How Do Inclusions and Blemishes Impact Diamond Clarity?

When estimating the value of a diamond, one can argue that clarity is just as important as any of the other four C’s. Being overwhelmed when first starting out shopping for diamonds is not uncommon, especially when analyzing diamond clarity grade presented by a jeweler. However, after doing some research on the factors that determine the value of a diamond, you will soon realize that understanding how diamonds are grade is not so complicated.

The two aspects of diamond clarity grading include inclusions and blemishes. One example of an inclusion is laser lines, which result from diamond enhancement procedures. When a diamond has a scratch or abrasion on the surface, this is what’s known as a blemish.

Diamond Inclusions

An evaluation of a diamond’s clarity consists of factoring in eight different types of inclusions. An inclusion generally is located within the diamond and is thought of as a flaw. Therefore, the diamond will not be graded as high and not be worth as much.

Sometimes an inclusion results from the abnormal growth of a diamond’s crystals. Inclusions will sometimes take the appearance of slight lines and streaks on diamonds. Inclusions can also be caused by structural flaws, such as tiny cracks in the diamond.

Inclusions negatively affect the beauty and brilliance of a diamond because they don’t allow light to freely pass through. Also, inclusions affect the diamond’s ability to scatter and transmit light. Inclusions have been referred to as “nature’s fingerprints” and are natural imperfections, but are not able to be seen by the naked eye.

Examples of inclusions include minerals or crystals imbedded in a diamond. These could also be smaller diamonds that got stuck inside the larger diamond while the crystal was forming.

A few other kinds of inclusions include:

•    Feathers
•    Knots
•    Cavities
•    Internal graining

Diamond Blemishes

The amount of blemishes a diamond has is another key factor used in figuring out a clarity grade. Blemishes, as opposed to inclusions, are imperfections that appear on the outside surface of the diamond. Frequently, a blemish is caused by natural occurrences. Though, polishing and cutting the diamond can also cause blemishes.

Because blemishes can not be seen very easily with the naked eye, they won’t negatively impact the appearance of a diamond much. Therefore, if you are more of a casual buyer and don’t care about owning a perfect diamond, this plays to your advantage. Diamonds with blemishes will get a lower clarity grade, which will make them more affordable for you while still getting a beautiful diamond.

Some examples of blemishes include:

•    Grain boundries
•    Scratches
•    Pits
•    Nicks

An important point to remember when searching for diamond jewelry or a diamond is to buy from a jeweler or company that you can trust. A qualified jeweler will assist you in understanding a diamond clarity chart even more and selecting the diamond you want.

See Also: Diamond Clarity and Color