It can be exciting to select the perfect diamond, and knowing how clarity affects value and brilliance can help. Many buyers are uncertain about how inclusions, blemishes, and clarity grades impact the longevity of a beautiful diamond. It is natural to feel a bit uncertain with so many technical terms and grading scales to consider.
However, understanding these elements can be straightforward and enjoyable. Our goal is to make this process easier for you, providing all the information you need to choose a diamond that perfectly reflects your taste and meets your expectations.
Mark Broumand prioritizes education and transparency, guiding you through the diamond clarity grading system with empathy and expertise. We know that purchasing a diamond is not just a financial investment but also an emotional one.
That is why we provide clear explanations and personalized advice, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your desires and budget. Whether you are looking for a flawless diamond or gem with clarity characteristics that add to its charm, we are here to support you in finding the perfect stone that embodies both beauty and significance.
Understanding the Diamond Clarity Scale
What is Diamond Clarity?
Diamond clarity refers to the presence or absence of internal inclusions and external blemishes in a diamond. These imperfections can range from natural imperfections like white inclusions or dark inclusions to external imperfections such as polish lines. The fewer and less visible these flaws are, the higher the clarity grade and, typically, the value of the diamond. A eye clean diamond is often more desirable, this means there are no visible imperfections to the naked eye.
The Importance of Clarity in Diamond Selection
Clarity is one of the "Four Cs" that significantly influences a diamond's overall visual appearance and value. While some inclusions may be so small that they are only visible under magnification, others, like noticeable inclusions or obvious inclusions, can affect the diamond's brilliance and durability.
Understanding how different clarity ranges impact the look and longevity of your diamond can help you make a choice that balances beauty, budget, and personal preference.
Common Diamond Clarity Grades
Flawless and Internally Flawless (FL and IF)
Diamonds that are graded as Flawless (FL) or Internally Flawless (IF) are rare and highly sought after. FL diamonds have no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification, while IF diamonds have no internal inclusions but may have minor surface blemishes. These diamonds represent the pinnacle of clarity, often commanding premium prices due to their exceptional purity.
Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)
VVS diamonds contain minor inclusions that are extremely difficult to detect even under 10x magnification. These inclusions do not impact the diamond's brilliance or overall visual appearance, making VVS1 and VVS2 grades a popular choice for those seeking a near-flawless look without the cost of an FL or IF diamond.
Very Slightly Included (VS1 & VS2):
Diamonds in the VS range contain inclusions that are small but can be detected under 10x magnification or higher. VS1 diamonds have fewer or less noticeable inclusions compared to VS2, but both grades offer excellent clarity for the naked eye. VS diamonds are popular for their balance of quality and value, providing a visually clean appearance without the premium price tag of higher grades. Mark Broumand specializes in sourcing only the best diamonds in this range and ensures that every diamond will be eye-clean.
Slightly Included (SI1 & SI2):
SI diamonds have inclusions that are more easily seen under magnification and, in some cases, may be visible without magnification, especially for SI2. However, these inclusions often do not significantly impact the diamond's beauty to the casual observer. SI1 diamonds tend to be a better choice for those seeking a larger carat weight or more intricate design, as they offer affordability while still maintaining sparkle and brilliance.
Types of Inclusions and Their Impact
Size of Inclusions
The size of inclusions within a diamond is one of the most critical factors in determining its clarity grade. Larger diamonds with visible inclusions can be more noticeable and may affect the diamond's brilliance. However, smaller inclusions that are well-hidden can have minimal impact on the stone's visual appearance.
Location of Inclusions
The position of inclusions within a diamond also plays a significant role in clarity grading. Visible flaws located directly under the table (the top facet) are more visible and can reduce the diamond's overall clarity grade. In contrast, inclusions near the girdle or other less visible areas may have a negligible effect on the diamond's appearance.
Why Clarity Matters: Making an Informed Decision
Balancing Clarity with Other Factors
While clarity is essential, it is just one aspect of a diamond's overall quality. It's important to balance clarity with other factors like cut, diamond color, and carat weight to find a quality diamond that meets your aesthetic and financial goals. A well polished diamond with slightly lower clarity but excellent cut may offer more brilliance and value than a higher-clarity diamond with a poor cut.
Clarity and Long-Term Value
Investing in a diamond with higher clarity can enhance its long-term value, particularly for larger stones where inclusions are more visible. However, it is also possible to find beautiful loose diamonds with lower clarity grades that offer excellent value for money, especially if the inclusions are not noticeable to the naked eye.
Clarity Revealed: The True Beauty Within Mark Broumand’s Diamonds
Discover the purity and brilliance that lies at the heart of every diamond. Diamond clarity is the key to unlocking a gem’s inner light, revealing a world of flawless beauty. From nearly perfect stones to those with SI2 diamonds without visible imperfections, our collection offers diamond qualities that sparkle with unmatched clarity.
Choose a diamond that radiates with pure, unblemished beauty—an exquisite reflection of your most cherished moments. Explore our range of brilliant cut diamonds, step cut diamonds, and various diamond shapes, and find your perfect clarity today. Let your diamond shine in all its splendor.
