2.  Choose a Setting >>
1.  Choose a Diamond >>
3.  Proposal Ideas >>
     Choosing a Diamond
      Clarity Explained
Clarity. A key factor in determining a diamond's value, clarity may also be used to map a diamond as no two diamonds are identical.  Clarity refers to the internal features (inclusions) and surface irregularities (blemishes) of a diamond.  Both of these distinguishable features together are called clarity characteristics. A clarity grade is determined by the relative absence of clarity characteristics.

The more blemishes or inclusions a diamond has, the less brilliance it will have.  Blemishes include scratches and nicks on a diamond's surface.  Inclusions are on the inside (some might break the surface of the stone, but they are still considered inclusions).

Sometimes clusters or feathers of diamond or mineral crystals are trapped inside a diamond when it forms. Depending on where they're located, they might still be there after the stone has been cut and polished.  These flaws may be "lessened" with new technology that enhances the diamonds clarity.  However, the flaw is still visible to a jeweler.

While some may want a flawless or "perfect" diamond, there are benefits to having blemishes or inclusions.  First, they help gemologists separate diamond from lab-created diamond simulants. It's easier to tell the difference with included diamonds than with flawless ones.  Second, because no two diamonds have exactly the same inclusions, they can help identify individual stones.  Diamonds can be "mapped" for identification.

Like the color scale, the clarity grading system used by the GIA was developed because jewelers were using terms that could be easily misinterpreted, such as "loupe clean," or "piqué." Today, if you buy a diamond outside the United States, the jeweler will most likely use terms like VVS1 or SI2, even if his or her language is Spanish or French instead of English.

Like the rest of the Four Cs, clarity's influence on value is directly related to the concept of rarity. Flawless diamonds are very rare.  In fact, it is possible to spend a lifetime in the jewelry industry without ever seeing one.  They command top prices.

At the other end of the scale are diamonds with inclusions that can easily be seen by the unaided eye. Between the two extremes are diamonds with inclusions visible only under 10X magnification. Some are difficult to see even then; others relatively easy. Stones in the middle range make up the bulk of the retail market.

GIA Clarity Scale

(FL) FLAWLESS
Shows no inclusions or blemishes of any sort under 10X magnification when observed by an experienced grader.

(IF) INTERNALLY FLAWLESS
Has no inclusions when examined by an experienced grader using 10X magnification, but will have some minor blemishes.

(VVS1 and VVS2) VERY VERY SLIGHTLY INCLUDED
Contains minute inclusions that are difficult even for experienced graders to see under 10X magnification.

(VS1 and VS2) VERY SLIGHTLY INCLUDED

Contains minute inclusions such as small crystals, clouds, or feathers when observed with effort under 10X magnification.

(SI1 and SI2) SLIGHTLY INCLUDED
Contains inclusions (clouds, included crystals, knots, cavities, and feathers) that are noticeable to an experienced grader under 10X magnification.

(I1, I2, I3) INCLUDED

Contains inclusions (possibly large feathers or large included crystals) that are obvious under 10X magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance.

Click to Read about Color >>


Click to Read about Cut >>


Click to Read about Carat >>
Round
Oval
Marquise
Triangle
Princess
Heart
Pear
Radiant
We are upgrading online diamond database.  If you are looking for a diamond, please contact us via email sales@generousgems.com or phone 419.734.4483 as we are happy to assist you until our database is updated.


We do carry diamonds in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors.  From near colorless to the fancy pinks, blues and yellows.  Please let us know if you have a special request.  We also create custom jewelry.
Tapered Baguette
Straight Baguette
Emerald
Choose a Diamond >>     Color >>      Cut >>    Clarity >>   Carat >>
The information contained in this site is copyright protected.  It may not be used without prior written consent from Generous Gems or its partner companies.  The designs in this site are also trademark protected.  Under trademark law designs that come close to, or are deliberate imitations to or similiarities of the use and design of our designs and images infringes on trademark law and may be prosecuted in court.  LBK Limited, LLC.
RARE
Pink Diamonds
Free with every
order over $250
Insured Shipping
Ring Sizing

and upon request
Design Consultation
Gift Wrapping
Purchase Appraisal
Official PayPal Seal
Gem of the Month
Featured Birthstone
New
Diamond Styles
Gold Catalog
Tanzanite Jewelry
Click Here
Generous Gems
Exclusive Custom Designs Click Here
Star Inspired
Jewelry
Hot New Styles!
Featured
Awareness Ribbon
Click to View
Nautical Items
Beachwear
Sealife and More
About Generous Gems          Customer Service           Monthly Specials        HOT Items
Find What You Are Looking For
Right Hand Rings
1-888-724-4483 Call Toll-Free or Shop Online
Home Page

Contest

Ribbon Jewelry

Diamond Jewelry

Wedding/Anniversary Rings

Platinum

Gemstone Jewelry

Moissanite

Charm Catalog

Gold Catalog

Silver Catalog

Watches

Join Our Newsletter

Policies

Care for Your Gems

Additional Payment Options
Charming Charms
                 
**pictures enlarged for detail**