Diamond Clarity Explanation: Understanding the Impact of Internal and External Blemishes
When we admire the sparkling diamonds in jewelry stores, it is hard to imagine that these beautiful gems actually come from the magma in the mantle deep in the earth. Diamonds "grow" through billions of years of geological changes under extremely high pressures and temperatures. However, this long formation process will inevitably bring internal or external defects to the diamond, and these defects directly affect the clarity and value of the diamond.
What is Diamond Clarity?
Diamond clarity refers to the degree of internal and external flaws in the diamond. The most common inclusions include crystals, feathers and clouds. Gemologists typically examine diamonds using a 10x magnifying glass to observe the number, size, color, and distribution of flaws and grade them. The diamond clarity graded by GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is divided into 11 levels:
Diamond Clarity Grade Analysis
- FL (Flawless): The diamond has no flaws inside or outside under a 10x magnifying glass, and is the most perfect clarity.
- IF (Internally Flawless): Internally flawless, but may have very minor external blemishes that can be removed by repolishing.
- VVS (Very Slightly Slightly Stained): Divided into VVS1 and VVS2, the defects are extremely small and difficult to detect under a 10x magnifying glass.
- VS (Very Slightly Slightly Blemished): Divided into VS1 and VS2, the defects are visible under a magnifying glass, but have little effect on the brilliance.
- SI (Slightly Stained) is divided into SI1 and SI2. The defects are easier to detect under a magnifying glass, and the defects of SI2 are sometimes visible to the naked eye.
- I (Impaired): Divided into I1 and I2, the flaws may be visible to the naked eye, while the flaws of I3 are more obvious, affecting the appearance and brilliance.
How to Choose the Right Diamond Clarity?
Choosing diamond clarity should be based on the purpose and budget:
- Engagement ring: It is recommended to choose diamonds of VS2 or above to ensure that the flaws have minimal impact on the appearance.
- Wedding rings: If your budget is limited, consider SI1 grade, as flaws are usually difficult to detect with the naked eye.
- For collection or investment purposes: Choose FL or IF grade diamonds, which are rare and have the highest value.
Explore our collection of natural diamonds , or learn more about our cultured diamond options.
Clarity of Natural and Cultured Diamonds
The clarity of natural diamonds is determined by the geological environment, and the distribution of inclusions is more natural. Cultured diamonds (also called laboratory diamonds or artificial diamonds ) are grown in a laboratory under high pressure and high temperature. They have fewer and more controlled inclusions and can therefore often achieve higher clarity grades.
Learn more about the benefits of cultured diamonds and find the perfect option for you.
FAQ
Q: Does diamond clarity affect its sparkle?
A: Yes, the size and location of inclusions will affect the brilliance of a diamond, but the cut has a greater impact on brilliance.
Q: Are SI grade diamonds suitable for engagement rings?
A: SI1 diamonds usually have flaws that are difficult to detect with the naked eye, making them an ideal choice when budget is limited, but it is recommended to avoid SI2 diamonds.
Q: Are cultured diamonds clearer than natural diamonds?
A: Cultured diamonds have fewer inclusions, typically achieve higher clarity grades, and are more attractively priced.
