Beards Jewellers Diamond Clarity Engagement Rings Cheltenham

22.04.2024 By The Online Editor

Diamond Clarity Demystified: Finding Beauty in Imperfection

One quick glance at a diamond clarity chart can be dizzying, the sheer number of potential flaws and imperfections could trigger some serious anxiety. Despite this, it seems like everyone from A-list celebrities to your next-door neighbor is flaunting these supposedly flawless gemstones. However, here's the truth: true flawlessness is exceedingly rare, with less than 0.5% of diamonds meeting the criteria. And to be honest, it's probably not worth the hefty price tag. Why, you ask? Well, buying a flawless diamond is akin to paying top dollar for something you'll never even notice. Allow us to elucidate.

What is Clarity?

Firstly it is important to know that clarity tends to be the most misinterpreted aspect of the four Cs. The confusion largely stems from the term "flawless," which carries a lot of negative connotations in the diamond market. It implies that anything not labeled as "flawless" must inherently be flawed. Naturally, people want their symbol of love to be perfect. However, diamonds without the "flawless" label are not flawed at all—they're stunning! Plus, unless you possess superhuman abilities, applying hand cream while wearing your diamond rings will likely overshadow any clarity grade concerns regarding its sparkle.

Beards Jewellers Diamond Clarity Engagement Rings Cheltenham Diamonds

Put plainly, diamonds with minimal characteristics receive top clarity grades, along with hefty price tags. Gemologists evaluate diamond clarity by scrutinizing the quantity, size, relief, nature, and location of internal characteristics (inclusions) and surface characteristics (blemishes). This examination is conducted under intense 10x magnification. They also assess how these features impact the stone's overall appearance, which often turns out to be minimal.

Eye-Clean

Although it might still feel overwhelming, it's crucial to recognize that diamonds, especially the ones we wear, are relatively small objects. Consequently, their clarity features are exceedingly tiny. In reality, inclusions don't resemble a crack on a windshield but are more akin to a speck of dust. You might notice it if you squint intensely and at the right angle, but it won't catch your eye at a glance. Even in lower clarity grades, these features are usually very hard to identify with the naked eye. In the industry, we refer to this as an eye-clean diamond, which we typically recommend for those seeking a clear stone and have some extra cash to spare.

In the world of diamond clarity grades and pricing, flawless and internally flawless stones demand a hefty premium. However, the reality is that you won't discern the difference between those and an eye-clean stone like a VS2 or SI1 grade. Additionally, a diamond that is eye-clean but less clear will come at a considerably lower cost. While you might know the disparity, rest assured, your wallet will too. Our goal is to ensure you maximize the value of your investment. Here's a breakdown of each grade.

Flawless to Near-Flawless Breakdown

IF (Internally Flawless)

Almost flawless, an IF diamond exhibits no inclusions discernible under 10x magnification but might feature tiny blemishes restricted to its surface. These imperfections remain entirely invisible to the naked eye and could be minor surface marks from polishing or natural grain lines from the crystal structure. Importantly, they are solely superficial and only detectable under magnification by a trained observer.

VVS1-VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included)

Though the inclusions in these grades are internal, they are incredibly tiny, making them exceedingly challenging (VVS1) or very challenging (VVS2) for even a skilled gemologist to spot under 10x magnification. Believe us, we've scoured for them tirelessly. They're simply imperceptible to the naked eye. In terms of availability, diamonds in the VVS grade remain quite scarce, with a corresponding high price tag.

VS1-VS2 (Very Slightly Included)

Let's be completely transparent—this grade offers the best combination of eye cleanliness and affordability. These inclusions will be challenging (VS1) or moderately easy (VS2) for a trained gemologist to spot under 10x magnification. However, in the grand scheme, they're still considered minor.

Included to Salt & Pepper

SI1-SI2 (Slightly Included)

For those seeking a wallet-friendly choice, the SI clarity range is worth considering. These diamonds might still be eye-clean (meaning they're not visible to the naked eye for most people), but inclusions will be easy (SI1) or very easy (SI2) to see under 10x magnification.

I1 (Included)

The "included" grades range from I1 to I3 and feature noticeable inclusions under 10x magnification. We don't recommend anything below an I1 for fine jewelry because that's the lowest grade where inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. In these grades, the inclusions could affect the diamond's transparency or brilliance, depending on their characteristics.

Salt and pepper

Now, for a bold choice, consider exploring salt and pepper diamonds for a distinct aesthetic. These diamonds, boasting shades resembling metallic gray, proudly display diamond inclusions. Yes, you'll witness all those fascinating characteristics, obtaining a remarkably unique gemstone in return. We do not traditionally use salt & peper diamonds for our jewellery, but our bespoke team have no creative limitations.

Common Inclusions in Mined Diamonds

It's essential to recognize that not all inclusions are alike, and some are much less noticable than others.

Feathers
These often appear white and feathery, resembling cracks in the stone, visible from specific angles, akin to cracked glass.

Twinning Wisps
Similar to streaks of cotton candy, these occur during diamond growth, resulting from changes in the crystal pattern, often presenting as pinpoints, clouds, or crystals.

Crystals
These are microscopic mineral crystals trapped within a diamond, which could even include another diamond.

While some may sound alarming, they're fascinating once understood. Gemologists delight in exploring these under a microscope, as they can help identify your diamond uniquely among others, like spotting it in a lineup

Common Inclusions in Lab Grown Diamonds

Pinpoints
These are the smallest crystals in the world, akin to diamonds themselves, barely discernible even under magnification.

Needles
They're elongated crystals, resembling stretched-out pinpoints.

Clouds
This refers to multiple pinpoints clustered together, creating a microscopic cloud-like formation.

Diamond Maps

Consider GIA clarity plots as miniature maps detailing your diamond's unique features, typically included in grading certificates for diamonds .50-carats or larger. These diagrams serve as a visual fingerprint, indicating the number, type, size relative to the diamond, and location of characteristics.

These plots usually present both top-down and bottom-up views of the diamond, often using different colors to distinguish between internal (red) and surface-reaching (green) characteristics. If a full diagram isn't provided, your diamond's grading certificate should still list the types of characteristics present, aiding in identification.

Flawless or Salt & Pepper, Your Choice

If you absolutely insist on having a flawless diamond, then go ahead! But in our view, clarity shouldn't be your top priority. Opt for cut, color, and carat instead—they're more visible aspects and offer better value for money. If you're considering lower clarity grades or feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of information and choices out there, don't hesitate to contact our team. We can assist you in finding the ideal eye-clean stone within your budget.

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