Diamond Clarity
101
Diamonds are considered as the most
expensive gems nowadays. It has more brilliance, higher value, and very durable
as it become useful both in industries and jewelry. Diamonds are graded
according to the standard four c’s; Carat, Clarity, Color, and Cut, to identify
the quality and authenticity.
The diamond clarity is
checked according to its internal and external characteristics known as
inclusions and blemishes. Impurities, tiny minerals, and scratches are some the
imperfections of the diamond clarity.Diamonds having the clearest
characteristicsis are very rare.
The chart, as part of the diamond
clarity grading, has been created by Gemological Institute of America (GIA). It
is a great help to diamond graders to distinctively identify the clarity of
each diamond pertaining to how visible the inclusions and blemishes are.
In GIA’s chart, there are different
grading gradings:
1.
FL (Flawless) and IF
(Internally Flawless)
Diamonds
under this grade are extremely rare. FL grade means that it is completely
flawless while the IF grade has only blemishes seen under a 10x magnification.
2.
VVS(Very, Very Slightly
Included)
The
VVS grade has two divisions: VVS1 and VVS2. Both grades distinguish very hard
to see inclusions either on the upper or lower part of the diamond.
3.
VS (Very Slightly Included)
Diamonds
has minor inclusions seen under a 10x magnification and classified into two:
VS1 and VS2. Normally, VS1 graded diamonds has very hard to see inclusions.
4.
SI (Slightly Included)
A
grade of a diamond wherein inclusions are very noticeable when seen under a 10x
magnification. It can be in two forms; SI1 and SI2.
5.
I (Included)
Those
are the diamonds that its inclusions are clearly visible.
Diamonds with perfect clarity (no
imperfections seen in a 10x magnification) gets the higher price value but not often
sold due to their price. Diamonds with most visible inclusions and blemishes
graded as common stones.
