Complete Guide to Purchasing an L Color Diamond: What You Need to Know

Opting for a lower color spectrum diamond can be a strategic way to reduce costs on an engagement ring, but it comes with certain considerations. Among these, L color diamonds stand out — complete with their own set of pros and cons, much like your future in-laws. So, just as you prepare for family Thanksgiving, it makes sense to get acquainted with the diamond you’re considering. Here’s what you need to know about L color diamonds.

Understanding L Color Diamonds

Diamonds are graded on a color scale from D to M: D through F diamonds are labeled colorless, G through J are “near colorless,” and K through M have a “faint” color. At Artful Bracelets, we carry diamonds graded from D to L to ensure you can confidently choose a brilliant stone you’ll cherish for years.

L color diamonds fall within the “faint color” category. What does this mean? Simply put, these diamonds exhibit some visible color, bringing a few points to consider.

Do L Color Diamonds Appear Yellow?

L color diamonds tend to have a slight yellowish tint. The debate is minimal — these diamonds have enough body color to exhibit a noticeable tint, especially when viewed from the side. Some L color diamonds may also show a brownish hue, although yellow is generally more desirable than brown, making yellow-tinted stones less noticeable. Consult with our expert gemologists, who will steer you clear of L diamonds with a brown tint.

Strategies to Make L Color Diamonds Look Whiter

To enhance the whiteness of L color diamonds, opt for a metal with less contrast. A yellow gold band can make diamonds with a yellow tinge appear whiter, as can a rose gold setting with its warm pinkish tone. However, yellow gold will provide the most significant whitening effect.

Optimal Diamond Cuts

Fancy shapes (other than round) tend to show more color. Shapes like pear, oval, and marquise display more color near their points and edges, while princess, emerald, Asscher, radiant, and cushion cuts reflect more color in the body. For a less tinted appearance, a round brilliant cut is the best choice for an L color diamond.

Utilize Fluorescence

Another approach is to select a diamond with fluorescence, which can make the stone appear whiter. Fluorescence is how a diamond reacts to UV light and does not affect its structural integrity. For L color diamonds, aim for Medium to Strong fluorescence to enhance whiteness by approximately one color grade.

The Importance of Cut

No matter how you prioritize the four C’s, never compromise on the cut. A well-cut diamond will always look superior, making its color less prominent due to its enhanced sparkle.

Solo Settings Are Preferred

Avoid settings like halos, three stones, or pavé that contrast with the center diamond, potentially making it appear more color-infused. (Artful Bracelets uses G color diamonds as accent stones.) Opt for a solitaire setting, ensuring the focus remains on your center diamond without any comparisons.

Are L Color Diamonds a Wise Investment?

Ultimately, it depends on your personal preference, but the answer is often yes — especially for those seeking a round solitaire engagement ring in yellow gold, which makes the stone appear whiter. The cost savings can be substantial, allowing you to invest in a larger diamond or other priorities. If you’re leaning towards a setting that naturally adds warmth (like yellow or rose gold), an L color diamond can be a budget-friendly choice.

That said, most customers considering a diamond in the Faint color range often opt for a K color diamond. The price difference isn’t significant, and you’ll still enjoy the cost-saving benefits of the Faint color range. The chart below breaks down loose diamond purchases at Artful Bracelets by color:

Diamond Sales Data

If this seems overwhelming, let one of our expert gemologists assist you in finding the perfect L diamond. Simply fill out the form below with your diamond and budget preferences, and they’ll email you three tailored suggestions.