Howtoselectherdia4

                 Clarity Grading Scale

FL = Completely Flawless under 10X magnification

IF = Internally Flawless under 10X magnification (only external flaws, which could be
removed by more polishing)

VVS1 -VVS2 = Very, Very Slight Inclusions. Minor flaws detectable only by expert
professional under 10X magnification

VS1 -VS2 = Very Slight Inclusions detectable only under 10X magnification

SI1 - SI-12 = Slight Inclusions detectable (with increasing ease) under 10X magnification

I-1 - I-3 = Imperfect. Imperfections visible with the naked eye.

Diamonds that come with an evaluation certificate from GIA or other independent
laboratory, itemize such imperfections, using a proprietary clarity vocabulary, including:

Pinpoint:                A small white dot on the diamond’s surface.
Carbon:                  A small black dot on the diamond’s surface.
Feathers:               Tiny cracks inside the stone Large feathers may “grow” over time,
making the diamond more vulnerable to breakage
Clouds:                   Hazy areas inside the diamond
Crystal Growth:     Small crystalline growth inside the diamond

(Most people view a diamond with only the naked eye, however, so internal perfection
may not be worth the added cost, if a diamond is otherwise alluring, fiery, and dazzling.
To almost every naked eye, diamonds graded IF through SI probably will appear to be
identical in clarity.)

                                  Cut

Traditional principles guide the artistry of gem-cutters, including formulas for facet
number/placement/proportions for each standard diamond shape (round, princess,
ideal, marquis, oval, emerald, etc.) These proportions – especially a gemstone’s depth
relative to its diameter – have evolved to maximize brilliance and fire of any given
diamond. A grading standard for diamond cut is founded on measures how effectively
the gemstone reflects the light that enters it, generating a spectrum of colors.

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