When it comes to diamonds, clarity is one of the most important factors to consider. A diamond’s clarity refers to the presence or absence of internal and external flaws, also known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. These flaws can affect a diamond’s appearance, as well as its durability and value. In this article, we will discuss the clarity of diamonds, including lab grown diamonds.
Diamond clarity is graded on a scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). Flawless diamonds have no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification, while Included diamonds have inclusions and blemishes visible to the naked eye. In between these two extremes are various grades, such as VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included), VS (Very Slightly Included), and SI (Slightly Included).
Inclusions can take many forms, such as crystals, feathers, and clouds. Some
inclusions are more visible than others, depending on their location and size. For example, an inclusion near the center of a diamond may be more visible than one near the edge. Inclusions can also affect a diamond’s brilliance, as they can block or scatter light as it passes through the stone.
Blemishes are external flaws on a diamond’s surface, such as scratches, pits, and chips. Like inclusions, blemishes can affect a diamond’s appearance and value.
However, blemishes are generally easier to remove or conceal than inclusions, as they are on the surface of the diamond.
One of the benefits of lab grown diamonds is that they tend to have fewer inclusions than natural diamonds. This is because lab grown diamonds are grown in a controlled environment, without the natural pressures and heat that can cause inclusions in natural diamonds. Lab grown diamonds also tend to have fewer blemishes, as they are cut and polished using modern techniques that minimize surface flaws.
However, it’s important to note that not all lab grown diamonds are created equal. Some lab grown diamonds may still have inclusions and blemishes, depending on the quality of the growth and cutting process. It’s important to purchase lab grown diamonds from a reputable source that provides detailed information about the diamond’s clarity and other characteristics.
In addition to clarity, there are other factors to consider when purchasing a diamond, such as color, carat weight, and cut. The 4Cs of diamond quality (Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight) can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a diamond.
Ultimately, the clarity of a diamond is a personal preference. Some people prefer a flawless diamond, while others don’t mind a few inclusions or blemishes as long as the overall appearance is still beautiful. Lab grown diamonds offer a more affordable and sustainable alternative to natural diamonds, with clarity that is often equal to or better than natural diamonds.
In conclusion, clarity is an important factor to consider when purchasing a lab grown diamond. Lab grown diamonds tend to have fewer inclusions and blemishes than natural diamonds, but it’s important to purchase from a reputable source to ensure quality. When considering the 4Cs of diamond quality, it’s important to prioritize what matters most to you and your personal preferences.