CLARITY Clarity is a way to measure the level of tiny imperfections that exist within almost all diamonds except the very fin- est. Most imperfections within a quality diamond will re- main microscopic because you rarely look into a diamond with a microscope, but if there are too many it can affect the diamond’s apparent color rating and the way light es- capes to give the stone its brilliance. To many, a diamond’s clarity is the easiest to understand and see visually what determines the rating. Gemologists may describe these imperfections as inclusions, blemishes or clarity characteristics.
• Flawless (FL) Extraordinarily rare. No exclusions or blemishes.
• Internally Flawless (IF) – No inclusions and only minor blemishes. This level of rating is very rare.
• Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 / VVS2) – It will be very difficult to see imperfections without the help of a scope. This is an extremely high diamond quality.
• Very Slightly Included (VS1 / VS2) – Minor inclusions seen under scope.
CARAT Carat refers specifically to a diamond’s weight. A metric carat is defined as 200 milligrams. Oftentimes, one will hear diamond carat weight referred to as “points.” One carat is divided into 100 points in order to allow for very precise one hundredth decimal measurement of each carat. Oftentimes, diamond size or carat weight is an important factor in people’s final choice. If this is the case, in order to fit within a very strict budget, one may choose to find a di- amond that has a good cut, but move down on clarity and color slightly in order to find a large and “clean” stone that fits the budget. It is also worth noting that diamond prices have differences as they jump from one full carat size to the next. For example, a 2.95 carat diamond will see a signifi- cant jump in price when compared to a 3.01 carat diamond with similar grading. This is because the stone’s total value is determined based from a “per carat” value determined by its characteristics. In determining the perfect diamond, let us help you find the perfect balance as you weigh the many different char- acteristics of the diamonds you have to choose from.
• Slightly Included (SI1 / SI2) – Noticeable inclusions seen under a scope and some visible to the naked eye.
• Included (I1) – Significant inclusions visible to the na- ked eye oftentimes.
9
Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online