Clarity

Clarity is a term used to describe the relative absence of clarity characteristics, inclusions and blemishes.  Diamonds internal features are inclusions, and the surface irregularities are blemishes.  Some diamond inclusions may break the surface of the stone, but because they recede into the diamond they are still considered inclusions.  Blemishes are the scratches and nicks found on a diamond’s surface.

I consider inclusions to be the fingerprint of every stone, because diamonds form in nature and no two are a like. Because no two diamonds are identical, inclusions like fingerprints help identify individual stones. Clarity characteristics are most helpful in the separation of diamond stimulants.  It is obviously easier to tell the differences with included diamonds verses flawless ones.

Clarity’s influence on value directly relate to the concept of rarity.  Clarity grades help categorizes diamonds in groups, based on the visibility and location of the inclusions in the diamond.

Flawless (Fl)
Shows no inclusions of any sort under 10X magnification when observed by an experienced grader,

Internally Flawless (IF)
Has no inclusions when examined by an experienced grader at 10X magnification, but will have minor surface blemishes.

Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)
Contains minute inclusions that are difficult even for experienced graders to see under 10X magnification.

Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)
Contains minute inclusions such as small crystals, clouds, or feathers when observed with effort under 10X magnification.

Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)
Contains inclusions (clouds, included crystals, knots, cavities, and feathers) that are noticeable to an experienced grader under 10X magnification.

Included (I1, I2, and I3)
Contains inclusions (possibly large feathers or large included crystals) that are obvious under 10X magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance.