Welcome to Arihant Diamond Institute. Today, we discuss diamonds can hold a certain mystique, and with that mystique comes a lot of technical jargon. One term you might encounter while shopping for diamonds is "fluorescence". But what exactly is it, and should it influence your decision to buy a piece of fluorescence jewellery?
What is Diamond Fluorescence?
Fluorescence is the property some diamonds have to emit a faint glow when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, like sunlight. This glow is usually blue, but it can also be yellow or orange in rare cases. Once the UV light source is removed, the diamond stops glowing.
Do All Diamonds Fluorescence?
Not all diamonds have this property. Only about a quarter to a third of diamonds will fluoresce under long-wave UV light. Of these, the vast majority (over 95%) emit a bluish light.
Fluorescence: Good or Bad?
There's no simple answer here. Fluorescence can actually go both ways:
• Positive Effects: Faint or slight blue fluorescence can make a diamond appear whiter by masking a slight yellowish tint. This can be a benefit for diamonds with lower color grades (H or below). Additionally, some believe fluorescence can enhance a diamond's brilliance.
• Negative Effects: Strong fluorescence, especially in yellow diamonds, can make the stone appear hazy or milky. In some cases, it might even give a brownish cast.
So, Should You Buy Fluorescence Jewellery?
Here are some things to consider:
• Strength of Fluorescence: Faint or slight blue fluorescence is generally considered a plus or a neutral factor. It's the strong fluorescence you want to watch out for, particularly in lower quality stones.
• Diamond Color Grade: If you're looking at a diamond with a lower color grade (H or below), faint blue fluorescence might actually be a benefit by making it appear whiter.
• Lighting Conditions: Since fluorescence is caused by UV light, it won't be visible under normal indoor lighting. How you plan to wear the jewellery is important. Will you primarily wear it outdoors in sunlight?
• Price: Sometimes, fluorescence diamonds can be slightly cheaper due to the perceived negative aspects. However, you shouldn't pay extra for fluorescence.