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This is a discussion of diamond clarity, including a Macromedia Flash interactive tool that shows examples of different clarity grades. [Easy
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The Four C's: Clarity
Courtesy of ShaneCo.com Jewelers, high-quality,
great prices, on engagement rings, wedding rings,
diamond rings, wedding bands, pearls, and more.
Clarity
The "C" of clarity refers to a stone's purity. Clarity is evaluated by viewing the stone under 10X magnification. Virtually all diamonds contain tiny natural birthmarks that are present to varying degrees. After all, nature is rarely perfect, and that extends to diamonds! These marks serve as the identifying "fingerprint" that makes every stone unique.
What is that speck?
These tiny identifying marks consist of "naturals" on the outside or inclusions on the inside of the stone. Inclusions refer to anything that is trapped within the diamond crystal. Nearly all diamonds, even those of the highest quality, have some inclusions, which fall into these categories:
- Mineral inclusions - a dark spot from a trapped bit of mineral
- Naturals - open cavities interrupting the diamond surface that were a part of the original diamond crystal
- Feathers -internal cracks or fractures caused by either internal or external stress during the diamond's formation.
How clarity is graded
While there are several grading systems used in the industry, the most recognized and commonly used system is the one developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
What the GIA Clarity Gradings Ratings Mean
Use your mouse to move the loupe over each grade of diamond. Then click the red button to see its individual inclusions.
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FL IF VVS1, VVS2 VS1, VS2 SI1, SI2 I1 I2, I3 The effect of positioning
As a rule, the less visible the location of the inclusion, the less impact on the stone's value.
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