5P vs 6P vs 7P Pink Diamonds: What Is the Difference?
The difference between 5P, 6P and 7P pink diamonds lies primarily in the strength and intensity of their natural pink colour.
Within the Argyle colour grading system, 5P displays a stronger pink colour than 6P, while 7P is generally lighter and more delicate. The letter “P” identifies the diamond as belonging to the Pink hue family, while the number indicates its relative colour intensity.
However, colour grade is only one part of a pink diamond’s appearance and value. Carat weight, cut, clarity, provenance and the individual character of the stone must also be considered.
What does the “P” mean?
The “P” identifies a diamond as belonging to the Pink colour family within the proprietary grading system developed for Argyle pink diamonds.
The Argyle system was created to describe the mine’s distinctive range of coloured diamonds by considering characteristics such as hue and colour intensity.
A diamond graded 6P is therefore different from a 6PP or 6PR. Although their numerical intensity levels may be similar, their dominant hues are not the same.
The Argyle colour grading system is separate from the system used by the Gemological Institute of America. A diamond may consequently have both an Argyle-equivalent colour grade and a GIA description such as Fancy Pink, Fancy Intense Pink or another natural fancy-colour designation.
How do the numbers work?
In the Argyle pink colour scale, lower numbers generally indicate stronger colour saturation.
This means:
- 5P is generally richer than 6P
- 6P is generally richer than 7P
- 7P has the softest colour of the three
The number should not be interpreted like a traditional score where a higher number is automatically better. A 5P is not simply a “better-quality” diamond than a 7P. It is a diamond with a stronger pink colour grade.
Some buyers prefer the richer colour of a 5P, while others are attracted to the softer blush appearance of a 7P. The right choice depends on the design, budget and personal colour preference.
Does the metal colour affect the appearance?
Yes. The surrounding metal can influence how the pink colour is perceived.
Rose gold
Rose gold can complement the warmth of a pink diamond and may help a softer pink stone appear more integrated and colourful. It is often selected for halos, bands and romantic designs.
White gold or platinum
White metals create a crisp contrast around a pink diamond. This may help distinguish the stone from its setting, especially when it is combined with white diamonds.
Are 5P, 6P and 7P diamonds still rare?
Yes. Natural pink diamonds represent an exceptionally small part of global diamond production, and diamonds originating from the Argyle mine are no longer being mined.
The Argyle mine operated in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia for 37 years before mining ceased in November 2020. Its closure means that the available supply of documented Argyle-origin pink diamonds is finite.
While 5P, 6P and 7P colours may be seen more frequently than the most intensely saturated Argyle pink and red grades, they remain scarce natural diamonds with a highly distinctive Australian origin.
Discover Australian pink diamonds
Whether you prefer the richer colour of a 5P, the balanced medium pink of a 6P or the delicate blush of a 7P, every natural pink diamond has its own individual character.
Explore Australian Diamond Valley’s collection of Argyle-origin pink diamonds, or contact our team for assistance comparing colour grades, documentation and suitable options for a bespoke jewellery design.
