Have you ever wondered why two diamonds that look similar at first glance can have drastically different price tags? It often comes down to something that isn't immediately visible: the clarity of the diamond. Clarity is one of the four critical factors—alongside colour, cut, and carat—that determine a diamond's quality and value, but it's perhaps the most misunderstood. The question is, what does clarity really mean, and how does it affect the beauty and worth of a diamond? Let’s find out. 

Understanding Diamond Clarity – Clarity in Diamonds Explained

When we talk about diamond clarity, we're essentially outlining the factors that determine a diamond's appeal and value. But what exactly is clarity? It's all about the imperfections—or lack thereof—found inside and on the surface of the diamond, often known as inclusions and blemishes.

Inclusions are internal. Think of them as nature's birthmarks; they form deep within the earth under intense heat and pressure when the diamond is created. Common types of inclusions are crystals of other minerals, tiny fractures (feathers), and clouds, which are clusters of extremely tiny inclusions that can appear hazy. Blemishes, on the other hand, are surface flaws like scratches and chips. These can occur naturally but are often the result of the cutting process. While blemishes can typically be polished away, inclusions are more like permanent fingerprints, uniquely identifying each gem.

But why does clarity matter? It influences how light travels through it and is scattered as sparkle—technically known as brilliance. High-clarity diamonds allow more light to pass through them, enhancing sparkle, while those with some type of inclusions or blemishes can appear dull or cloudy.

However, it's crucial to note that many of these clarity characteristics are microscopic and can't be seen with the naked eye. This is where the clarity grade comes into play—a system developed by gemmologists to help quantify how these inclusions affect the overall appearance of the diamond.

So, when you're looking at a diamond, remember that you're not just looking at a piece of mineral; you're looking at a natural work of art with tiny imperfections that lie within. This character marks its unique spot in the world, making no two diamonds exactly alike. Isn't that something quite special?

The Basics of Grading Diamond Clarity

Clarity grading is a fundamental criterion that distinguishes a remarkable gem from an ordinary one. In Australia, as in much of the world, the standards set by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) are widely adopted. Each diamond is examined under 10x magnification to identify any inclusions (internal imperfections) and blemishes (external defects. Here’s what each grading scale represents:

  1. Flawless (FL): These are the rarities in the diamond world. Under 10x magnification, flawless diamonds show no blemishes or inclusions, presenting perfection that's extremely rare and highly prized.
  2. Internally Flawless (IF): These diamonds might display minor blemishes when scrutinised by a professional, but no inclusions. They offer nearly unmatched clarity and are highly sought after.
  3. Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): Inclusions are visible when magnified, but they are generally regarded as insignificant. The difference involves the size, number, and location of the inclusions.
  4. Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): These diamonds have minuscule inclusions. The distinction revolves around their visibility, with VVS1 being slightly clearer.
  5. Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): Inclusions are more evident and may sometimes be visible to the naked eye, especially in SI2 diamonds. These are often chosen for cost and aesthetic appeal.
  6. Included (I1, I2, I3): These grades indicate obvious inclusions that are likely visible without magnification. The diamonds are more accessible but come with noticeable clarity compromises.

Factors Affecting Diamond Clarity

  1. Size of Inclusions: The size of inclusions plays a critical role in determining a diamond's clarity. Larger inclusions are more detrimental to clarity than smaller ones because they are more visible and obstruct more light as it passes through the diamond. This disruption diminishes the diamond's brilliance and overall visual appeal, making size a crucial factor in clarity assessment.
  2. Number of Inclusions: The clarity of a diamond decreases with the increase in the number of inclusions. More inclusions mean more interruptions in the path of light, which can significantly reduce the stone’s brilliance and fire. Each additional inclusion compounds light disruption, affecting how light behaves within the diamond, thus impacting its sparkle and the purity of its appearance.
  3. Location of Inclusions: Inclusions located near the centre or top of a diamond are more noticeable and detrimental to the stone's clarity compared to those positioned along its sides or bottom. Central inclusions can be especially conspicuous, directly affecting the diamond's light performance and potentially making them visible to the naked eye, which is less ideal for high-quality gems.
  4. Type of Inclusions: The type of inclusions within a diamond, such as feathers, clouds, or crystals, significantly impacts its clarity and visual appeal. Each has a different effect on the diamond's optical properties; for example, a cloud can make a diamond appear hazy, while a crystal might be seen as a small point of light. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurately assessing clarity.
  5. Colour and Relief of Inclusions: Inclusions that have a pronounced colour contrast with the diamond or are high relief can impact clarity more severely. These inclusions are much more visible and can detract from the diamond's natural beauty. Their visibility is pronounced if the inclusion's colour starkly contrasts with the crystal's transparency, drawing the eye directly to the flaw.

Misconceptions About Diamond Clarity

  1. "The higher the clarity, the better the diamond.": While higher clarity can mean a more pristine diamond, it's not the only factor in determining its aesthetic beauty or overall market value.
  2. "Lower clarity diamonds lack brilliance": Even diamonds with lower clarity grades can exhibit significant brilliance and fire, depending on their precise cut and some other critical factors.
  3. "Flawless diamonds are the best investment": Flawless diamonds are rare and expensive, but that doesn't necessarily make them the best investment. Market demand and other factors also play a role.
  4. "Inclusions are always undesirable": Some inclusions, known as 'internal features,' can be quite fascinating and can sometimes increase a diamond's complete uniqueness and character.
  5. "You can always see the inclusions": Many (internal imperfections) are microscopic and generally do not affect the diamond's physical appearance to the naked eye in any noticeable way.

Choosing the Right Clarity for Your Needs

When selecting a diamond, consider your personal standards for beauty, your budget, and what will make the diamond special for you. Here’s a step-by-step guide to choosing the right clarity:

  1. Define your budget: Higher clarity grades can increase the cost of a diamond. When setting your budget, consider how much the clarity will impact your satisfaction and the visual appearance. Investing more in higher clarity can enhance both the value and the beauty of your purchase.
  2. Consider the Size of the Diamond: In larger diamonds, inclusions are more easily visible, so opting for higher clarity might be crucial. This is particularly important if the diamond's size is such that any imperfections are more likely to be seen by the naked eye. On the other hand, a clearer, larger diamond often carries a premium but is worth the extra expense for its impressive appearance.
  3. Think about Who Will Wear It: If the diamond is for an engagement ring, you might prioritise higher clarity for everyday wear. Consider the lifestyle and preferences of the wearer; a high-clarity diamond stands out more and also withstands daily wear and tear with fewer visible imperfections.
  4. View the Diamond Yourself: Always inspect the diamond in person or request high-quality photos to see how visible any inclusions are. Observing the diamond yourself allows you to judge its clarity based on your own standards and ensures that you are comfortable with any visible imperfections.
  5. Get Expert Advice: Consult with a trusted jeweller or gemologist who can guide your decision based on your specific needs. Their expertise can be invaluable, particularly in understanding how different clarity grades might affect the diamond's appearance in various settings and lighting.

Conclusion

To conclude, whether you are looking for an investment piece or a symbol of love, clarity is a key component in that choice. If you need expert advice or wish to view a collection of high-quality diamonds, our team at Varoujan Jewellers is here to guide you through every step of the process. Connect with us today to find that perfect diamond that resonates with your heart and soul.