Diamonds that are colorless are more valued than those that have color. In fact, diamonds that are colored are considered to be more flawed than their clearer cousins. To rate the level of a diamonds color, retailers and diamond experts use a scale that begins with the letter D, and progresses alphabetically. Why not start with the letter A? It seems that when diamonds were first being graded on their colorlessness, people wanted to leave room for the possibility of a simply flawless, perfect diamond. So the best diamond known at that point was given the letter D, with A, B, and C being left in reserve for a possible marvel that might be discovered. No A, B, or C diamonds have ever been found.

The diamonds that are hardest to find are the ones with the least color. The letters D, E, and F are reserved for them. Between these three levels there is only the minutest difference, which is all but invisible to anyone but an expert in gems. G and H diamonds are labeled as near colorless, and a layperson can tell the difference between them and higher grade diamonds. G-H diamonds can be a very good value. Diamonds that are graded between I and J are also called near colorless, but they have a bit more color than G and H. These also can be had at times for a very good value.

The color letters progress all the way to the letter Z, the level of color increasing along the way. As letters get closer to the end of the alphabet, their quality decreases. It is important to not that the color scale for is for white diamonds, and that it doesn't apply to diamonds, which are colored.

Colored diamonds are very much sought after by gem-collectors, while discolored white diamonds are not. When two types of diamonds are paired together, the result can be marvelous. The Hope Diamond, perhaps the most famous diamond in the world, is for instance a deep blue color set on a chain with white diamonds. Of all diamonds that are colored, the rarest are red diamonds.

Diamonds get their coloring from mineral impurities that are found in the cells that make up their crystal structure. Technically, these are defects, but they still can be pleasing to the eye. Some of the colors that diamonds can be labeled are brown, purple to pink, green, red, yellow, orange, blue, gray, white, and black.

Take your time when purchasing a diamond. The time you spend will likely save you money and you will be able to find the diamond of your dreams that is within your budget.