When searching for the perfect diamond, we often hear about the 4 Cs—carat, cut, clarity, and color—but there's another factor that can significantly impact the appearance and value of a diamond: its background shade, often referred to as BGM. This refers to the presence of brown, green, or milky (BGM) hues that affect the stone's overall look. Understanding why BGM diamonds are generally avoided can help you make a more informed decision when purchasing a diamond.
What is Diamond BGM?
The term "BGM" stands for Brown, Green, and Milky—shades that can be present in the background of a diamond. These shades are typically not as desirable as the traditional, clear diamonds because they can detract from the stone's brilliance and fire.
BGM is not part of the diamond certificate! For example, whether a diamond is milky has nothing to do with clarity grade! It can be VVS or IF and still be milky. Therefore, it is important to have an expert who can properly select diamonds!
Brown Shade in Diamonds
Brown shades in diamonds are the most common of the BGM shades. While some brown diamonds, known as cognac or chocolate diamonds, are marketed for their unique color, a brown background shade is generally not desired in white diamonds. It can give the diamond a murky appearance and diminish its sparkle.
Green Shade in Diamonds
Green shades in diamonds are less common and can vary from a light tint to deeper hues. While natural green diamonds do exist, a green background shade in a white diamond can make the stone look less pure and can be an indication of exposure to radiation, which might raise concerns about the diamond's origins and treatment.
Milky Shade in Diamonds
A milky shade is caused by microscopic inclusions within the diamond that scatter light, giving the stone a hazy, milky appearance. This effect can severely affect the transparency and brilliance of the diamond, making it less attractive to buyers seeking the clear sparkle that diamonds are known for.
Why Avoid BGM Diamonds?
BGM diamonds are often avoided for a number of reasons. Primarily, they do not reflect light as well as diamonds without these shades, leading to a lack of luster and sparkle. Moreover, the presence of BGM can indicate lower quality and can significantly reduce the value of the diamond.
Impact on Value
The presence of BGM shades can significantly affect a diamond's value. Diamonds with noticeable brown, green, or milky hues are usually priced lower than their clearer counterparts. This is because the demand for BGM diamonds is much lower, and they are considered less desirable within the market.
Aesthetic Appeal
For many, the appeal of a diamond lies in its brilliance and fire. BGM shades can compromise these qualities, making the diamond appear dull and lifeless. When shopping for a diamond, most consumers seek out stones that have the least amount of color possible to ensure maximum sparkle.
Choosing the Right Diamond
When selecting a diamond, it's important to inspect it under different lighting conditions and to ask for a gemological certificate that provides detailed information about the stone's qualities. While some may find the unique colors of BGM diamonds appealing, it's crucial to understand that these shades can affect the stone's beauty and value.
In conclusion, while BGM shades in diamonds can offer a unique appearance, they are generally considered undesirable due to their impact on the stone's brilliance, transparency, and value. When in the market for a diamond, it's wise to be aware of these factors to ensure you're making a choice that you'll cherish for years to come. Remember, the most important aspect of choosing a diamond is that it meets your personal preferences and that it brings you joy.
