Wednesday, November 16, 2011

The 4C's: Diamond Clarity

CLARITYDiamonds that are absolutely clear are the most sought-after and therefore the most expensive. But many diamonds have inclusions — scratches, trace minerals or other tiny characteristics that can detract from the pure beauty of the diamond. The GIA and EGL use a detailed system of rules and standards to summarize the number, location, size, and type of inclusions present in a diamond.


Diamond ClarityFL, IF Flawless, Internally Flawless: No internal or external flaws. Internally Flawless: No internal flaws. Very rare and beautiful diamonds. VVS1, VVS2 Very, Very Slightly Included: Extremely difficult to see inclusions under 10x magnification. An excellent quality diamond. VS1, VS2 Very Slightly Included: Inclusions are not typically visible to the unaided eye. Less expensive than the VVS1 or VVS2 grades. SI1, SI2 Slightly Included: Inclusions are visible under 10x magnification. I1, I2, I3 Included: Will be visible to the unaided eye.

What Clarity is best?
We recommend that you select an "eye-clean" diamond — one that has no inclusions visible to the unaided eye. An excellent value, diamonds of this clarity are much less expensive than IF- or FL-grade diamonds and typically do not contain visible inclusions that detract from the beauty of the diamond. If you're considering an SI grade diamond, call Diamonds by Eyal to speak to a diamond and jewelry expert who will review the diamond to ensure the quality and the inclusions. But, if you'd rather not compromise on clarity yet are budget conscious, Diamonds by Eyal will find the diamond for you.






                                           







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