Understanding Diamond Clarity
Discover what diamond clarity means, how clarity grades work, and how to choose a diamond that balances beauty and value.
Understanding Diamond Clarity
Diamond clarity is one of the important factors used to evaluate a diamond. It describes the natural characteristics inside and on the surface of a diamond.
These characteristics can include tiny internal features called inclusions and surface features called blemishes.
Most diamond clarity characteristics are very small and may not be visible to the naked eye.
Why Is Diamond Clarity Important?
Clarity can affect the appearance, rarity, and value of a diamond.
A diamond with fewer visible inclusions may appear cleaner and brighter. However, a higher clarity grade does not always mean a diamond will look better to the eye.
Look Beyond the Grade
For many customers, a diamond that looks clean to the naked eye can offer an excellent balance between beauty and value.
Diamond Clarity Grades
Diamond clarity is commonly graded from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3).
What Are Diamond Inclusions?
Inclusions are natural characteristics found inside a diamond.
Tiny Crystals
Small crystals naturally formed within the diamond.
Clouds
Groups of tiny inclusions that can appear together.
Feathers
Internal features that can resemble small feather-like patterns.
Pinpoints
Very small pinpoint-like internal characteristics.
Needles
Thin, elongated internal characteristics.
Internal Marks
Natural internal lines or marks that may occur within a diamond.
Every natural diamond can have its own unique characteristics.
What Are Diamond Blemishes?
Blemishes are characteristics found on the surface of a diamond.
- Scratches
- Polish marks
- Extra facets
- Surface pits
- Small nicks
A professional diamond grading report identifies important clarity characteristics and shows where they are located.
Eye-Clean Diamonds
An eye-clean diamond is a diamond where inclusions are not easily visible to the naked eye from a normal viewing distance.
An eye-clean diamond does not necessarily need to have the highest clarity grade.
For customers looking for good value, an eye-clean VS or SI diamond may be an attractive option depending on the shape and individual stone.
Clarity and Diamond Shape
Diamond shape can affect how visible inclusions are.
Emerald
Step-cut facets can make clarity characteristics easier to notice.
Asscher
Its geometric step-cut pattern can make inclusions more noticeable.
Brilliant Shapes
Facet patterns can sometimes help hide inclusions within the diamond.
Individual Stone
Always consider the actual diamond rather than choosing a clarity grade alone.
This is why it is helpful to consider the individual diamond rather than choosing a clarity grade alone.
How to Choose the Right Clarity
When selecting diamond clarity, consider these important factors:
Your Budget
Higher clarity grades generally cost more.
The Diamond Shape
Some shapes show inclusions more easily than others.
The Diamond's Appearance
Look for a stone that appears clean and bright.
Location of Inclusions
The position of inclusions can be just as important as the clarity grade.
The Certification
Review the grading report for the diamond's clarity information.
Natural & Lab-Grown Diamond Clarity
Both natural and lab-grown diamonds can have clarity characteristics.
At Valam Design, customers can explore a range of natural and lab-grown diamonds in different clarity grades, colors, shapes, and carat weights.
The available grading and certification depend on the individual diamond and the grading laboratory.
Find the Right Diamond at Valam Design
Choosing diamond clarity does not have to be complicated.
The best diamond is one that offers the right combination of beauty, clarity, color, cut, carat weight, and budget for you.
Choose the diamond that feels right for your style, your occasion, and your budget.
At Valam Design, we aim to make diamond shopping simple and transparent, helping you choose a diamond that fits your style and special occasion.
Discover Your Perfect Diamond
Explore Valam Design's diamond jewelry collection and find a diamond that is right for you.
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