Orange Diamonds

What Makes a Diamond Orange

Orange-colored diamonds gain their coloration from nitrogen impurities that enter the diamond lattice during formation. Over time, the atoms arrange in a specific bonding configuration that allows a specific wavelength of light to be absorbed. 

But the mystery doesn’t stop there, with some showing plastic deformation, similar to the coloration seen in pink diamonds. This suggests the sheer geological stress placed on the stone is a key factor. 

Blue and yellow wavelengths enter the stone, reflecting a vivid orange hue. The intensity of the orange is determined by the concentration and arrangement of the nitrogen, giving you anything from a faint warmth to a fiery, vivid orange. 

A pure orange with no secondary hues is extraordinarily rare. In fact, most orange diamonds carry a secondary hue of yellow, brown, or pink. 

Orange Diamond Color Grading:

Orange diamonds are graded using the GIA’s ‘fancy color’ grading system. Unlike white diamonds, where you’d want an absence of color, fancy color diamonds look for hue, tone, and saturation on the following scale:

• Faint Orange

• Very Light Orange

• Light Orange

• Fancy Light Orange

• Fancy Orange

• Fancy Intense Orange

• Fancy Vivid Orange

• Fancy Deep Orange

Color intensity is the primary value driver, with the most ideal stone exhibiting an even distribution of color. A pure ‘Fancy Deep Orange’ is exceptionally rare and demands the highest price.

You can also expect to see combined descriptions when another hue is visible, such as ‘yellowish orange’.

What Shapes Maximize Orange Diamond Beauty?

Each diamond cut has a unique impact on any orange diamond’s saturation and fire. Brian Gavin Diamonds uses the finest proportions and exacting standards for cut quality, ensuring stunning coloration to the visual eye, even in rare shapes: 

Here are our recommended cuts: 

FAQs for Orange Diamonds

What makes a diamond orange?

Diamonds can become orange from the presence of nitrogen atoms in the diamond lattice during formation. This allows for specific light waves to enter the stone, creating a gorgeous orange hue. 

How rare are orange diamond rings?

Orange diamonds are only behind pink, red, blue, and violet in the ranking of the rarest of all diamonds. They make up just 0.05% of fancy colored diamonds in circulation. 

How are orange diamonds graded?

Orange diamonds are graded using the ‘fancy color’ grading system by the GIA. This system looks at hue, saturation, and tone. 

They will also be graded on clarity, cut, and carat weight. 

What metal works best with orange colored diamonds? 

We recommend a rose gold (which enhances orange warmth) or a white gold or platinum (to create a strong sense of contrast). 

Can I create a custom orange diamond ring?

Yes, we welcome you to contact us today to begin creating a customized orange diamond ring design based on your vision. We can help assist you with material selection, settings, sidestones, and any other dream you or your partner may have.