Diamond Clarity

What is Diamond Clarity?

Diamond clarity is the measure of inclusions found in and on the outside of a diamond.  The fewer the inclusions, the higher the price will be.  Inclusions may be another diamond crystal, foreign material, or structural imperfections such as tiny cracks that can appear cloudy or whitish, and scratches.  Carbon effects diamond clarity because they are very small black dots, which may or may not be visible without magnification. Most inclusions present in diamonds do not affect the diamonds wear ability or structural integrity. However, some inclusions can affect a diamond’s ability to reflect light.

How is Diamond Clarity Determined? 

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and other organizations have developed a grading system that is used to grade clarity based on 10x magnification and a trained eye.

Diamonds are graded from Flawless to Imperfect using the scale illustrated below. 

CLARITY GRADING SCALE