Personally, Diamond Clarity is the hardest to decipher out of all the Diamond 4Cs. There are 2 main reasons. First, the grading does not follow an ordered list, for example, the alphabet order used for Diamond Colour Grades.
At a glance, I know that a C colour is a better grade when compared to H Colour because of the alphabetic order. But the terms used for Diamond Clarity are, just to name a few, VVS1, VS2, I2, SI1, and etc. How do I know what these grades really mean?
Second, I cannot tell the difference between the different Diamond Clarity grades just by looking at the diamonds. Most of the time, the differences are more visible when viewed under magnification. Let us look at how the Diamond Clarity is graded by GIA.
Diamond Clarity
The Diamond Clarity is graded based on the absence of inclusions and blemishes. Inclusions are small imperfections in the diamond while blemishes are on its surface. Small crystals growth trapped in a diamond during formation deep in the earth causes the inclusions. Although the grade of the diamond clarity affects the value of the diamond, most of the inclusions and blemishes are too tiny to be visible to the naked eye.
Diamond Clarity Scale
A diamond’s clarity is evaluated under 10x magnification and classified into 6 categories, with some categories further divided.
Flawless (FL)
No inclusions and blemishes can be seen under 10x magnification
Internally Flawless (IF)
No inclusions can be seen under 10x magnification
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 & VVS2)
Minuscule inclusions that are extremely or very difficult to see under 10x magnification, even by a skilled grader
Very Slightly Included (VS1 & VS2)
Small inclusions that range from difficult to somewhat easy to see under 10x magnification, by a skilled grader
Slightly Included (S1 & S2)
Inclusions noticeable under 10x magnification and S2 may be visible to the naked eye
Included (I1, I2, & I3)
Inclusions obvious under 10x magnification and are usually visible to the naked eye
Types of Inclusions
The term ‘inclusion’ is commonly referred to as flaws found in a diamond. Unless it is a flawless diamond, you’ll be able to see some inclusion characteristics on the GIA certificate. There are many types of inclusions and not all are equal. Let us review them one by one and find out what types of inclusions to avoid.
The bruise inclusion is caused by a strong and sharp blow on the diamond surface. The force impacts the insides of the diamond, causing small feather inclusions. The cutters are usually the culprit for this type of inclusion when they rush through the job and use the polishing wheel with too great an impact.
Most cavities are tiny and will only be noticeable under magnification. However, a cavity will trap oil and dirt at a much faster rate and causes it to look like a “decay” at that part of the diamond.
Try to avoid having a diamond with a cavity. In the event where you must purchase a piece with a cavity, find one that is near the crown or girdle. The impact of a cavity on the clarity is much more if it is close to the pavilion or table.
To remove a wider chip, however, may result in loss of carat weight after a major re-cutting.
When choosing a diamond with crystal inclusions, only go for the white ones. Chances are, they are invisible to the naked eye if it is not too big. On the other hand, dark crystals must be avoided at all cost. Also, take note of where the crystal inclusion is.
It is more difficult to be detected if crystals are under the crown facets, as compared to being under the table.
It is important to look out for the position of the feather. If they are near the girdle area or any cavities, it may cause durability issues for the diamond.
One of the most common reasons for this inclusion is the diamond cutter left an indented natural in order to retain the carat weight.
A knot inclusion also will affect the durability of the diamond in the future.
When three or more pinpoint inclusions cluster together, it becomes a cloud inclusion.
Twinning wisps look like stretch marks on a diamond due to growth defects in its crystal structure. It comprises a party of crystals, clouds, feathers, and pinpoints. Avoid the twinning wisp inclusions if possible.
Choosing the Optimal Diamond Clarity Grade
Diamond Clarity is one of the least important aspects out of the Diamond 4Cs. The naked eye cannot see most inclusions and blemishes. In addition, it does not affect the visual effects of a diamond significantly. In order to maximize your budget, go for diamonds between grades VS1 to VVS1 as the inclusions are not visible without magnification.
We recommend reading about the Diamond Cut, Colour, and Carat Weight in our previous articles before making any purchases. We have also included buying tips and recommendations. Need more tips? Sure, we have compiled a comprehensive list of buying tips! Call or book an appointment to visit us at the Draco Diamonds workshop to know more about choosing the right diamond!
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