Cut
Color
Clarity
Carat
:: Clarity ::



           Almost all diamonds contain very tiny natural birthmarks known as inclusions. To determine a diamond's clarity, an expert views it under 10 power magnifications. In addition to internal inclusions, surface irregularities are referred to as blemishes. These two categories of imperfections-inclusions (internal) and blemishes (external)-make up clarity.

           The fewer the imperfections, the rarer and more valuable the diamond. Many inclusions are not discernable to the naked eye and require magnification to become apparent. A laboratory-certified clarity rating of SI2 represents the point at which inclusions are technically not apparent to the average naked eye.

           Contrary to popular belief, higher clarity does not always mean more beautiful. If the inclusions are not visible to the naked eye, a higher clarity does not really improve the appearance of a diamond but rather the rarity and price. A higher clarity is more desirable and valuable, but knowing that you have selected the right clarity for the right reasons is most important. We recommend a clarity of SI2 or better.

           Clarity is graded using a very precise and complex method of evaluating the size, location, and visibility of inclusions. The diagrams to the right show a top view of a round diamond. The inclusions, shown in red, are an approximate sample for each clarity rating. The plotted inclusions may not be actual size for display purposes. Remember, the inclusions depicted in red are not visible to the average naked eye until the I1-I3 clarities. Below is the technical clarity scale with a description of each term.

SYMBOL

MEANING

DEFINITION

F

Flawless

Free from all inclusions and blemishes

IF

Internally Flawless

No inclusions visible at 10x magnification

WS1

Very, Very Slightly Included

Inclusions that are extremely difficult to locate at 10x

WS2

Very, Very Slightly Included

Inclusions that are very difficult to locate at 10x

VS1

Very Slightly Included

Minor inclusions that are difficult to locate at 10x

VS2

Very Slightly Included

Minor inclusions that are somewhat difficult to locate at 10x

SI1

Slightly Included

Noticeable inclusions that are easy to locate at 10x

SI2

Slightly Included

Noticeable inclusions that are very easy to locate at 10x

SI3

Slightly Included

Some inclusions may be seen with the unaided eye

I1

Included

Obvious inclusions. Somewhat easy to locate with the unaided eye

I2

Included

Obvious inclusions. Easy to locate with the unaided eye

I3

Included

Obvious inclusions. Very easy to locate with the unaided eye