What is the Most Desirable Clarity for a Diamond?

Have you ever heard of the four "C's" used to describe a diamond? These are cut, color, clarity, and carat. Which of these do you think is the most important in terms of price and quality? While there is no doubt that the weight (carat) of the stone is indeed, critical, we need to keep in mind that clarity is one of the most overlooked variables. Let's take a closer look at the role of clarity when grading a diamond.

What Defines the Clarity of a Diamond?

Diamonds are naturally formed miles beneath the surface of the earth over millions of years. During the formation process, it is not uncommon for other materials to become embedded within their matrix. These are known as "inclusions" by industry experts. The main takeaway point is that such flaws will have an impact upon how the diamond reflects light; sometimes causing it to appear dull or "flat". As stones with an extremely high clarity are rare, it only stands to reason that they are much more valuable.

A Quick Look at the Official Clarity Grades
It is important that a diamond is certified by either the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or the AGS (American Gem Society). As their findings are highly respected, obtaining a rating in terms of clarity is crucial before making a purchase. You can see their grading system below:

F: Flawless.
IF: Internally flawless (no inclusions are visible under 10 times magnification).
VVS1 and VVS2 (Very very slightly included). Inclusions are difficult to find under magnification.
VS1 and VS2: Inclusions are visible under magnification but cannot be seen with the naked eye.
SI1 and SI2: Inclusions can be seen with a microscope and may be visible to the naked eye.
I1, I2 and I3: Inclusions are visible to the naked eye to varying degrees (I3 being the most noticeable).

You can take a look at this informative resource on Pricescope diamond and jewelry forum to learn more about clarity of the diamond if you are after an independent source.

How Do Experts Determine Clarity?

There are a handful of variables that professionals will examine. For example, how many inclusions are present and what are their sizes? Their shapes can have an impact (pinpoints as opposed to clouds) as well as how much light they tend to reflect. Finally, their location will affect the rating. However, most laboratories will pay particular attention to the size of the flaw during the grading process.

Putting it All Together

To put it simply, it is often better to possess a small diamond with a high degree of clarity as opposed to a larger carat size with numerous flaws. This is why some relatively diminutive diamonds can be priced quite high. When taken into account alongside cut, color, and carat, clarity is a key component.
If you are hoping to purchase a truly scintillating stone, be sure to keep the information above in mind. In terms of diamonds, beauty is much more than may initially meet the eye!

MissLJBeauty