The clarity of a diamond is what ultimately makes it unique as no two diamonds have the same markings or inclusions in the same area. The degree in which they are visible is what determines their value, for example a diamond which has no inclusions is rare and will be reflected in the price.
The clarity grade is determined by several factors including:
- The size of inclusions
- How many inclusions
- The positioning of the inclusions - inclusions found under the table can affect clarity grade more so than inclusions found under the side facets
- The visibility of the inclusions - the darker the inclusions the less favourably the grade will be
The degree of inclusions and the universal method of calculating a diamond’s clarity can be seen in the diagram below. Most inclusions are not visible to the naked eye however under 10x magnification they become apparent.
When purchasing your diamond you should consider the colour and clarity together. A diamond graded D-F would be best if it had a clarity grade of VS2 or higher whereas a diamond in the G-I range is well suited to clarity grades of SI.
