Diamonds Clarity

Within the 4C’s, we have the Clarity of a diamond. It refers to the irregularities found in the diamond or on its surface. Experts will identify them by their type, size and location.

What are these irregularities? Like you probably already know, diamonds are natural. Their creation is produce when carbon, high temperature and high pressure are mixed together. During this complicated process, some characteristics (irregularities) appear inside the rough diamond. It is important for you to know that these are not related to the diamonds quality. These irregularities are defined in two different types: Inclusions and Blemishes. Inclusions are for the ones found inside the diamond and Blemishes are external.

Following the GIA grading, there are 16 different types of inclusions. For example, while a diamond is created, it is common to have other elements that are mixed during the process. These elements form crystals or minerals inside the diamond and the can be different colors! We also have inclusions that are called grain centers. They are usually created by a crystal distortion and their color is most likely white or black. From these two examples, we add many other types like; feather, cloud, chip, etc.

Blemishes are found on the different facets of the diamond. Some are natural and produced while the diamond’s formation. Grain blemishes are crystals created from a crystal distortion. We also have “Natural” blemishes which appear when a portion of the rough diamond is not cut and kept on a diamond’s surface. In majority, blemishes are the result of a human mistake. This said, it could be either from a bad polishing or cutting of the expert. In totality, there are 11 types of blemishes defined by GIA.

How are blemishes or inclusions identified? Experts use microscopes or loupes to establish the diamond’s rarity. They will characterise each irregularities with its colour, size and location. With today’s technology, it is possible to analyse a diamond with high definition. To regulate and limit the evaluation of a diamond’s clarity, GIA created a scale and it is now used worldwide.

This scale is used to know the rarity of a diamond. All the different categories are measured with a microscope or a loupe with a x10 magnification. Clarity is of course used to evaluate the value of a diamond, but also to identify it. Indeed, we can now recognize a diamond by its characteristics and its singular construction. In some cases, an inclusion can have an original shape, like a heart.

Finally, everyone has their own preferences when it comes to find the perfect diamond. Our experts will follow your tastes and budget during the process. It is important to know that, there is a high price difference in-between the categories. At the Langlois Jewelry, we have diamonds from I1 to IF. We know it might be hard to select the clarity you desire since it is very technical. Make sure you let us be part of your decision since our experts will be able to assist you without any problems!