Clarity
Clarity is based on the number, size, type, color, and location of inclusions. Inclusions can be call birthmarks, but they are not flaws.
Inclusions:
· Feather is a separations (crack) against the grain.
· Cleave is a separations with the grain.
· Pinpoints are white dots inside stone. These are crystals going with the grain.
· Clouds are a cluster of pinpoints.
· Carbon Spots are crystals (diamonds or garnets) going against the grain. They will be black.
· Gas Spots: Clear pockets inside stone.
· Blemish is on the surface of the stone and not inside.
· It is better for inclusions to be on the outer part of stone than in the middle.
IF: Internal Flawless has no internal inclusions only small blemish like an extra facet.
VVS1: Has no inclusions under table and only inclusions are white or clear.
VVS2: Only difference to VVS1 are inclusions can be closer to middle.
VS1: White or colorless inclusions in bottom middle, but no crystals under the table.
VS2: Similar to VS1, but may have crystals under the table.
SI1: Inclusions are visible under 10x anywhere in stone, but not outside stone. Eye clean.
SI2: Inclusions very visible under 10x, but not to naked eye when mounted.
I1: Inclusions are visible by naked eye, but none break surface.
I2: Inclusions are very visible by naked eye, but still no breaks in surface.
I3: Easy to see inclusions and has breaks in surface.
The majority of diamonds sold range between an I2 to an SI1. There are diamonds below an I3, but those diamonds are not considered a gem quality are used for industrial uses. Some diamond graders and jewelers will grade some of their stones and SI3, but in fact that is still an I1 stone.
The majority of diamonds sold range between an I2 to an SI1. There are diamonds below an I3, but those diamonds are not considered a gem quality are used for industrial uses. Some diamond graders and jewelers will grade some of their stones and SI3, but in fact that is still an I1 stone.
