Diamond clarity

Clarity is one of the four value factors that describe and determine the value of a finished diamond.

1. Clarity determines the clarity grade of a single stone. The grade is based on the size, number, position, nature, relief, colour and reflection (tint).

2. Clarity is one of the characteristics that determine the value of the stone.

3. Clarity can help to establish a gem’s identity and quality. It is just unlikely that two diamonds have the same clarity characteristics in identical locations.

Inclusions are enclosed within a gemstone. They might extend into the diamond from the surface.

Blemishes are confined to the gemstone’s surface.

Clarity scale includes eleven diamond clarity grades:

• Flawless (F) ,
• Internally Flawlles (IF),
• Very Very Slightly Included
  (VVS 1 i VVS 2 ),
• Very Slightly Included
  (VS 1 i VS 2 ),
• Slightly Included
  (SI 1 i SI 2 ),
• Included
  (I 1 , I 2 i I 3 ).

Five factors determine the overall effects of characteristics on clarity grade. They are:

• 1. Size (large inclusions affect clarity more than small ones),
• 2. Number(more clarity characteristics means lower grade),
• 3. Position (inclusions are much more visible under the table than under the bezel facets or near the girdle),
• 4. Nature ( whether there is inclusion or blemish and whether these characteristics may be potentially hazardous),
• 5. Color (if the colour of inclusion is different from the diamond’s colour, it is more visible).