When
we speak of a diamond's clarity, we are referring
to the presence of identifying characteristics on
and within the stone. While most of these
characteristics are inherent qualities of the
rough diamond and have been present since the
earliest stages of the crystal's growth below
ground, a few are actually a result of the harsh
stress that a diamond undergoes during the
cutting process itself.
If
you think about the incredible amount of pressure
it takes to create a diamond, it's no surprise
that many diamonds have inclusions-scratches,
blemishes, air bubbles or non-diamond mineral
material-on their surface or inside. Diamonds
with no or few inclusions and blemishes are more
highly valued than those with less clarity, not
just because they are more pleasing to the eye,
but also because they are rarer.
Diamonds
are graded for clarity under 10x loupe
magnification. Grades range from Internally
Flawless, diamonds which are completely free of
blemishes and inclusions even under 10x
magnification, to Imperfect 3, diamonds which
possess large, heavy blemishes and inclusions
that are visible to the naked eye. Begin your
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Diamonds.
