Fluorescence

One of the lesser known traits of a diamond is fluorescence. One of the main reasons that this trait is often overlooked is because it rarely effects the appearance of the diamond in normal lighting conditions. Fluorescence is actually the visible light emitted from a diamond exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays. This can make fluorescence a seemingly invisible trait, much like the UV rays themselves. Despite its hidden nature, fluorescence can affect the price of the diamond, and in certain cases it can impact the appearance of the diamond.

Fluorescence is actually made up of two separate grades, an intensity (from None, Very Slight, Slight, Faint, Medium, Strong, Very Strong) and a color (most often blue, in rare instances yellow, white, or another color). That being said, when looking at the fluorescence of a diamond, the intensity is the most important factor.

As stated before, there are instances in which fluorescence can affect the normal appearance of a diamond. The effect can best be described as ‘cloudy, hazy or oily’ and it will appear in certain diamonds with a fluorescence intensity in the ranges of Strong to Very Strong. Luckily, this very rarely occurs, and depending on taste certainly individuals have expressed a preference for a diamond with Medium to Strong fluorescence.

We hope that this information proves helpful in your diamond search. If you have any other questions or concerns feel free to give us a call at 312-920-0075.