Diamond Fluorescence Guide

Discover the effects of fluorescence on diamonds.

Diamond Fluorescence Guide

Fluorescence describes how a diamond reacts when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, such as sunlight or a blacklight. Some diamonds emit a soft glow — most commonly blue — while others show no reaction at all. Fluorescence doesn't affect a diamond's durability, and in most cases has little to no visible effect on its appearance in normal lighting.

Fluorescence Intensity Scale

Intensity Description
None No visible reaction under UV light. The diamond's face-up appearance is unaffected by fluorescence entirely.
Faint A very slight glow that's essentially undetectable without specialized equipment and has no impact on appearance.
Medium A noticeable glow under UV light, though it typically has no visible effect on the diamond under normal lighting conditions.
Strong A pronounced glow under UV light. In rare cases, strong fluorescence can add a very slight haziness, particularly in higher color grades.
Very Strong The most intense reaction to UV light. Occasionally used deliberately, as strong blue fluorescence can make a lower color-grade diamond appear whiter in daylight.