A Canary Diamond is a highly sought-after type of fancy yellow diamond known for its rich, intense yellow hue. These diamonds get their vibrant colour from the presence of nitrogen, which absorbs blue light and allows yellow to be the dominant visible colour.
Key Features of Canary Diamonds:
Intense Yellow Colour
Unlike lower-grade yellow diamonds, canary diamonds exhibit a deep, pure yellow shade with strong saturation.
The term “canary” is an unofficial trade name used to describe Fancy Intense Yellow or Fancy Vivid Yellow diamonds, the highest-quality yellow diamonds.
Rarity and Value
Fancy yellow diamonds make up only a small percentage of mined diamonds, and the Fancy Vivid Yellow variety (the purest canary shade) is even rarer.
Their value depends on colour intensity, carat weight, clarity, and cut.
Grading by the GIA
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) classifies yellow diamonds into different intensities:
Faint Yellow
Very Light Yellow
Light Yellow
Fancy Light Yellow
Fancy Yellow
Fancy Intense Yellow (Canary Diamond Category)
Fancy Vivid Yellow (Most Valuable Canary Diamonds)
Famous Canary Diamonds
The Tiffany Yellow Diamond (128.54 carats) – One of the world’s largest and most famous canary diamonds, owned by Tiffany & Co.
The Allnatt Diamond (101.29 carats) – A renowned Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond.
Investment Potential
Due to their beauty, rarity, and growing demand in the luxury jewelry market, high-quality canary diamonds are considered an excellent investment.