Diamond clarity refers to the absence of inclusions and blemishes on and within a diamond. It's one of the four key factors (along with carat, colour, and cut) used to determine a diamond's overall quality and value.
Definition of Diamond Clarity
- Inclusions: These are internal characteristics of the diamond, such as minerals, fractures, or cavities.
- Blemishes: External characteristics found on the diamond's surface, like scratches, pits, or chips.
Clarity Grading Scale
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has developed a widely accepted clarity grading system:
- Flawless (FL): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
- Internally Flawless (IF): No inclusions and only blemishes are visible under 10x magnification.
- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): Inclusions are so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification.
- Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): Inclusions are minor and range from difficult to somewhat easy for a grader to see under 10x magnification.
- Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification.
- Included (I1, I2, and I3): Inclusions and/or blemishes are obvious under 10x magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance.
Factors Affecting Clarity Grade
- Size of Inclusion/Blemish: Larger inclusions generally result in a lower clarity grade.
- Number: Numerous inclusions can lower clarity, even if they're small.
- Position: If an inclusion is directly under the table (the top flat facet) of the diamond, it may be more visible than if it's near the edge.
- Nature: The type of inclusion (e.g., crystal, cloud, or feather) can influence clarity.
- Relief: Inclusions that greatly contrast with the diamond's body colour can be more visible.
Technical Grading Process
- Initial Examination: The diamond is first cleaned to ensure no external dirt or oils impact the clarity assessment.
- 10x Magnification: Using a jeweller's loupe or a microscope, the diamond is examined under 10x magnification from various angles.
- Plotting: A diamond plot may be created, mapping out the stone's inclusions and blemishes. This serves as a unique "fingerprint" of the diamond.
Impact on Diamond Value
Diamond clarity can significantly affect a diamond's value. Typically, the fewer the inclusions and blemishes, the more valuable the diamond. However, many inclusions and blemishes are tiny and do not significantly affect a diamond's appearance to the naked eye.
Clarity Enhancement
There are treatments available to enhance diamond clarity:
- Laser Drilling: Used to remove small dark inclusions by drilling a tiny hole into the diamond and bleaching out the inclusion.
- Fracture Filling: Involves injecting a clear substance into surface-reaching fractures to make them less visible.
Note: Any clarity enhancements must be disclosed to the buyer as they can affect the diamond's value.
Expert Tips
- Magnification: Always examine diamonds under magnification to understand clarity characteristics.
- Balancing Factors: Consider how clarity plays with other factors (like color and cut) when choosing a diamond. For instance, a diamond with a lower clarity grade but exceptional cut can still be stunning.
- Eye-clean: This term refers to diamonds that might have inclusions under 10x magnification but appear clean to the naked eye. These can offer excellent value.
Understanding diamond clarity is essential for anyone in the gem and jewellery industry, as well as consumers looking to make an informed purchase. While higher clarity grades often command higher prices, the ultimate goal is to find a diamond that is beautiful and appealing to the individual, considering all its characteristics.
