All diamonds are graded for Clarity; this is another component that makes up the 4C’s which determines each diamonds value (price). Clarity is a diamonds freedom from clarity characteristics, which are classified in two parts –Inclusions and Blemishes.
Inclusions are enclosed within a diamond, or they extend into the diamond from its surface. Blemishes are confined to the diamonds surface. Inclusions generally have more influence on a diamonds clarity grade than blemishes.
The clarity characteristics found in a diamond make it unique. It is very unlikely that two diamonds would have the same clarity characteristics in exactly the same position.
When grading diamonds, a clarity grading scale is used. The scale provides a universal method for describing a diamonds clarity. The scale consists of 11 clarity grades.
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Clarity Scale |
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Flawless |
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Internally |
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Flawless |
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Very very slightly included |
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VVS1 |
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VVS2 |
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Very slightly included |
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VS1 |
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VS2 |
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Slightly included |
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SI1 |
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SI2 |
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I1 |
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I2 |
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I3 |
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Diamonds form under tremendous heat and pressure; it is extremely rare to find a diamond that does not contain any internal and external clarity characteristics. Clarity characteristics are caused by the diamonds formation and help Gemologists separate natural diamonds from synthetics and simulants, and identify individual stones.