When talking about diamonds, you’ll often hear mention of The 4Cs:
- Color
- Cut
- Clarity
- Carat
And when speaking about inclusions, we are referring to the clarity of a diamond.
What Are Inclusions In Diamonds?
Simply put, inclusions are imperfections within a diamond. Clarity refers to the presence, or absence, of these inclusions.
Some refer to inclusions as a diamond’s birthmark.
Does Clarity Affect The Value Of A Diamond?
Inclusions are part of determining the value of a diamond. The fewer inclusions, the more valuable a diamond!
Diamonds with no inclusions at all are actually quite rare. Almost all diamonds have one or more inclusions.
This is where the saying “clarity equals rarity” comes from!
Are all inclusions On The Inside Of A Diamond?
Yes, all inclusions are internal. That’s not to say that diamonds don’t have imperfections on their surface, though. When a diamond has a surface flaw, it is called a “blemish.”
Types Of Inclusions
There are many different types of inclusions. The two most common are “pinpoints” and “feathers.”
- Pinpoints: These look like freckles or dots
- Feathers: These look like tiny cracks
Why Do Diamonds Have Inclusions
While some think inclusions happen during the diamond cutting process, this isn’t true.
Inclusions happen naturally as a diamond is undergoing its process of changing from carbon to a precious stone.
How Is Diamond Clarity Graded?
Like all of the Cs, there is a classification, or grading, system to easily identify where your diamond is on the clarity scale.
(Tip: Almost all jewelers use a special 10x magnifier, called a “loupe,” to inspect diamonds.)
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Clarity Scale:
- Flawless (FL) No inclusions and no blemishes visible under 10x magnification
- Internally Flawless (IF) No inclusions visible under 10x magnification
- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2) Inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification
- Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) Inclusions are observed with effort under 10x magnification but can be characterized as minor
- Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification
- Included (I1, I2, and I3) Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification which may affect transparency and brilliance
Can Inclusions Get Worse Over Time?
While you can’t get rid of a diamond’s internal flaw, the reassuring news is that it won’t get worse either.
So there you have it! Nearly everything you’ve ever wanted to know about diamond inclusions. If you’d like to get your diamond looked at, stop by or call Casa D’Oro today. Our associates will be more than happy to answer any and all of your questions!
