Let’s have a peak at the grading of diamonds – the real deal about clarity!
Today I’m going to have a look at one of the “4 C’s” of diamonds. In case you don’t know, diamonds are graded in 4 main categories – cut, color, carat and clarity. Today I want to take a close look at the last one – clarity.
The clarity grading scale goes from IF (the best) down to I3 (the worst). In total, there are ten different categories that a diamond can be given.
Clarity looks at how many “inclusions” that are found in the diamond. Basically, inclusions are small blemishes or imperfections. These form naturally when the rock is forming in the earth and inclusions are found in almost all diamonds.
When grading the diamond, a gemologist inspects the diamond under magnification to look at the inclusions that are present. The grading is then submitted based on how many inclusions, and also how apparent or big they are.
As an example, a diamond that is given an IF grading has no inclusions at all. This is extremely rare, and as you can imagine, this type of diamond carries a huge bump in price.
A diamond graded VS2 will have “very slight” inclusions – these will only be noticeable when viewed under a microscope and aren’t noticeable with your naked eye. These diamonds sell for a lot less that an IF graded diamond.
It’s important to understand the different ways diamonds are graded. Grab a diamond ring buying guide - you will be pleased you did in the end and will make it possible to save some huge cash on your purchase. It can be the difference between finding an affordable engagement ring instead of overpaying and making your jeweler richer.