Diamond clarity is one of the four Cs of diamond grading, along with carat, color, and cut. It refers to the presence or absence of internal and external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes. While some inclusions and blemishes are visible to the naked eye, most are only visible under magnification.
The clarity grade of a diamond is determined by a gemologist who uses a 10x loupe to inspect the stone. The gemologist will consider the number, size, location, nature, and relief of the inclusions and blemishes when assigning a clarity grade.
The clarity scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). FL diamonds have no visible inclusions or blemishes under 10x magnification. I3 diamonds have large, visible inclusions that affect the beauty of the stone.
Most diamonds fall somewhere in between FL and I3 on the clarity scale. The most common clarity grades are VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, and SI2. These grades indicate that the inclusions are very small, very difficult to see, or difficult to see with the naked eye.
The clarity of a diamond can affect its price. Diamonds with higher clarity grades are generally more expensive than diamonds with lower clarity grades. However, it is important to remember that not all inclusions and blemishes are created equal. Some
inclusions are more noticeable than others, and some can even enhance the beauty of a diamond.
For example, a small black inclusion can create a “chatoyancy” effect, which is a shimmering or cat’s eye effect. Similarly, a feather inclusion can add a touch of fire to a diamond.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pay for a higher clarity grade is a personal one. If you are looking for a diamond with no visible flaws, then you will need to be prepared to pay a premium. However, if you are willing to accept some inclusions and blemishes, you can save money on a diamond that is still beautiful and valuable.
Lab Grown Diamonds
Lab grown diamonds are created in a laboratory using a process called chemical vapor deposition (CVD). CVD involves heating a carbon source, such as methane, in a
chamber with a high concentration of hydrogen. The carbon atoms are then deposited onto a substrate, such as a diamond seed, to create a diamond crystal.
Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. They are also graded on the same clarity scale. However, lab grown diamonds are typically much less expensive than mined diamonds.
There are a number of reasons why lab grown diamonds are less expensive than mined diamonds. First, the cost of production is lower. Second, there is no need to mine diamonds, which can be a destructive process. Third, there is no need to market and distribute lab grown diamonds, which also adds to the cost of mined diamonds.
If you are looking for a beautiful and valuable diamond at a fraction of the cost, then a lab grown diamond may be a good option for you.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when considering diamond clarity:
- The clarity of a diamond is not the only factor that affects its value. Other factors, such as carat, color, and cut, are also important.
- It is important to have a diamond appraised by a qualified gemologist before you buy it. This will ensure that you are getting a diamond that is of the quality and value that you expect.
- If you are concerned about the environmental impact of mining diamonds, then you may want to consider buying a lab grown diamond. Lab grown diamonds are created in a laboratory without the need to mine diamonds, which can be a destructive process.
