Grading-Clarity: describes the clearness or purity of a diamond. This is determined by the number, size, nature, and location of the internal (inclusions) and external (blemishes) imperfections. Nitrogen and other elements trapped within a stone during its formation effect the ultimate color, and minerals embedded in a diamond during crystallization will influence the stone’s clarity.
These natural characteristics, called inclusions, make each stone unique; they are natures way of personalizing each diamond.
Gemologists even use these inclusions to determine a diamond's age. The fewer the inclusions, however, the more rare and precious the stone will be considered because nothing will interfere with the passage and reflection of light. The number, color, size, and position of any inclusions will specify a diamond's clarity, but most will not endanger its durability. To establish a diamond's clarity, it must be examined by a trained eye under a 10x magnification; the fewer the inclusions, the more valuable the diamond will be.
Be aware! Two methods used to enhance the clarity grade given to a diamond are laser drilling and fracture filling. Laser drilling is the process in which a laser is used to drill a tiny hole into a diamond and the black of the imperfection is then removed.
The second treatment is fracture filling. This method is not permanent and therefore not recommended.
BLEMISHES: Abrasions: tiny nicks on facet junctions or the culet; caused by wear or coming in contact with other diamonds.
Extra Facets: small facets placed to remove imperfections; not part of the cutting style. (Not to be confused with Added Facets which are added symmetrically and are part of the cutting style).
