What are D color diamonds? | Rare Carat

Rian here - we’ve written these color grade articles for you to get the nitty gritty on each diamond color grade. You can also get the big picture: view our page on the diamond color scale about specific diamond colors. Enjoy!

The Details About D Color Diamonds

Trulli — Diamond Color Guide showing Colorless (D, E, F) Near-Colorless (G, H, I, J) and Very Faint Yellow (K, L, M) color range

Simply put, ‘D’ is the crème de la crème of diamond color grades.

D color diamonds have the least amount of color in them (technically colorless), and this makes them the brightest, whitest, and iciest of all the colors on the scale. It also makes them the rarest of all the colors, and - yes, you’ve guessed it - the cruelest on your wallet.

Colorless diamonds (grades D-F) make up less than 1% of the world’s supply of diamonds, and as a result, you are expected to pay a premium for the privilege of owning one.

Here is a chart to help you better understand the color grading scale:

However, a word of warning as you embark on that journey. Do not assume that buying the best color diamond means you will get the most beautiful icy white stone. The best color (and indeed clarity) in the world is wasted on a diamond that is not cut correctly. If you need some guidance on this, just remember this ancient proverb; every time someone buys a poorly cut diamond, an angel loses its wings.

E Color Diamonds >

D Color Diamond Buying FAQs

What does the “D” color grade stand for in a diamond?

The “D” grade marks the very top of the color scale — it signals a diamond that is essentially colorless. These stones are the whitest, brightest, and rarest of the “normal” (D–Z) diamond color spectrum.

How rare are D-color diamonds?

Very rare — diamonds rated D for color make up a very small percentage of all diamonds sold. Because of their scarcity and the fact they show nearly no tint, they command a significant premium.

Do you always need a D-color grade to get a white-looking diamond?

Not necessarily. While D is the top grade for color, the article reminds us that a well-cut diamond with a slightly lower color grade (such as E or F) can still look visually very white—especially when set in a ring and viewed in everyday lighting.

What should I check when considering a D-color diamond?

Even when the color grade is D, you’ll still want to focus on other factors: ensure the cut is excellent, consider the setting metal (white metals help showcase the ice-white look), and think about overall budget—because going all-in on color may limit how much you invest in size or cut.

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Dr. Rian Mulcahy

Rian is officially a Diamond PhD - just ping us if you’d like to read her fascinating 200-page thesis, titled Facets of Value: An Investigation into the Formation of Worth in the Diamond Market. She has consulted various firms all along the pipeline, from the rough diamond market to the recycled diamond industry. She holds an MA in Globalisation and Development from University College Cork and a PhD in the Sociology of Diamond Valuation from the London School of Economics.