In This Article
Small imperfections, known as inclusions, don’t significantly impact the beauty of diamonds, but they can affect the value. In most cases, you can’t see these flaws with the naked eye. As such, diamond enthusiasts and gemologists tend to call minor inclusions ‘internal characteristics’, as opposed to explicitly calling them flaws.
Most consumers agree that a diamond gets some of its character from these internal characteristics. However, diamonds that possess the fewest inclusions will receive the best clarity grades—and a higher price tag to boot.
An important tip to keep in mind is that most diamonds aren’t perfect, but they are indeed unique. Natural blemishes and inclusions can’t be prevented because of the way diamonds are formed. Don’t let minor inclusions deter you, but be wary of inclusions that might impact the stability of the diamond.
Which Diamond Clarity Should You Choose
Budget and personal preference are significant factors when you’re in the market for a diamond. When money isn’t an issue, VVS clarity is an ideal choice if you want a near-perfect diamond.
However, many jewelry experts recommend VS2 and SI1 clarity diamonds if your budget is limited. These diamonds offer a terrific compromise because they have inclusions that are usually invisible to the naked eye and only seen under 10x magnification.
Some people don’t mind visible inclusions in their diamonds, especially if the diamond is antique or within their ideal budget. As long as the diamond inclusion won’t lead to cracking or fissures in the stone, any diamond clarity ranking is fine so long as you love the stone, and you are paying the appropriate (and fair!) price for it.
If you’re confused about what to spend your money on, it is a good idea to do your own research on platforms like the Pricescope diamond and jewelry forum, where you can find detailed information on diamond clarity.
What is a Diamond Certification?
Diamond certificates are especially important if you invest a significant amount of your savings on a diamond. The only way a diamond owner can prove the unique identity of their gemstone beyond doubt is to acquire a diamond certificate.
Richard T. Liddicoat and his colleagues founded the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) clarity scale and diamond grading system in 1953. Since then, the GIA and the AGS certifications have become integral measures of quality in the diamond industry.
A diamond certificate is an official text that contains intricate details about a specific diamond. The diamond grading report or dossier will often contain essential, gemologist-verified data on the unique characteristics of each diamond, e.g., the clarity and color, the carat weight, and the cut.
Additionally, a gemologist will include a few additional comments to provide more detailed insight into the diamond’s fluorescence, polish, and symmetry.
Difference Between a Valuation Certificate and a Diamond Certificate
There is a significant difference between an appraisal certificate or a valuation and a diamond certificate. The latter describes the unique characteristics of a diamond and can be relied on to verify a gemstone. The appraisal or valuation certificate, on the other hand, provides the holder with a monetary replacement figure, which is mainly for insurance-related purposes.
Valuation and appraisal certificates tend to rely on the diamond’s estimated value exclusively. A diamond’s value is determined by supply and demand metrics in the diamond industry, which are bound to change from year-to-year. Considering the unpredictable nature of the market, you’ll need to have your jewelry reappraised every two years.
Holding a diamond certificate not only provides you with proof of its identity, but it also provides a much-needed assurance about its value and unique qualities.
In Summary
Be sure to do your research before investing in any diamond. Also, confirm that the seller is a reputable and trusted name in the jewelry industry. Marketers will try to up-sell you on the best diamond clarity ranking you can afford. However, if you are okay with some diamond inclusions, you could save a lot of money and end up with a stone that is easy to identify and is unmistakenly yours. If you spend a ton, go that extra step to get the diamond certified.
