The Charm of a Yellow Diamond

The rarity of naturally occurring yellow diamonds makes them very popular and avidly sought gems. Many regard them as second in popularity and value to white diamonds. An intensely colored yellow diamond, however, may cost fairly higher than a white diamond of equal size and clarity. Yellow diamonds also have some interesting facts that make them special in the world of gems.

The first diamond that was authenticated in Africa was in fact a yellow diamond of 10.7 carats. Also, the world's largest diamond, which has been judged as internally flawless, is a yellow diamond that weighs over 407 carats and was discovered accidentally in Congo by a young girl. Today, yellow diamonds are cherished among diamond jewelry fans and collectors of precious stones.

Color of Yellow Diamonds

The color of a yellow diamond varies widely in shade and hue from light or pale yellow to intense deep yellow like gold and those that are close to orange color. While the choice of a desirable color is a matter of individual taste, intensely colored yellow diamonds are generally more in demand. Yellow color that borders on orange is commonly called marmalade and it also stands high in popularity

Shape of Yellow Diamonds

Yellow diamonds are cut into different shapes for aesthetic purposes. The most famous cuts include round brilliant, oval, radiant, marquise, heart shape, pear shape, and princess cuts. The latter is generally thought of as the most successful cut for a yellow diamond. Most popular, however, is the round brilliant cut while the other types of cuts are its various adaptations.

Size, Rarity, and Prices of Yellow Diamonds

The rarity of gems plays a key role in determining their price. Yellow diamonds, on the average, have been quite rare among precious stones and hence have been more expensive. Other things being equal, a yellow diamond will usually cost more than a diamond of other colors or a colorless one. For using in jewelry items, smaller yellow diamonds are commonly used, which are comparatively less expensive. The relatively recent discovery of yellow diamonds in Australia is expected to bring about some change in the high prices of yellow diamonds.

Use in Jewelry

A yellow diamond is a hot choice in the jewelry world. It is used in many different kinds of jewelry items and has been worn by elites and celebrities in important places ranging from the White House to Hollywood gatherings. Most popular are yellow diamond finger rings, pendants, and earrings. Besides their attractive look, yellow diamonds are preferred over other yellow precious stones due to their greater hardness and hence longer life.