We Explain the Clarity in Diamonds

When you compare diamonds prior to choosing a setting, there is a lot talk about the four Cs. Made up of carat, color, cut and clarity, this collection of attributes determines the look and value of the stones. What exactly does clarity mean? Is it possible for a novice buyer to understand this concept and make it work in the showroom or at auction?

The grading of diamond clarity is determined in part by the volume of visible inclusions. They consist of knots, internal graining, added minerals and other naturally occurring effects. When working with cut stones, there are blemishes that affect clarity. These include chips, polish lines and scratches. As a general rule of thumb, a clarity grade is tied directly to the stone’s volume of inclusions and blemishes that can be seen when the diamond is placed under ten times magnification.

Setting the rules is the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Helping to ensure that shoppers could adequately compare a variety of otherwise almost identical stones, the experts have created a clarity grading scale.

Flawless (FL). This is the best evaluation a diamond can receive. It is also the one that is rarely given. When you purchase a diamond with the FL designation, you are guaranteed to receive a stone that shows no types of blemishes or inclusions when placed under ten times magnification. Not surprisingly, these stones carry the largest price tags.

Internally flawless (IF). Whereas the stone could be considered flawless, there is visible surface damage. This makes the diamond ineligible for the FL rating.

Very very slightly included 1 and 2 (VVS1 and VVS2). Stones with a VVS1 rating hint at minor inclusions that are so minute that even a skilled expert has a difficult time detecting them. Diamonds with a VVS2 grading are easier for the expert to detect. With the naked eyes, these inclusions are impossible to see.

Very slightly included (VS1 and VS2). Easier to see under magnification, VS1 stones may still not have inclusions that you can see with the naked eye. When dealing with a VS2 stone, it may be possible to detect the inclusion without magnification.

Slightly included (SI1 and SI2). Experts have an easy time finding the inclusions of these stones under the ten times magnification. Depending on the volume and size of the inclusions, you may be able to see them with the naked eye.

Included (I1, I2 and I3). With or without magnification, even the novice should be able to see these inclusions. In fact, some inclusions may be so severe that they have the potential to affect the overall structure of the stone.

When buying a diamond, look for the GIA certification that gives you all the information you need on the stone’s clarity. If you are buying estate jewelry or find yourself at an auction where you are bidding for a piece that lacks the GIA rating, ask to inspect the diamond under ten times magnification preferably with dark field illumination. If the seller is unwilling to accommodate you, head to a reputable jeweler instead.

At Peter Suchy Jewelers located at 1137 High Ridge Road in Stamford Connecticut we are GIA Certified and we invite you to shop by our showroom.

Or, if you prefer shopping for vintage and estate jewelry online, head on over to our eBay store where you’ll find we are a top-rated PowerSeller with over 5,000 transactions to date and 100 percent positive feedback.

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