Which Diamonds Glow in the Dark?

Diamonds that belong to type IIB tend to appear blue but after absorbing high-energy light such as UV light they can emit a residual glow for a short period of time. Learn more about this fascinating phenomenon.

Which Diamonds Glow in the Dark?

Diamonds that belong to a group called type IIB tend to appear blue. However, after absorbing high-energy light, such as UV light, these diamonds can emit a residual glow for a short period of time. This glow can vary in color from blue to pink and fiery red, depending on the diamond. Fluorescence is the phenomenon of a material that glows when exposed to certain wavelengths of ultraviolet light.

This is very common in natural diamonds, and some may emit a bluish, yellow or orange light when exposed to long-wave UV rays from sources such as the sun. Once the UV light source is removed, the diamond stops emitting fluorescence. The ability of a diamond to shine under such conditions is called fluorescence, and it should not be confused with cut quality. Cut quality determines the brilliance of a diamond and not its ability to shine in low light conditions. In commerce, diamonds in the D to H color range with bluish fluorescence are often considered less desirable than diamonds of similar grade without fluorescence, because some people believe that bluish fluorescence can cause diamonds to have a hazy or oily appearance. However, the association between fluorescence and haze persists, and diamonds in the D to H range with very strong fluorescence often sell for less than diamonds that do not fluoresce, although their color and transparency will most likely not be affected by their fluorescence.

Knowing how to spot a fake diamond can prevent couples from falling for jewelry scams while ensuring that they can find a charming diamond that fits their preferences and budget. Because laboratory-created diamonds have many properties identical to those extracted naturally, some of them tend to shine. Fluorescence may be touched upon but it's not really explained when looking at diamonds and diamond engagement rings. Understanding the different types of rhinestones can help couples discover if they really want a natural diamond, formed by heat and pressure deep in the earth's crust, or if an artificial stone is suitable. In general terms, diamond fluorescence is blue, but from time to time, a diamond is seen to fluoresce another color, such as yellow. We have a large selection of premium cut GIA diamonds specializing in diamonds of 1.5 carats or more.

By knowing how to check the authenticity of a diamond, couples can protect themselves from unscrupulous people and find a gem they cherish, whether it's a natural diamond or not. The problem with some buyers is that they judge whether a diamond is fake or real based on how it shines in different light conditions. The only true fake diamond is one that is dishonestly represented as a diamond when, in fact, it is a different type of stone. When diamond contains specific chemical impurities, it is likely to shine when subjected to ultraviolet light.

Jerome Tarrants
Jerome Tarrants

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