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Posted under Diamond Guide

Tuesday, Feb 17 2026

E Color Diamonds vs F Color Diamonds? The Ultimate Comparison

Written by Manny. S

E Color Diamonds vs F Color Diamonds? The Ultimate Comparison

Looking for engagement rings and confused about which diamond color works the best for you? While we know searching for lab-grown diamond engagement rings can be quite a daunting task, and then navigating through the confusing jargon of color grades can be a whole experience. But here is the thing; one minute you are looking for a beautiful white diamond and the next you are wondering if E color diamonds or F color diamonds should you choose from. 

And the questions like: Are these diamonds different or is it just a clever marketing gimmick? Are there any differences between the two? 

We know buying a loose diamond for your ring is both an emotional and a financial decision, but understanding what each color grade offers is a lot more exciting. 

So with that being said, let us help you break it all down in a way that is simple, honest, and easy to understand. 

loose lab diamonds

SHOP loose lab diamonds

Table of Content

Understanding Diamond Color Grade

Before we dive into understanding E color diamonds vs F color diamonds, let us tell you how diamond color grading actually works.

What diamond color grading means

Diamond color refers to the presence of tint in your selected stone or how white/colorless it looks. The less presence of color, the higher the diamond grade and that results in how it is priced. 

Diamond Grade

Certification institutes like IGI or GIA use a standardized scale to grade diamonds that starts at D color and goes down to Z color. In this scale the diamonds that are graded at D are colorless and the ones that are graded Z have a slight yellow or brown tint in them. 

Colorless Diamond Grades

Keeping our topic in mind of E color diamonds vs F color diamonds, let us tell you that both of these diamond grades fall under the colorless group. Both of these color grades show no color when they are viewed face up. These diamond colors look identical to the naked eye but they have microscopic differences that could only be seen under magnification. 

loose lab diamonds

What are E Color Diamonds

E color diamonds sit below D color on the grading scale, this means it is the second highest color grade available. The best part is that this diamond color looks perfectly white and ice-like even with a higher carat weight. If you are selecting this diamond color, we suggest that you go with an excellent cut quality. Because an excellent cut diamond maximizes the brilliance of the diamond, which makes it look brighter when compared to other color grades.

What are F Color Diamonds

F color diamonds sit right next to E on the grading scale but this diamond color brings a different appeal. The difference between both the color grades is very slight, because with a side-by-side comparison you can’t really tell the difference between the two. F color diamonds typically costs less compared to E colored diamonds while still looking white, perfectly balancing both beauty and budget. 

solitaire rings

SHOP solitaire engagement rings

Choosing Between E and F Color for Diamond Engagement Rings

Okay, let’s talk business now, when selecting diamond engagement rings, the right color grade depends on how well you balance between aesthetics and budget. 

Best Diamond Choice for Engagement Rings

If you are planning to go for a higher carat weight center stone with a minimal solitaire setting, we suggest that you go for E color diamonds, because this will give you an ultra-clean look that is very eye-catching. 

But if you want to go for a more intricate and detailed band, like maybe with a halo or side stone setting, we suggest that you go for F color diamonds. This color grade will make the center diamond look brighter, with the accent diamonds drawing in the attention with some extra sparkle. 

side stone engagement ring

SHOP side stone engagement ring

When to Choose E Color Diamonds 

  • When you want one of the highest color grade available for your jewelry

  • When you want to go for a larger carat weight

  • When you want a perfect crispy and icy-looking diamon

When F Color Diamonds are the Smarter Choice

  • When you want maximum value for your diamond without compromising the color

  • When your ring setting is included with intricate designs and pave set diamonds

  • When you prioritize cut over microscopic color difference

Expert Buying Tips

When you are shopping for diamonds for your engagement ring or fine jewelry, always remember that everything boils down to finding the perfect balance. Here is what you can do:

Pair it with a high cut quality that will balance on the clarity and color grade of the diamond for maximum sparkle.

  • Pick the setting style and metal color before upgrading on the diamond color grade.

  • Decide if you want a more rare diamond color or if you want to stick to a more practical budget when comparing between E color diamonds vs F color diamonds

TBH, the smartest choice is not just going for the highest color diamond but for the one that feels visually perfect for you.

round diamonds

FAQs

Can I see the difference between E color diamonds vs F color diamonds with the naked eye?

To the naked eye, both color diamonds look identical, so it is gonna be quite tricky to tell them apart. Even trained professionals need proper lighting and equipment to tell them apart. 

Which color should I choose E color diamonds or F color diamonds for my engagement ring?

Both of the diamond colors are an excellent choice; the best choice for your ring would depend on the setting that you go for. That means if you are going for a solitaire setting, go with an E color diamond and if you have intricate details for your ring setting go with F color diamond.  

Is it true that E color diamonds more expensive than F color diamonds? 

They can be more expensive if you compare them with F color diamonds, but if you want to go with the highest color grade E color diamonds are the best pick. 

Well, in the end choosing between E color diamonds or F color diamonds is less about going with what is wrong and more about going with the one that feels right for you. F color diamonds look the best if you want to balance out the sparkle quotient of your jewelry while staying under your budget.

But if extra bling is what you are going for E color diamonds are the best pick for you. Both of the diamonds work the best for your engagement ring, so pick the one that just feels right for you! 

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