When people think of diamonds, they imagine sparkling white gems symbolising love and luxury. But here’s a secret — not all diamonds are the same. In fact, diamonds come in various types, each with unique properties, colours, and characteristics that make them stand out.
Whether you’re planning to buy a diamond ring, invest in a rare stone, or simply want to understand what makes one diamond different from another, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Let’s dive into the dazzling world of diamond stones and learn how to choose the perfect one for you.
How Are Diamonds Put Into Types?
Diamonds are classified into types based on the presence or absence of nitrogen and boron atoms in their crystal structure. These tiny elements can affect a diamond’s colour, brilliance, and even how it reacts to ultraviolet light.
Gemologists use a scientific classification system that divides diamonds into four main types: Type Ia, Type Ib, Type IIa, and Type IIb.
Here’s why it matters — this classification helps determine:
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A diamond’s purity (whether it has trace elements)
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Its colour (white, yellow, blue, or pink)
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And, in some cases, its value
According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), more than 95% of natural diamonds are Type Ia — meaning they contain nitrogen in small clusters. The remaining 5% fall into rarer categories, which often command much higher prices.
What Are the Diamond Types?
Credit to Grahams Jewellers
Now, let’s break down the four main diamond types and what makes each of them unique.
Type Ia Diamonds
These are the most common diamonds found in nature. They contain small groups of nitrogen atoms, which can give the diamond a faint yellow or brown tint. Despite this, Type Ia diamonds still make up most of the gemstones used in jewellery today.
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Colour: Colourless to light yellow
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Rarity: Common
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Value: Affordable and widely available
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Example: Many engagement rings use Type Ia diamonds
Type Ib Diamonds
Far rarer (less than 0.1% of all natural diamonds), these contain isolated nitrogen atoms that create a more vivid yellow or orange hue. Some of the most vibrant yellow diamonds in the world belong to this category.
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Colour: Intense yellow, orange, or brown
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Rarity: Rare
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Value: High, due to strong colour saturation
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Example: The Tiffany Yellow Diamond, one of the most famous gemstones in history, is a Type Ib diamond
Type IIa Diamonds
Known for their exceptional purity, these diamonds have no measurable nitrogen or boron. As a result, they are often completely colourless and incredibly clear. Some of the world’s most famous diamonds, including the Cullinan and Koh-i-Noor, belong to this type.
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Colour: Colourless, pink, or brown
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Rarity: Extremely rare (less than 2% of natural diamonds)
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Value: Very high, prized for clarity and transparency
Type IIb Diamonds
These diamonds contain boron, which gives them a distinctive blue or grey colour. Boron also makes them electrically conductive, a trait that’s unique among gemstones. The most famous example of a Type IIb diamond is the Hope Diamond.
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Colour: Blue or grey
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Rarity: Extremely rare
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Value: Exceptionally high, often found in royal or museum collections
How Do You Know Which Type of Diamond You Have?
You can’t tell a diamond’s type by just looking at it — even trained eyes can’t see atomic impurities without scientific testing.
Here’s how you can find out:
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Gemological Reports: When you buy a diamond, ask for a certificate from a trusted authority like the GIA or IGI. These reports specify the diamond’s type, clarity, and colour grade.
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Advanced Testing: Scientists use infrared spectroscopy to detect nitrogen and boron within a diamond’s crystal lattice. This helps identify its exact type.
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Visual Hints: Although not always reliable, Type IIa diamonds tend to have a pure, icy clarity, while Type Ib diamonds may appear slightly warmer in tone.
In short, the best way to know your diamond’s type is to ensure it comes with an official grading report.
Which Diamond Type Should You Buy?
That depends on your goals — are you buying for beauty, rarity, or investment?
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For everyday jewellery: Type Ia diamonds are perfect. They’re durable, beautiful, and come in various price ranges.
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For collectors or investors: Type IIa and IIb diamonds are ideal because of their rarity and value appreciation.
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For colour lovers: Type Ib diamonds, especially yellow or orange ones, are a stunning choice for something bold and unique.
According to a 2023 Bain & Company report, coloured diamonds — especially pink, blue, and yellow — have increased in value by 12% per year over the past decade, far outpacing the growth of traditional white diamonds.
So, if you’re buying as an investment, it’s worth considering these rare coloured stones.
Which Diamond Type Should You Wear for Jewellery?
When it comes to choosing diamonds for jewellery, it’s all about lifestyle and personal preference.
For Daily Wear:
Go for Type Ia diamonds. They are durable, affordable, and perfect for engagement rings, earrings, and necklaces.
For Statement Pieces:
If you’re buying a piece to stand out — perhaps for a gala or collection — then Type IIa or Type Ib diamonds are best. Their purity and vibrant colours make them ideal for high-end, one-of-a-kind designs.
For Ethical Shoppers:
Lab-grown diamonds can also be classified using the same types. They’re visually identical to mined diamonds, more affordable, and eco-friendly — using up to 70% less energy than mining operations.
The global demand for lab-grown diamonds grew by 38% in 2023, showing that more people are embracing sustainable alternatives without compromising beauty or brilliance.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of diamonds helps you make smarter, more confident choices when buying or wearing jewellery.
Whether you prefer the pure clarity of a Type IIa, the vivid colour of a Type Ib, or the classic beauty of a Type Ia, each diamond type tells its own story. Diamonds aren’t just carbon crystals — they’re natural masterpieces formed over billions of years.
So next time you admire a sparkling gem, you’ll know a little more about what makes it shine — not just on the surface, but deep within.
FAQs
1. How many types of diamonds exist?
There are four main types: Ia, Ib, IIa, and IIb. These are classified based on trace elements like nitrogen and boron in their structure.
2. Which type of diamond is the rarest?
Type IIb diamonds are the rarest, known for their blue or grey colours caused by boron atoms.
3. What’s the best diamond type for an engagement ring?
Type Ia diamonds are ideal — they’re durable, widely available, and can be nearly colourless with great brilliance.
4. Are lab-grown diamonds the same types as natural ones?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds can also be classified into these same types since they have identical atomic structures.
5. Which diamond type is the most valuable?
Type IIa and IIb diamonds are the most valuable due to their rarity, purity, and exceptional beauty.