Diamond Fluorescence | Pros and Cons
What is fluorescence?
Fluorescence is the visible light some diamonds emit when exposed to ultraviolet rays. On a diamond grading report, fluorescence refers to the intensity of the diamond’s reaction to long-wave UV which is an essential element of daylight.
The glow emitted from the diamond lasts only as long as the diamond is exposed to the ultraviolet source.
Is fluorescence common and what impact does it have on the appearance of a diamond?
Of all diamonds submitted to the GIA approximately 30% exhibit some degree of fluorescence. However only 10% of the 30% show levels of fluorescence that may impact the brilliance of a diamond.
If ‘strong’ and ‘very strong’ fluorescent grades are excluded from this analysis it becomes clear that ‘faint and medium’ fluorescent grades have no impact at all on the brilliance of a diamond.
Actual quote from the GIA:
‘GIA studies show that, for the overwhelming majority of diamonds the strength of fluorescence has no widely noticeable effect on appearance. In many instances, observers prefer the appearance of diamonds with medium to strong fluorescence’.
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