Key Takeaways

• D, E, F = colorless; G to J = near colorless; K and below = visible warmth.
• Modern moissanite is available in true colorless D grade.
• White metals make colorless stones look even brighter.

When you picture a stunning engagement ring, you probably imagine a stone that looks bright, crisp and icy white. That look comes down to color grade. Here is how it works for moissanite.

The Color Scale

Moissanite is graded on the same letter scale used for diamonds, which runs from D (completely colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The grades are grouped like this:

• D, E, F: Colorless. No visible color, even when compared side by side by an expert.
• G, H, I, J: Near colorless. A faint warmth that is hard to spot once the stone is set.
• K and below: a noticeable warm tint.

Why D Color Is the Top Choice

A D-color stone lets light pass through without any tint, which keeps its sparkle crisp and white. Early moissanite often showed a slight yellow or green tone, but modern growing methods now produce truly colorless stones. That is why D-color moissanite has become the standard for fine jewelry.

How Metal Changes the Look

• White gold and platinum reflect cool light and make a colorless stone look even brighter.
• Yellow gold adds warmth around the stone for a romantic, vintage feel. A colorless stone still looks white in the center.
• Rose gold gives a soft blush glow that pairs beautifully with colorless moissanite.

Does Shape Affect Color?

Brilliant shapes such as round and oval hide color very well because their many facets scatter light. Larger step cuts such as emerald show more of the stone's body, so a colorless grade makes the biggest difference there. With D-color moissanite, every shape looks white.

Color and Clarity Together

For the cleanest, brightest look, pair top color with top clarity. Every Rodio Ice&Co center stone is D color and VVS clarity. Learn more in our guide to VVS moissanite, or browse engagement rings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best color grade for moissanite?

D is the highest color grade. It looks completely colorless and icy white.

Is there a visible difference between D, E and F moissanite?

All three are colorless, and the difference is almost impossible to see once the stone is set. D is the purest white.

Does moissanite look yellow?

Modern colorless moissanite does not look yellow. Some early moissanite had a slight tint, but today D, E and F grades look white.