Are you considering purchasing a diamond but feeling overwhelmed by the various colours available? One common question often arises in the diamond-buying process is the difference between canary diamonds and yellow diamonds.
Are they the same thing, or are there significant differences?
In this blog post, we'll explore the characteristics of both canary and yellow diamonds and highlight any notable distinctions.
What Are Canary Diamonds?
Canary diamonds are a type of fancy colored diamond known for their bright and vibrant yellow hue. They are named after the canary bird, also known for its beautiful yellow colour.
These diamonds are formed under the same geological conditions as white diamonds, but their distinct yellow colour comes from nitrogen molecules in the crystal lattice structure. The higher the nitrogen concentration, the more intense the yellow colour of the diamond.
Canary diamonds are graded on a colour scale from faint yellow to fancy vivid yellow, with fancy vivid being the most valuable and rarest. T
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) determines the colour grading of a canary diamond based on a comparison of the diamond's colour to a set of master stones with known colour grades.
In addition to their colour, canary diamonds can also exhibit other factors that affect their value and rarity, such as clarity, cut, and carat weight.
Canary diamonds can come in various shapes, including round, cushion, pear, and oval, and they are often used in jewellery such as engagement rings, necklaces, and earrings.
Due to their rarity and beauty, canary diamonds are highly sought after and can command high prices. In fact, some canary diamonds have sold for millions of dollars at auction.
What Are Yellow Diamonds?
Yellow diamonds, also known as fancy yellow diamonds, are another type of coloured diamond highly valued for their vivid yellow colour.
Unlike canary diamonds, yellow diamonds can exhibit a range of yellow shades, from light yellow to intense yellow, depending on the amount of nitrogen in the diamond's crystal lattice.
Yellow diamonds are graded using the same colour grading scale as canary diamonds, with the most valuable being those that are classified as fancy vivid yellow.
The GIA determines the grading based on a comparison of the diamond's colour to a set of master stones with known colour grades.
Yellow diamonds are formed under the same geological conditions as white diamonds, but the presence of nitrogen molecules causes the yellow colour.
However, yellow diamonds can also contain other trace elements that can influence their colour, such as boron and hydrogen.
Like canary diamonds, yellow diamonds can also exhibit other factors that affect their value and rarity, such as clarity, cut, and carat weight. They can be found in various shapes, including round, cushion, pear, and oval, and are often used in engagement rings, necklaces, and earrings.
One of the most famous yellow diamonds is the Tiffany Yellow Diamond, a 128.54-carat diamond considered one of the largest yellow diamonds in the world. It was discovered in South Africa in 1877 and acquired by Tiffany & Co. in 1878. It is displayed at the Tiffany flagship store in New York City today.
The showdown: Canary Diamonds Vs Yellow Diamonds
Canary and yellow diamonds are two types of fancy coloured diamonds that are often compared due to their similar yellow colour. However, the two's notable differences can affect their value, rarity, and overall appeal.
Color Intensity
One of the most significant differences between canary and yellow diamonds is their colour intensity. Canary diamonds are known for their intense and vivid yellow colour, while yellow diamonds can exhibit a range of yellow shades, from light yellow to intense yellow.
This can affect their value, as canary diamonds with a high colour saturation are often more valuable than yellow diamonds with a lighter hue.
Rarity
Another factor that can affect the value of canary and yellow diamonds is their rarity. While both types of diamonds are rare and valuable, canary diamonds are considered rare and can be harder to find than yellow diamonds.
This can also affect their market demand and popularity, as canary diamonds are often seen as more exclusive and luxurious.
Grading Process
The grading process for canary and yellow diamonds is the same, with both being graded on the same colour grading scale by the GIA.
However, canary diamonds are typically given a different colour designation than yellow diamonds, with canary diamonds falling under the fancy yellow or fancy intense yellow category. While yellow diamonds fall under the fancy light yellow, fancy yellow, or fancy intense yellow categories.
When choosing between canary and yellow diamonds, personal preference and style are important factors to consider.
Canary diamonds are often favoured by those who prefer a more vibrant and bold yellow colour. Yellow diamonds are preferred by those who want a softer and more subtle yellow hue.
Conclusion
In the end, whether you choose a canary diamond or a yellow diamond, one thing is for certain: you'll have a stunning piece of jewellery that's sure to turn heads.
Both of these fancy colored diamonds are truly remarkable in their way, offering a range of yellow hues that can be rare, valuable, and undeniably beautiful.
Whether you're drawn to the intense and vivid yellow of a canary diamond or the softer and more subtle shades of a yellow diamond, each offers a unique and striking option. The yellow diamond of your choice is sure to make a lasting impression.
So, when choosing between canary diamonds vs yellow diamonds, trust your instincts and pick the one that speaks to you the most - you can't go wrong with either choice.
FAQs
Is the Canary diamond the same as a yellow diamond?
According to the official GIA grading, canary diamonds are classified as fancy yellow diamonds, graded between the fancy intense to fancy vivid range on the colour scale. Although "Canary Yellow" is a commonly used term to describe yellow diamonds with a pure yellow colour, it is not an official term.
Are canary yellow diamonds more expensive?
Yellow diamonds are commonly found with secondary colours, but the pure fancy yellow diamonds, often called "Canary Yellow Diamonds," are the most expensive and sought-after. In contrast, yellow diamonds are more common and, as a result, are typically less expensive per carat compared to other coloured diamonds.
Is a yellow diamond a canary?
Yes, a yellow diamond can be referred to as a canary diamond, but only if it is pure yellow and falls within the fancy yellow category on the GIA colour grading scale.
