Diamonds that emit a colorful glow under UV light are referred to as fluorescent diamonds, and those that don’t are called non-fluorescent diamonds. While fluorescence (especially blue) can make a diamond with a low color grade appear more colorless, it is generally not desired in stones with a higher color grade because it can make them appear hazy. Shop brilliant diamonds by selecting non-fluorescent diamonds in an ideal cut.
Diamonds that provide a colorful glow under UV light are considered fluorescent. Fluorescence isn’t typically considered a performance characteristic of a diamond, and strong fluorescence isn’t a desired quality in diamonds.
Are fluorescent diamonds less expensive than non-fluorescent diamonds?
Yes. A fluorescent diamond is roughly 15% less expensive than a non-fluorescent diamond of comparable quality and carat weight.
Is fluorescence visible to the eye?
Fluorescence is only visible under UV light, but it can make a diamond appear hazier under bright natural light than a non-fluorescent stone would be.
Does fluorescence get a grade?
According to the GIA, while fluorescence is not graded, it is an important characteristic of diamonds. The level of fluorescence in a diamond can be regarded as none, faint, medium, strong, or very strong. If it is medium or higher, the GIA grading report for the diamond will note the color of fluorescence.