Most diamonds have unique clarity
characteristics, much like a fingerprint. These distinguishing characteristics
can be classified as inclusions and blemishes. Inclusions are
enclosed within a diamond, or they extend into the diamond from its surface.
Blemishes are confined to the diamond's surface. These characteristics can
detract from the pure beauty of the diamond. When light enters a diamond, it is
reflected and refracted out. If there is anything disrupting the flow of light
in the diamond, such as an inclusion, a proportion of the light reflected may
be lost.
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GIA and AGS Clarity Grade Scale
The table below provides an explanation of the clarity grades and
demonstrates the effect that clarity has on diamond pricing, assuming carat,
cut and color remain the same. To get the most value, Adiamor suggests
selecting a diamond that is "eye clean" where no internal flaws are visible to
the unaided eye.The sample images shown depict how a flaw (inclusion or
blemish) may appear under 10X magnification.
GIA
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AGS
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Image
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Description
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Price*
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FL - IF
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0
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Flawless and Internally Flawless
Flawless: No inclusions or blemishes of any sort under 10X
magnification. Internally Flawless: No inclusions, but some minor
blemishes.
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$6,775
$6,450
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VVS1-VVS2
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1 - 2
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Very Very Slightly included
Contains minute inclusions that are very difficult to see under 10X
magnification, even for an experienced grader.
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$6,175
$5,850
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VS1 - VS2
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3 - 4
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Very Slightly included
Contains minute inclusions when observed with effort under 10X magnification.
An excellent value as there is no noticeable difference to the unaided eye from
VVS.
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$5,700
$5,650
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SI1 - SI2
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5 - 6
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Slightly Included
Contains inclusions noticeable under 10x magnification. An SI1 should
not have any eye visible inclusions, but SI2 may, depending on the
size and location of the flaws.
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$5,000
$4,500
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I1 - I2 - I3
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7 - 8 - 9
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Included
Contains inclusions that are obvious under 10X magnification and possibly to
the unaided eye. Adiamor does not carry I-grade clarity.
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Not
Available
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* Price based on 1 ct., H color, excellent-cut diamond.
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As illustrated above, you may not notice a significant difference
between an SI1 and a SI2. However, you should consider the number, size,
brightness, nature, and position of the inclusions of an SI2 graded diamond to
ensure that it is eye clean. Some inclusions can be hidden by a prong when
mounted, thus having little effect on the beauty of a diamond. An inclusion in
the middle or top of a diamond, however, could impact the dispersion of light,
sometimes making the diamond less brilliant.
Our diamond consultants can inspect an SI2 graded diamond to ensure that it is
eye clean before your purchase. For assistance, please contact one our diamond
consultants toll free at 1-877-627-5094 or
email us.
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