10 May A Definitive Guide To the Diamond Clarity Scale
As you begin to understand what goes into a quality diamond, one of the most important aspects to keep in mind is the stone’s clarity. A diamond with poor clarity has flaws and isn’t as desirable as a flawless stone. With a definitive guide to the diamond clarity scale, you’ll understand how the experts measure clarity and how to find the ideal stone.
What Is It?
Let’s begin by diving into what clarity is. Clarity is a measure of how many imperfections the diamond has. Since diamonds are natural stones made from the earth, some flaws on the inside and outside of the stone are normal. An imperfection on the inside of a diamond is an inclusion, while blemishes appear on the surface.
How It Affects the Diamond
Inclusions and blemishes affect the shine of a diamond and its ability to reflect light. A diamond with multiple blemishes and inclusions will not allow light to pass through it properly, making it appear dull. Luckily, during the lapping process, inclusions may get cut out or hidden.
What Factors Determine Clarity?
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) bases clarity on the grading scale; these professional gemologists determined that the inclusion’s size, nature, number, location, and how noticeable it is all impact clarity.
The Effect of These Factors
For example, a diamond with multiple large imperfections or those in easily noticeable areas will score lower in clarity than a diamond with only a few small ones, thereby worsening the color of the diamond.
How Do I Know What’s Best?
The diamond clarity grading scale measures how many flaws a diamond has; diamonds with a rating of IF are internally flawless, while diamonds graded an I2 or I3 are very flawed. The range of grades between those goes in order of very very slightly included (VVS1) to significant inclusions (SI2).
Buying What’s Ideal
Often when looking for a diamond, buyers assume they must purchase one with a VVS1 grading; however, this isn’t always the case. In fact, spotting the difference between an IF and VVS1 or VVS2 is nearly impossible without a jeweler’s loop, which is why many purchase a diamond with a clarity of SI1 while shopping for natural diamond wedding rings.
Keep in mind this definitive guide to the diamond clarity scale as you search for the perfect diamond. The clarity of a diamond affects its worth; the lower its grade, the less brilliance it has. Look at Fire & Ice Diamonds for beautiful, brilliant diamonds that will symbolize your eternal love!