Tag Archive: Gemological Institute of America

Understanding the Clarity “C” of Diamonds

diamond calrity

Diamonds are one of the most precious stones on earth. Needless to say, one needs to be very careful and informed while making such a costly purchase. That being said, there are four factors that determine the quality, hence affect the value of a diamond. These four factors are collectively known as the 4 Cs.

The 4 Cs stands for:

  1. Cut
  2. Clarity
  3. Color
  4. Carat weight

This article talks about the second C that is clarity. Diamond clarity refers to the extent to which there are imperfections and blemishes in a particular diamond. A diamond that features major blemishes and inclusions is rated low on the diamond clarity scale. This is because such diamonds have flaws and interruptions that obstruct the path of light when passed through the particular diamond. As a result, this particular diamond will shine less when exposed to light. The location of the inclusion also affects the brilliance of a diamond. Expert diamond cutters go to great lengths to cut a diamond in such a way as to hide the inclusions present on it.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has developed the 11 point diamond clarity scale on the basis of which the clarity of diamonds can be graded. GIA has considered several factors while devising this clarity chart. These include the number, color, size, reflectivity and the location of the inclusion or blemish that can be seen under ten times (10x) magnification.

Following is the GIA’s diamond clarity scale with explanations along with each grade:

FL (Flawless): It implies that the diamonds are absolutely free of any inclusions or blemishes.

IF (Internally Flawless): It means that the diamonds contain no inclusions, but there are certain blemishes that are visible under 10 x magnification.

VVS1, VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): This implies that the diamonds contains some inclusions but they are difficult to be seen under 10 x magnification. The VVS1 inclusions can only be seen from the pavilion, while the VVS2 inclusions can be seen from the crown.

VS1, VS2 (Very Slightly Included): This clarity grade implies that the diamonds have inclusions that can clearly be seen under 10 x magnification, however these inclusions are very insignificant and can be marked as minor.

SI1, SI2 (Slightly Included): This clarity implies that the diamonds have noticeable inclusions that can be easily seen under 10 x magnification. The SI1 flaws are normally undetectable by the naked eye, whereas the SI2 flaws are generally visible to the naked eye.

I1, I2, I3 (Included): This implies that the diamonds contain obvious inclusions that are so major that they can affect the shine, transparency and brilliance of the particular diamond.

Don’t believe anyone when it comes to purchasing diamonds. It is a pricey decision. Stay informed and make your own choice.

What Does the Color of Diamonds Mean?

color of the diamonds

4 C’s

When experts examine diamonds, they are looking at four different aspects of the gem, called the 4 Cs. These are the color, cut, clarity, and carat of the diamond. The color of diamonds is the element that many laypeople simply do not understand, especially since many people who are looking at two diamonds might not be able to pick up the subtle color differences that an expert can see. The colorless diamonds, also called white diamonds, actually have varying levels of color in them. Diamonds that have a yellowish or brownish tinge to them are not as valuable as the diamonds that are truly clear and colorless.

Color of Diamonds

To determine the color quality of a diamond, the expert needs to look at it before it goes into a piece of jewelry though. When it is in a setting, the metal can actually make a clear diamond look as though it has a slightly different color. When they are in yellow gold, they might appear as though they have a yellow tint although it is just a trick of the light.

Experts will judge the color of the diamond based on a system set up by the Gemological Institute of America, or AGI New York . They have a grading system for diamonds that goes from D to Z. Those diamonds that have a score of D are extremely rare. It means that they are entirely colorless, and these are the most sought after of diamonds. The diamonds that have a Z grade would have a lot of unwanted color in them. Naturally, where the diamond falls in this grade will greatly determine the value of the diamond.

The diamonds rated D, E, and F are colorless. Those rated G, H, I, and J are nearly colorless, and K, L, and M have some color to them.  It is usually slight but yellow. Most of the time, people can’t see the color with the naked eye. Diamonds graded N, O, P, Q, and R have a visible yellow tint to them. S through Z graded diamonds are visible as well, and they are noticeably worse. The diamonds that fall into that category may even take on a brown appearance. You may even be able to see the color difference when the diamond is mounted.

When you are choosing colored diamonds, try to understand What Does Diamond Mean to you? Always inspect the diamond and check the diamond report to see where it falls on this scale.