Diamond Guides
Explore the Ralph Karouni Bridal Guides
A Guide to Diamond Clarity and the Diamond Clarity Chart
The journey of a diamond begins with carbon atoms hidden far below the earth's surface. Subjected to immense heat and pressure, they remain deep within the earth's mantle until volcanic eruptions bring them to the surface through rare geological formations known as kimberlite pipes.
This process can result in internal characteristics called inclusions and external characteristics called blemishes, which disrupt the path of light through a diamond and diminish its brilliance. Clarity measures the number, size, position and colour of these inclusions and blemishes, and forms a core part of the 4Cs of diamond quality: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight.
What is a diamond clarity chart?
A diamond clarity chart is a visual scale used to assess and communicate the clarity characteristics of a diamond. Clarity refers to the presence of any internal inclusions or external blemishes; if present, these imperfections can affect a diamond's overall appearance. One of the most widely used clarity charts was developed by the Gemological Institute of America.
Established in 1931, the GIA is a public-benefit, non-profit institute renowned for its gemmological research. It protects consumers through analysis, education and gem grading, and sets global quality standards.
The GIA diamond clarity chart
The GIA diamond clarity chart has six categories, some of which are sub-divided, resulting in a total of eleven grades:
- Flawless (FL): No inclusions or blemishes visible under ten times magnification. These diamonds are extremely rare and represent the pinnacle of clarity.
- Internally Flawless (IF): No inclusions visible under ten times magnification.
- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): Inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see under ten times magnification.
- Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): Inclusions observed with effort under ten times magnification, but characterised as minor.
- Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): Inclusions noticeable under ten times magnification.
- Included (I1, I2 and I3): Inclusions noticeable under ten times magnification, which may affect transparency and brilliance.
To the naked eye, a VS1 and an SI2 diamond may look the same, yet they differ considerably in overall quality. This is why an expert, accurate assessment is so important.
Diamond clarity grading considerations
Several factors are taken into account during the grading process, collectively defining a diamond's clarity. The GIA clarity chart assesses each diamond on five significant aspects:
Size of inclusions and blemishes: how large or small they are. Naturally, more extensive inclusions have a greater impact on a diamond's clarity grade.
Number of inclusions and blemishes: a diamond with many small inclusions may receive a lower grade than one with fewer, larger inclusions.
Position of inclusions and blemishes: where they sit affects the path of light through the diamond. Inclusions near the centre or top are generally more impactful than those near the edges.
Nature of inclusions and blemishes: the type of flaw, such as a crystal of another mineral, a fracture, or a tiny pocket of gas or liquid. Some types affect the grade more than others.
Relief: the contrast between the inclusions or blemishes and the diamond itself. The more an inclusion stands out, the more it affects the grade.
At Ralph Karouni, everything begins with the diamond, the most precious material on earth and a symbol of love for many thousands of years. Every diamond is evaluated using the 4Cs as prescribed by the GIA, to ensure perfection at every stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the GIA diamond clarity scale come about?
The GIA developed its clarity grading scale to bring consistency to an industry that previously relied on inconsistent, subjective terms. By assessing each diamond under ten times magnification against defined categories, the scale provides a reliable, universal measure of clarity.
What causes inclusions within a diamond?
Inclusions form during a diamond's creation, deep within the earth under immense heat and pressure. They may be tiny crystals of another mineral, fractures, or pockets of gas or liquid trapped as the diamond grows.
What are Ralph Karouni's diamond clarity standards?
Ralph Karouni diamonds are exceptionally pure. Many are Flawless or display minute inclusions invisible to the naked eye, each evaluated against the 4Cs as prescribed by the GIA.
The House of Ralph Karouni
Featured
