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Clarity refers to the cleanness or purity of the
diamond. The clarity rating depends on number, size,
nature, and location of the internal (inclusions) and
external (blemishes) imperfections. Less imperfection
gives a better rating.
Clarity Grade are listed as FL (Flawless) all the way
down to I4 (Inclusions).
The following chart shows the grading system with
examples for each.
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Clarity Chart |
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FL - Flawless |
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Shows no inclusions or blemishes of any sort
under 10X magnification when observed by an
experienced grader. |
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IF - Internally
Flawless |
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Has no inclusions when examined by an
experienced grader using 10X magnification,
but will have some minor blemishes.
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VVS-1 and VVS-2 - Very, Very Slightly
Included |
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Contains minute inclusions that are
difficult even for experienced graders to
under 10X magnification. |
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VS-1 and VS-2 - Very
Slightly Included |
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Contains minute inclusions such as small
crystals, clouds or feathers when observed with
effort under 10X magnification. |
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SI-1 and SI-2 - Slightly Included |
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Contains inclusions (clouds, included crystals,
knots, cavities and feathers) that are
noticeable to an experienced grader under 10X
magnification. |
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I-1, I-2, I-3 and I-4 -
Included |
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Contains inclusions (possible large feathers or
large included crystals) that are obvious
without magnification and may affect
transparency and brilliance. |
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Be aware though that there are
methods of enhancing a diamonds appearance. These are
laser drilling and fracture filling.
JewelryOction.com does not sell laser drilled or
fracture filled diamonds. We have included it in our
Diamond Class for reference and to teach you how to spot
these enhancements. Reputable jeweler will
disclose if a diamond they are selling has been
enhanced, but there are many dishonest jewelers out
there and with this little bit of knowledge, you will
learn how to spot them.
Laser
Drilling
Laser drilling is a process where
a hole is drilled into the diamond, usually through the
side, and carbon spots are removed. This is a permanent
enhancement that will not be affected by cleaning or
heat from setting repairs. Laser drilling can be spotted
by looking for tiny lines that look like jet trails
within the diamond. A newer type of laser drilling which
is harder to detect creates cracks around inclusions
near a diamond's surface. These imperfections are then
removed leaving marks that look like natural flaws.
Fracture Filling
Fracture filling involves having
cracks within the diamond filled with a clear substance.
The cracks will not totally disappear, but they will be
less noticeable. This is a not a permanent enhancement
and will degrade with heat, cleaning and sunlight over
time. A telltale sign that a diamond has been fracture
filled is by looking at it through a 10x loupe. You will
see areas of color that follow the contours of the
fracture. Another sign is a group of bubbles trapped
within the diamond. These bubbles may make the
diamond look cloudy.
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