A chameleon diamond changes color for a while when gently heated or kept in darkness, then returns to its own color by itself. Nothing is done to the stone.
A natural diamond whose color changes temporarily when it is gently heated or left in darkness for a period, and then returns on its own. The grading laboratory records the behaviour in the report's comments, and the trade calls these stones "chameleon".
What color is a chameleon diamond?
It carries an ordinary fancy color grade that describes its stable color, most often an olive, grayish or yellowish green, sometimes a brownish yellow. That is why each chameleon here is also listed under its graded color.
Is the color change permanent?
No. The change is temporary and the stone returns to its stable color by itself. A permanent change of color would point to treatment, which is the opposite of what makes a chameleon valuable.
Is a chameleon diamond treated?
The color-change behaviour is natural. As with any colored diamond, the laboratory report is what confirms natural color origin, so check that line alongside the chameleon comment.
How is a chameleon diamond identified?
By a gemological laboratory. GIA tests for the behaviour and notes it in the report comments; the color grade on the same report describes the stone's stable color.
Are chameleon diamonds rare?
Yes. They are uncommon even among fancy colored diamonds, and the cause of the effect is still not fully understood, which is part of their appeal to collectors.
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