When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, many diamonds exhibit a phenomenon called fluorescence, which causes them to glow in various colors. Based on the provided information, blue is the most common color you can expect to see from diamond fluorescence.
Understanding Diamond Fluorescence
Diamond fluorescence is the emission of visible light by a diamond when it is exposed to external light sources, primarily UV light. This glow is caused by trace elements, such as nitrogen, within the diamond's atomic structure. Not all diamonds fluoresce, but among those that do, the effect can range from very faint to very strong.
What Colors Can a Diamond Glow?
While blue is the predominant color, diamonds can fluoresce in other hues as well. According to the reference:
- Blue (Most Common)
- Yellow
- Pink
- Red
This means that while you are most likely to see a blue glow, it is also possible for diamonds to have a yellow, pink, or red fluorescence.
Fluorescence Colors
| Color | Commonality | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Blue | Most Common | Frequently observed under UV light. |
| Yellow | Possible | Less common than blue. |
| Pink | Possible | Less common than blue. |
| Red | Possible | The least common fluorescence color. |
When is the Glow Noticeable?
The color and intensity of the glow are not always extreme. The reference notes that "it's really only if you have a stone with strong or very strong fluor, coupled with high UV" that the fluorescence is significantly visible. This means that under normal lighting conditions, you typically won't see a diamond glowing. The effect is primarily observed when the diamond is exposed to strong UV sources, such as a blacklight or the concentrated UV light used in gemological laboratories.
In summary, while a diamond can glow in yellow, pink, or red, blue is the color you are most likely to see when it fluoresces under UV light. The visibility of this glow depends heavily on the strength of the diamond's fluorescence and the intensity of the UV light source.
