Diamond Clarity
When we speak of a diamond's clarity, we are referring to the presence of identifying characteristics on and within the stone. While most of these characteristics are inherent qualities of the rough diamond and have been present since the earliest stages of the crystal's growth below ground, a few are actually a result of the harsh stress that a diamond undergoes during the cutting process itself.
If you think about the incredible amount of pressure it takes to create a diamond, it's no surprise that many diamonds have inclusions—scratches, blemishes, or non-diamond mineral material—on their surface or inside. Diamonds with no or few inclusions and blemishes are more highly valued than those with lower clarity, not just because they are more pleasing to the eye, but also because they are rarer.
How are Diamonds Graded For Clarity?
Diamonds are graded for clarity under 10x loupe magnification. Grades range from Internally Flawless, diamonds which are completely free of blemishes and inclusions even under 10x magnification, to Imperfect 3, diamonds which possess large, heavy blemishes and inclusions that are visible to the naked eye.
F-IF: Flawless or Internally Flawless. Diamonds in this range have no internal inclusions. Very rare.
VVS1-VVS2: Very Very Slightly Included. Inclusions are tiny and few in number and are very difficult to detect, even under 10x magnification.
VS1-VS2: Very Slightly Included. Inclusions are small and are generally invisible to the naked eye and seen only under 10x magnification.
SI1-SI2: Slightly Included. Inclusions are usually either a little larger or greater in number than in a VS stone, or are located more centrally within the stone, rather than off to the sides. These inclusions are fairly easy to find under 10x magnification, though they are usually still invisible to the naked eye. In some cases, inclusions might be slightly visible to the naked eye when the diamond is viewed at certain angles.
I1-I2-I3: Included. Inclusions are large and/or numerous and may be visible to the naked eye. Diamonds with a grade of I3 are generally not considered jewelry-quality and they are not sold by Mondera.
While the presence of these clarity characteristics do lower the clarity grade, and therefore the value, of a diamond they can also be viewed as proof of a diamond's identity. Most AGS and GIA certificates (except for dossiers) include what is known as a "plot" of a diamond's inclusions. (Dossiers identify diamonds with an inscription number and a written description of the main clarity characteristics instead of a plot). Since no two diamonds are exactly the same, comparing the uniqueness of your diamond's clarity characteristics with the plot provided on the diamond certificate offers assurance that the diamond you pay for is the same diamond you receive.
Which Clarity Grade Should I Choose?
While Flawless diamonds are the rarest, and arguably the most beautiful diamonds, a diamond does not have to be completely clean to be extremely attractive. Those diamonds with VVS and VS grades can be excellent choices as well. More affordable are diamonds that have lower clarity grades but that are still "eye-clean"—that is, diamonds that have no inclusions visible to the naked eye. There are plenty of diamonds in the SI1, SI2 and sometimes even I1 clarity ranges that can offer an excellent cost-savings and that will have an eye-clean appearance that makes them indistinguishable from a higher-clarity diamond when viewed by the naked eye.
The pricing of a diamond is based, in part, on its clarity.
