To evaluate quantitatively and objectively the colour of diamonds, we can adopt a new method using a spectrophotometer, instead of conventional colour grading by the naked eyes using a set of masterstones. In this new method, the chromaticity coordinate of a diamond can be obtained from the transmittance curve, which can be used for colour grading. By this procedure, it is possible to perform not only more objective colour grading but also quantitative evaluation of the effect of sizes upon colour. In the present study, the absorption coefficients (415.5 nm) of colour graded diamonds are measured and plotted on the chromaticity diagram, from which a correlation between the positions on the chromaticity diagram and the conventional colour grading scale is obtained. Calibration factors for different sizes are also obtained. Furthermore, the influences of cut proportion, fluorescence, metamerism and greyish tint upon colour grading are analysed.
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