Written by A term used to illustrate the lack or presence of flaws inside or on the surface of a diamond or other gemstone is diamond clarity. Without studying the gems via a jeweler’s magnification loupe, most imperfections that can be found in jewelry grade diamonds cannot be noticed; and a perfect stone with perfect clarity or clearness is rare.
Terms to Know About Diamond Clarity
Diamond Clarity Inclusions
* Disorders or imperfections within a diamond.
* Very small blotches of white, black, or other colors.
* Chips. Some may not trigger any problem whatsoever. But others can cause a split to the diamond.
* Colored and uncolored crystals.
Diamond Clarity Blemishes
* Flaws on a diamond’s external surface.
* With the cutting and polishing method, many disorders are found on the external surface of the stone.
In certifying diamond clarity, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) makes use of 10 times intensification. Diamond labellings for clarity are as follows:
Fl, Flawless
* No defects, both in and out.
IF, Internally Flawless
* No imperfections found internally. Light lesions are found on the external surface of the stone.
VVS1 & VVS2, Very, very slightly included.
* Tiny inclusions. Even for an experienced grader, they are challenging to discover.
VS1 & VS2, Very slightly included
* Tiny inclusions; a seasoned grader has difficulty discovering.
SI1 & SI2, Slightly included
* Inclusions are easily recognized by a seasoned grader.
I1 & I2 & I3, Included
* Blemishes are obvious that they influence the stone’s visibility and brilliance.
Even a seasoned 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 deter from the beauty of the stone when you attain the level of “I” categories.
For those who have chosen a stone that is not near the top of the scale, it is not a case of concern.
Diamond Flaws
The location of a diamond’s imperfections has to be regarded in relation to the stone’s cut; when positioned in specific areas, some imperfections are more visible. Advice about bad positions of defects can be provided by your jeweler.
The author of the book “Diamonds, The Antoinette Matlins Buying Guide,” points out that since no two stones are the same, the flaws offer an important road map that may help us determine our property; she also encourages us to know the defects within our stones.
Clarity Enhancement of Diamonds
Treatments can improve diamond clarity although not all techniques are permanent. Two most common treatments are:
Diamond Laser Treatments
* Some types of inclusions are removed with the use of a laser. Normally, a seasoned jeweler can detect the trail left by the laser.
* Laser treatments are irreversible.
Fracture Filled Diamonds
* A colorless substance is used to fill the tiny cracks in a diamond.
* Fracture filled enhancements are not fixed.
As a result of treatments, a diamond seems to be of a higher clarity than it truly is. You should buy diamonds from a reliable jeweler who can evaluate and disclose if a treatment has been performed because treated diamonds should be less expensive.
Among the other factors, consider diamond clarity before purchasing a diamond. Its color, cut, carat weight and other elements should also be considered. The quest for the finest diamond that matches your preferences is like a jigsaw puzzle. You will know that you have discovered the perfect stone for you when all the pieces have been completely put together.
