totally white, or colorless. Most diamonds have some trace of color, and they aren't inherently less stunning than colorless diamonds. Sometimes it’s so slight that you’d only notice if you held the diamond next to a truly colorless stone. And the setting you choose can have a big effect on a diamond's overall impact, regardless of the grade.

Some brides-to-be love a diamond with a slight hue because of the warmth it imparts. Again, it's all about personal taste.

How to make K color diamonds look whiter

If you'd like to make a K color diamond appear whiter, a yellow gold band can make diamonds with a slight yellow tinge appear more white. The principle here: You want less contrast between the stone and band, because more contrast will make the diamond's color stand out. Rose gold is also a good setting for K color diamonds, but because of its sunny hue, a yellow gold band is ideal.

You can also choose specific diamond cuts to minimize color. Round cut diamonds display the least color; their brilliant facets can mask a diamond's inherently darker tinge. A pear-shaped diamond will show a bit more tint, because light catches in its base. (Any shape with tapered edges, like ovals, pears, and marquise diamonds, will show more color in these tips because of the shallow depth.)

Cushion cut diamonds can show the most color, depending on its type of faceting. With one that has larger and more open facets, color can show more easily. Take a close look at your diamond to decide, and have a gemologist explain to you which kind of faceting it has.

Are K color diamonds worth buying?

Absolutely! K color diamonds can be a great way to save money on your ring. You can save even more money if you look for a brown-tinted K color diamond that looks white, face up.

The easiest way to do that? It's all about looking at your potential diamond close up — With Clarity enables you to do that with videos and magnified images — to get a good idea of how saturated the color is. Don’t see a video for a diamond you’re eyeing? You can request one. An expert gemologist is your BFF here; With Clarity has them on staff, ready to help. Contact one today.

But maybe you're not there yet. We get it! If you're just figuring out what you want our expert gemologists can still help in the search. Tell us a little about what you think you want in a diamond and your budget. Then our experts will hunt down three sparkly stones they think are matches for your tastes and budget. These personalized recommendations are delivered straight to your inbox, no phone call required!