Certification/Grading - The Diamond Gurus

Having a good understanding of how to choose a diamond is important before making a big diamond purchase, like an engagement ring. Experts agree that you should definitely understand the four C's of diamonds, with clarity being one of these. Here are seven important items to understand about a diamond's clarity. 1. Clarity is simply a measure of a diamond's imperfections. The ideal diamond is flawless, meaning it has no imperfections. Few diamonds meet this standard, but the clarity measure shows exactly how close a particular diamond comes to being flawless. A diamond's imperfections are referred to as inclusions. 2. A diamond's imperfections often are not noticeable to the naked eye. Many imperfections are unseen without special equipment. So, though your diamond may have imperfections that affect its clarity rating, you may never notice. 3. Clarity is measured on a scale. The scale is as follows: Fl, IF – these measurements stand for flawless and internally flawless, meaning a diamond with no imperfections. This type of diamond is extremely rare. VVS1, VVS2 – Very, very slightly included. This is an exceptional diamond. Imperfections are very difficult to see even under 10x magnification. VS1, VS2 – Very slightly included – Imperfections are not visible to the naked eye, but can be viewed with magnification. SI1, SI2 – Imperfections can be seen under 10x magnification, and some may be visible with the naked eye. I1 – Included – Some imperfections that are visible to the naked eye. I2, I3 – Multiple inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. These diamonds look flawed, even to the novice diamond owner. 4. Clarity affects price. As you might imagine, the fewer inclusions a diamond carries, the higher its price. This is why it is so important to go into a diamond purchase with a good understanding of how much you can afford to spend. You want to buy the best diamond that fits within your budget, and this includes determining which level of clarity is right for you. 5. Most reputable jewelers don't carry highly included diamonds. It is rare to find I2 and I3 diamonds for sale at the best jewelers. Most reputable jewelers want to provide their customers with diamonds that are, at the very least, clean to the naked eye. If you see a diamond that is significantly lower in price than others around it, be certain to double-check the clarity grade. 6. Aim for the middle of the Four C's of Diamonds. Clarity levels sought by most buyers include VS1, VS2 or SI1, SI2 categories. These diamonds look perfect to the eye and offer a very good value for your money. 7. Get an expert opinion. If you feel confused in trying to determine which clarity grade is right for you, or how to balance each of the four C's to get the best overall diamond, talk to an expert. A diamond expert is happy to help you understand all the considerations in your diamond choice. https://youtu.be/JkybfyLO2FI Now that you understand clarity as is pertains to the four C's of diamonds, you are much better armed to start shopping for a diamond ring. It is critical to consider each of the four C's as you work to pick out the perfect diamond for you. 1. Introduction to Diamond Clarity Have you ever seen a diamond up close? Maybe you've seen one on TV, or in a jewelry store window, but have you ever held one in your hand and examined it closely? If you have, you might have noticed that not all diamonds are created equal. Some are sparkling and clear, while others might have tiny imperfections or blemishes. These imperfections are called "inclusions," and they can affect the value and appearance of a diamond. In this article, we're going to learn all about diamond clarity – what it is, how it's graded, and why it matters. We'll also talk about how to choose the right clarity grade when you're shopping for a diamond, and how to care for your diamonds to keep them looking beautiful. I know some of you might be wondering, "Why should I care about diamond clarity? I just want a pretty ring!" And I get it – we all want a diamond that's going to sparkle and shine. But there's more to it than that. Understanding diamond clarity can help you make informed decisions when you're shopping for diamonds, and it can also help you appreciate the unique beauty of each and every diamond. So let's get started! I can't wait to dive into the world of diamond clarity with all of you. What is diamond clarity? Diamond clarity is all about the imperfections, or inclusions, that can be found in diamonds. And believe it or not, these imperfections can actually make each diamond unique and special. So, what exactly is diamond clarity? Well, clarity refers to the presence or absence of inclusions and blemishes in a diamond. Inclusions are internal flaws, like tiny crystals or cracks, while blemishes are external imperfections, like scratches or chips. In general, diamonds with fewer inclusions and blemishes are considered to be of higher clarity. Textbook Definition of Diamond Clarity: Diamond clarity is a measure of the existence and appearance of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (surface defects) in a diamond. It is one of the four Cs of diamond grading, along with carat, color, and cut. Inclusions are substances that become trapped in a diamond as it forms, and can be visible under magnification. The number, size, and visibility of inclusions, as well as the presence of blemishes, can affect a diamond's clarity grade. Higher clarity grades are generally more valuable, with "flawless" diamonds being the most highly prized. Inclusions and blemishes can also be used as unique identifying marks and evidence of a diamond's natural origin. Diamonds are formed deep within the earth, and sometimes they can have tiny imperfections or blemishes inside or on the surface. These imperfections are called "inclusions" and "blemishes," and they can affect the way light travels through the diamond, which in turn affects its sparkle and shine. I'm really excited to dive into this topic with you all and I hope you'll come away with a new appreciation for the beauty and complexity of diamonds. How is diamond clarity graded? You might be wondering, "How do people determine a diamond's clarity?" Well, that's where the grading system comes in. Gemologists, or experts in diamonds and other precious stones, use a specific set of criteria to evaluate a diamond's clarity and assign it a grade. This grade is based on the size, number, and position of any inclusions or blemishes within the diamond. The most widely accepted grading system is called the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Clarity Scale. This scale has six categories, ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). Let's take a closer look at each category: Flawless (FL): Diamonds in this category have no visible inclusions or blemishes when viewed under 10x magnification by a trained gemologist. These diamonds are extremely rare and highly prized. Very Very Slightly Included (VVS): Diamonds in this category have very small inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification. These diamonds are also rare and highly valued. Very Slightly Included (VS): Diamonds in this category have small inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification, but not visible to the naked eye. These diamonds are still considered to be of good clarity. Slightly Included (SI): Diamonds in this category have inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification and may also be visible to the naked eye. These diamonds are still considered to be of good clarity, but may not be as highly valued as those in the higher categories. Included (I): Diamonds in this category have inclusions that are visible to the naked eye and may affect the diamond's transparency and overall appearance. These diamonds are the least valuable in terms of clarity. It's important to note that the GIA Clarity Scale is just one way to grade diamond clarity. There are other systems in use as well, but the GIA scale is the most widely accepted and respected. The importance of diamond clarity I know some of you might be wondering why we should even care about diamond clarity. After all, can't we just focus on the size or color of a diamond instead? While size and color are certainly important factors to consider, diamond clarity is just as important because it affects the overall appearance of the diamond. Imagine two diamonds side by side: one with high clarity and one with low clarity. Even if the two diamonds are the same size and color, the diamond with high clarity is going to look much more sparkling and dazzling because the light is able to travel through it more easily. On the other hand, the diamond with low clarity might look dull or cloudy because the light is blocked by inclusions or blemishes. Diamonds with higher clarity grades are generally more valuable. This is because diamonds with fewer inclusions are rarer and more desirable. In fact, diamonds with the highest clarity grades, such as Flawless or Very Very Slightly Included (VVS), can command much higher prices than diamonds with lower clarity grades. But beyond just value, diamond clarity also affects a diamond's appearance. Inclusions can sometimes be seen with the naked eye, and they can distract from the diamond's overall beauty. Diamonds with higher clarity grades tend to have a cleaner, more sparkling look. Some people may value a higher clarity grade, while others may be more focused on other factors. As a professor of gemology, my advice is to consider all of the factors that are important to you and make a decision that aligns with your own personal style and budget. So, as you can see, diamond clarity is an essential factor to consider when evaluating the beauty and value of a diamond. In the next few lessons, we'll be diving deeper into the different clarity grades, the factors that affect diamond clarity, and how to choose the right clarity grade for you. Alright, now that we've covered the basics, let's dive into the details of the diamond clarity grading system. Are you guys ready? 2. The Diamond Clarity Scale Are you ready to learn about the diamond clarity scale? This is one of the most important things to understand when it comes to diamonds because it tells you how clear or flawless a diamond is. It's kind of like a report card for diamonds! The diamond clarity scale has different categories that tell you how included a diamond is. We'll talk about each of these categories in detail in this chapter. The grading system for diamond clarity There are several different factors that go into determining the clarity of a diamond, including the size, number, and type of blemishes or inclusions that are present in the diamond. To grade the clarity of a diamond, gemologists use a set of guidelines called the "diamond clarity scale". This scale is a way to measure the clarity of a diamond and assign it a specific grade. The diamond clarity scale consists of six main categories: flawless, very very slightly included (VVS), very slightly included (VS), slightly included (SI), and included (I). The higher the grade on the scale, the fewer blemishes or inclusions a diamond has, and the higher the quality of the diamond. For example, a flawless diamond would be considered the highest quality, because it has no blemishes or inclusions that are visible under a microscope. On the other hand, a diamond that is included would have blemishes or inclusions that are visible to the naked eye, and would be considered a lower quality diamond. To determine the clarity grade of a diamond, gemologists use a combination of tools, including microscopes and magnifiers, to carefully examine the diamond and identify any blemishes or inclusions. They then compare the diamond to the guidelines on the diamond clarity scale to determine the appropriate grade. Be aware that the diamond clarity scale is a subjective system, and different gemologists may have slightly different opinions on the clarity grade of a particular diamond. However, overall, the diamond clarity scale is a useful tool for evaluating the quality of a diamond and helping consumers understand the different grades of diamond clarity. Flawless diamonds Flawless diamonds are some of the most beautiful and highly sought-after diamonds in the world. But what exactly makes a diamond "flawless"? A flawless diamond is a diamond that has no blemishes or inclusions that are visible under a microscope. This means that when a gemologist looks at the diamond under high magnification, they should not be able to see any imperfections or blemishes on the surface of the diamond, or inside the diamond. Flawless diamonds are extremely rare, and they are considered to be the highest quality diamonds on the diamond clarity scale. Because they are so rare and perfect, flawless diamonds are also some of the most expensive diamonds you can buy. You might be thinking, "If flawless diamonds are so perfect, why don't all diamonds try to be flawless?" Well, there are a few reasons for this. First of all, it's simply very difficult to find a diamond that is completely flawless. Most diamonds have at least some small blemishes or inclusions, even if they are not visible to the naked eye. In addition, diamonds that are almost flawless, but not quite, are often just as beautiful and valuable as flawless diamonds but may be more affordable for consumers. So, while flawless diamonds are certainly impressive and highly sought after, they are not the only option when it comes to high-quality diamonds. There are plenty of other diamonds with different clarity grades that are also beautiful and valuable, and that might be more realistic options for some consumers. Internally Flawless diamonds Internally Flawless diamonds are a type of diamond that have no inclusions (flaws or blemishes) visible under 10x magnification. This means that, when viewed through a jeweler's loupe or microscope, these diamonds are completely free of any blemishes or imperfections. These diamonds are extremely rare and are considered to be some of the highest-quality diamonds available. "Internally Flawless" diamonds are different from "Flawless" diamonds. "Flawless" diamonds are those that have no inclusions or blemishes at all, both internally and externally. This means that they are not only free of any visible flaws under magnification but also have a perfect surface finish. "Internally Flawless" diamonds, on the other hand, may have very minor external blemishes that are not visible to the naked eye but are still considered to be of very high quality. When it comes to buying diamonds, "Internally Flawless" diamonds are a great option for those who want a high-quality diamond with a beautiful, clear appearance. These diamonds are very rare, so they may be more expensive than diamonds with lower clarity grades. If you have the budget for it, an "Internally Flawless" diamond can be a truly stunning and special addition to any piece of jewelry. Very Very Slightly Included (VVS) diamonds "Very Very Slightly Included" (VVS) diamonds are a type of diamond that have very small inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification. These inclusions are usually only visible to a trained gemologist using specialized equipment. VVS diamonds are very high quality and more expensive than diamonds with lower clarity grades. The small size and difficulty of seeing the inclusions make these diamonds very desirable. VVS diamonds can be a great option if you want a high-quality diamond with excellent clarity. While these diamonds may be slightly more expensive than diamonds with lower clarity grades, they are still a good value and can offer a beautiful and clear appearance. VVS diamonds are different from "Flawless" diamonds. VVS diamonds may have very small inclusions that are difficult to see but are still considered to be of very high quality. Two types of VVS diamonds There are two types of VVS diamonds: "VVS1" and "VVS2." "VVS1" diamonds have very small inclusions that are only visible when inspected from the bottom. While "VVS2" diamonds have inclusions that are only visible when inspected from the top. Both types of VVS diamonds are still considered to be of very high quality, but "VVS1" diamonds are generally more expensive due to their even higher level of clarity. In terms of aesthetics, VVS diamonds are a great choice for those who want a beautiful, clear diamond without sacrificing quality. They are also a good option for those who want a diamond with a high level of clarity but may not have the budget for a "Flawless" or "Internally Flawless" diamond. Overall, "Very Very Slightly Included" (VVS) diamonds are a high-quality option for those looking for a diamond with excellent clarity. Very Slightly Included (VS) diamonds "Very Slightly Included" (VS) diamonds are a type of diamond that have small inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification, but are generally not visible to the naked eye. This means that, while these diamonds may have some minor imperfections when viewed under magnification, they will look perfectly clear and sparkling when worn as jewelry. VS diamonds are considered to be a good quality option for those who want a clear and attractive diamond without having to pay the high price of a "Flawless" or "Internally Flawless" diamond. They are also a good choice for those who want a diamond with a high level of clarity but may not have the budget for a "Very Very Slightly Included" (VVS) diamond. Two types of VS diamonds There are two types of VS diamonds: "VS1" and "VS2." "VS1" diamonds have small inclusions that are only visible under close examination, while "VS2" diamonds have slightly larger inclusions that may be more noticeable to the naked eye. Both types of VS diamonds are still considered to be of high quality, but "VS1" diamonds are generally more expensive due to their slightly higher level of clarity. VS diamonds are usually considered to be "eye-clean," meaning that they do not have any visible blemishes or inclusions when viewed by the naked eye. While they may have some minor imperfections under magnification, these are not noticeable when the diamond is worn as jewelry. This makes VS diamonds a popular choice for those who want a clear and attractive diamond without having to pay the premium price of a "Flawless" or "VSS" diamond. Slightly Included (SI) diamonds "Slightly Included" (SI) diamonds are a type of diamond that have small to medium-sized inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification and may be visible to the naked eye. These inclusions are typically not noticeable when the diamond is worn as jewelry, but they may be visible when the diamond is viewed up close. SI diamonds are a good quality option for those who want a clear and attractive diamond at a more affordable price than "Flawless" or "Internally Flawless" diamonds. They are also a good choice for those who are willing to trade off a little bit of clarity in exchange for a lower price. Two types of SI diamonds There are two types of SI diamonds: "SI1" and "SI2." "SI1" diamonds have small to medium-sized inclusions that are usually not visible to the naked eye, while "SI2" diamonds have slightly larger inclusions that may be more noticeable when viewed up close. Both types of SI diamonds are considered to be of good quality, but "SI1" diamonds are generally more expensive due to their higher level of clarity. In terms of aesthetics, SI diamonds are a good choice for those who want a clear and attractive diamond without having to pay the premium price of a "Flawless", "VSS", or "VS" diamond. While they may have some minor imperfections under magnification, these are generally not noticeable when the diamond is worn as jewelry. Overall, SI diamonds are a good quality and affordable option for those looking to purchase a diamond. Included (I) diamonds "Included" (I) diamonds are a type of diamond that have medium to large-sized inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. These inclusions can range from small specks or cracks to large feathers or clouds, and they can significantly impact the appearance and value of the diamond. I diamonds are a lower-quality option for those who are looking for a more affordable diamond. They may be a good choice for those who are on a tight budget and are willing to trade off clarity for a lower price. The inclusions in I diamonds may be more noticeable when the diamond is worn as jewelry, which can affect its appearance and overall appeal. Three types of I diamonds There are three types of I diamonds: "I1," "I2," and "I3." "I1" diamonds have medium to large-sized inclusions that are visible to the naked eye and may significantly impact the appearance of the diamond. "I2" diamonds have similar inclusions but may be slightly less noticeable when viewed up close. "I3" diamonds have very large inclusions that are usually highly noticeable and may significantly impact the diamond's appearance and value. In terms of aesthetics, I diamonds may not be the best choice for those who want a clear and attractive diamond. The inclusions in these diamonds may be noticeable when the diamond is worn as jewelry and can impact its overall appearance. However, if you are on a tight budget and are willing to trade off some clarity for a lower price, an I diamond may be a good option for you. 3. Factors that Affect Diamond Clarity We're going to take a closer look at the various factors that can affect a diamond's clarity and how they can impact the quality of the diamond. There are a lot of different factors that can affect a diamond's clarity, and we're going to cover them all in this chapter. But here's a sneak peek of what we'll be discussing: the type and size of the inclusions or blemishes within the diamond, the way the diamond is cut and polished, and even how the diamond is cared for and maintained over time. You'll have a much better understanding of the different factors that can impact a diamond's clarity and how they can affect the quality of the diamond. Internal inclusions Internal inclusions are imperfections that are found within the diamond itself. These can be things like small crystals, fractures, or even tiny air bubbles that are trapped inside the diamond. Some internal inclusions are so small that they can only be seen under high magnification, while others are more noticeable and can impact the clarity of the diamond. Crystals There are a few different types of internal inclusions that can be found within a diamond. One common type is called a "crystal." Crystals are small minerals that are found within the diamond and can appear as small dots or lines under magnification. Crystals are usually not very noticeable and do not typically impact the clarity of the diamond. Fractures Another type of internal inclusion is called a "fracture." Fractures are small cracks or fissures that can occur within the diamond and can be visible under magnification. Fractures can affect the clarity of the diamond and may make it less valuable. Pinpoints A third type of internal inclusion is called a "pinpoint." Pinpoints are very small inclusions that are found within the diamond and can only be seen under high magnification. They are usually not very noticeable and do not typically impact the clarity of the diamond. Air bubbles Air bubbles are tiny pockets of air that are trapped within the diamond. They are usually not noticeable to the naked eye, but they can affect the clarity of the diamond when viewed under magnification. External blemishes External blemishes are imperfections that are found on the surface of the diamond. These can be things like scratches, chips, or even cracks that are visible on the diamond's surface. External blemishes can be caused by a variety of factors, including the way the diamond was mined, the way it was cut and polished, or even the way it was worn over time. The type and size of the external blemishes found on a diamond can affect its clarity and overall quality. For example, a diamond with small, faint blemishes may be considered to be of higher quality than a diamond with larger, more noticeable blemishes. There are several different types of external blemishes that can be found on a diamond. Some common examples include: Scratches Scratches are thin, straight lines that are found on the surface of the diamond. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, improper handling, or even contact with other hard surfaces. Scratches can affect the clarity of the diamond and may make it less shiny or sparkly. Chips Chips are small, rounded pieces of material that have been broken off the surface of the diamond. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper handling, contact with other hard surfaces, or even the way the diamond was cut and polished. Chips can affect the clarity of the diamond and may make it less attractive. Cracks Cracks are long, straight lines that are found on the surface of the diamond. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, improper handling, or even the way the diamond was mined. Cracks can affect the clarity of the diamond and may make it more prone to breakage. Diamond cutting and polishing Let's take a closer look at how diamonds are transformed from rough, uncut stones into the beautiful, sparkling gems that we know and love. Diamond cutting and polishing is a skilled and artful process that requires a lot of precision and attention to detail. The way a diamond is cut and polished can have a big impact on its overall appearance and clarity. A diamond that is cut and polished poorly may not sparkle as much or look as attractive as a diamond that is cut and polished well. 4. Buying Diamonds: Clarity Considerations Choosing the right clarity grade Trade-offs between clarity and other factors Evaluating diamonds in person 5. Caring for Diamonds: Maintaining Clarity Cleaning and storing diamonds Protecting diamonds from damage Professional maintenance and repair 6. Diamond Clarity and Appraisals Determining the value of a diamond Factors that impact diamond value Appraising diamond jewelry Conclusion: The Role of Diamond Clarity in Jewelry The aesthetics of diamond clarity The symbolic meaning of diamonds The lasting appeal of diamond jewelry