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Every diamond
is unique and possesses it's own individual natural characteristics referred
to as inclusions and described as "nature's fingerprints." Clarity is
determined by the degree to which a diamond is free of these natural inclusions.
The fewer the natural inclusions, the higher the grade and the greater
the value of the stone. Most diamonds contain some inclusions (visible
only through a 10x magnifying loupe). The number, size, position, nature
and color of the inclusions determine the clarity of the diamond. Major
inclusions can interfere with the path of light which travels through
a diamond, diminishing it's sparkle and brilliance.
| Clarity
Grading Scale |
| FL-IF |
No inclusions
visible (by an expert) under 10x magnification. FL=Flawless, IF=Internally
Flawless |
| VVS1-VVS2 |
Minute
- extremely difficult to find under 10x. VVS=Very, Very Slightly Included |
| VS1-VS2 |
Minor -
difficult to find under 10x. VS=Very Slightly Included |
| SI1-SI2 |
Noticeable
- relatively easy to find under 10x. SI=Slightly Included |
| I1-I2-I3 |
Obvious
under 10x - just visible to the naked eye. I=Imperfect |
Next - Color
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