Diamond Clarity Defined

Diamond clarity is a term used to identify the absence or presence of flaws inside a diamond and gemstone or on the surface of the stone. A perfect stone with perfect clarity or clearness is rare and without exploring the gems through a jeweler’s magnifying loupe most flaws that exist in jewelry grade diamonds cannot be seen.If you have ever considered buying diamonds online to save some hard earned cash then I recommend that you go and visit our review of James Allen.com

Diamond Clarity Terms to Remember

Diamond Clarity Inclusions

* Imperfections or flaws, inside a diamond.

* Tiny spots of white, black, or other colors.

* Breaks. Some may not trigger any problem at all. But others can cause a split to the stone.

* Colored and uncolored crystals.

Diamond Clarity Blemishes

* Flaws on a diamond’s exterior surface.

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In grading diamond clarity, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses 10 times magnification. Diamond labellings for clarity are as follows:

Fl, Flawless

* No flaws found, both internally and externally.

IF, Internally Flawless

* No internal flaws. Slight external blemishes.

VVS1 & VVS2, Very, very slightly included.

* Tiny inclusions. Detection of these flaws can be difficult even for an experienced grader.

VS1 & VS2, Very slightly included

* Tiny inclusions; not easily seen by an experienced grader.

SI1 & SI2, Slightly included

* Inclusions are easily noticed by an experienced grader.

I1 & I2 & I3, Included

* The stone’s transparency and brilliance are affected by obvious inclusions.

Even an experienced jeweler usually cannot see the flaws in a stone without magnification; as mentioned in the detailed explanations in each category of the diamond clarity. The diamond’s brilliance is not affected by most of the tiny imperfections. Imperfections begin to detract from the beauty of the diamond when you reach the level of “I” categories.

If you have chosen a stone that is not near the top of the scale, it is not a case of concern.

Consider the Location of Diamond Flaws

When positioned in specific ways, some flaws are more noticeable; important consideration must be given to the location of a diamond’s flaw in relation to the stone’s cut. You can ask advice from your jeweler about poor positions of flaws.

Since no two stones are alike, the flaws provide a road map for us to identify our own diamonds; this was pointed out by the author of the book “Diamonds, The Antoinette Matlins Buying Guide”; she further encourages to get to know the imperfections within our diamonds.

Clarity Enhancement of Diamonds

Although treatments can enhance diamond clarity, not all enhancement techniques are permanent. Two most popular treatments are:

Laser Treated Diamonds

* Some types of inclusions are removed with the use of a laser. The laser leaves a trail which is usually seen by an experienced jeweler.

*  Laser treatments are permanent.

Diamond Fracture Filling

* If the diamond has tiny cracks, they are filled with a colorless substance.

* Fracture filled enhancements are not permanent.

A diamond appears to be of higher clarity than it truly is, after the treatment. When a diamond has been treated, it should cost less; therefore your jeweler should be able to evaluate and disclose any type of treatment that has been performed.

Among the other elements, consider diamond clarity before purchasing a stone. Take also in consideration the diamond’s color, cut, carat weight and other factors. Searching the best diamond to purchase is like solving a large jigsaw puzzle. You’ll stop only once you have put the pieces together; just like finding the perfect diamond. I recommend that you visit Easydiamondguide.com For our full guide on buying diamonds.