Question 1

Is Fancy Vivid better than Fancy Intense?

Accepted Answer

Fancy Vivid indicates stronger saturation than Fancy Intense at a similar light to medium tone, and it usually commands a significant premium for the same hue and size. Whether it is better for a particular piece depends on budget and the look required. A well cut Fancy Intense can be very attractive and more affordable.

Question 2

What is the difference between Fancy Vivid and Fancy Deep?

Accepted Answer

Both grades describe strong saturation. Fancy Vivid applies to stones with a light to medium tone, giving a bright colour, while Fancy Deep applies to darker tones, giving a richer, deeper colour. Neither is simply higher than the other, but in most hues Fancy Vivid is the more sought-after and higher-priced grade.

Question 3

Which colours come in Fancy Vivid?

Accepted Answer

GIA uses Fancy Vivid for many hues, including yellow, orange, pink, purple, blue and green. Fancy Vivid Yellow is the most frequently seen, while Fancy Vivid Pink, Blue and Green are much rarer and more valuable. The full colour description on the report, including any modifiers, is what defines the stone.

Question 4

Can a diamond's colour grade change on regrading?

Accepted Answer

It can. Colour grading is done visually against standards, and a stone close to a grade boundary may receive a different grade on resubmission or at another laboratory. Recutting can also change the grade. For stones near a boundary, rely on a recent report from a major laboratory and view the diamond or its video.

Fancy Vivid Diamonds