Diamond Clarity
Clarity is the measure of the small imperfections found in every diamond.
Diamonds are formed in the earth’s core under extreme heat and pressure which can cause internal markings (inclusions) and external markings (blemishes). The markings are made from tiny minerals, which become trapped while the diamond is formed. These markings are considered to be nature’s fingerprints. Flawless diamonds have little to no imperfections and are extremely rare making them very desirable.
A diamond’s clarity is based on the absence of inclusions and blemishes. The size and number of inclusions, or blemishes, help determine a diamond’s value. The fewer imperfections a diamond have, the more valuable the diamond is considered.
Using a jeweller’s loupe, a small 10-power (10X) magnifying glass to view the diamond, a skilled and certified jeweller can assess and grade the clarity of a diamond. Our trained jewellers are happy to assist you with using the loupe so you can get the best view of your diamond.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) set the standard for clarity characteristics, 11 in total.
A: Flawless (FL)/ Internally Flawless (IF)
- A flawless grade is used for diamonds when a qualified appraiser, under favorable lighting conditionals is unable to find any internal or external blemishes under 10 x magnifications. Internally flawless diamonds are quite rare.
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS)
- Diamonds that receive this grade have small inclusions that are very difficult to see under 10x magnification.
- There are two levels in this grading VVS1 and VVS2.
Very Slightly Included (VS)
- Diamonds receiving this grade have small internal inclusions that are difficult to see unless under 10x magnification.
- There are two levels in this grading VS1 and VS2.
Slightly Included (SI)
- Diamonds receiving this grade have inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification and may also be see unaided by the eye.
- There are two levels in this grading SI1 and SI2.
Included (I)
- Diamonds receiving this grade have inclusions that are noticeably visable under 10x magnification. The inclusions may affect transparency and brilliance.
- There are three levels in this grading I1 and I2 and I3.
A: A diamond’s clarity is based on the absence of inclusions and blemishes. The size and number of inclusions, or blemishes, help determine a diamond’s value the fewer the imperfections the more valuable the diamond.
A: An inclusion, found on the inside of the diamond or a blemish found on the outside of the diamond, is a cluster of small minerals. Think of them as discoloration or marks, that get trapped when a diamond is being formed or when it is being cut, polished, or set into jewellery.
A: To determine a diamond's clarity, it is viewed under a 10x magnification by a skilled and experienced grader. The jewellers’ loupe, a small 10-power (10x) magnifying glass, is typically the tool used to show a customer the characteristics of a diamond and is the standard magnification when assessing diamond clarity. Almost all diamonds have inclusions or blemishes, most too small to see without magnification.