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.
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