Diamonds are formed deep in the earth as a result of carbon exposed to tremendous pressure and heat. This process results in a variety of internal characteristics called "inclusions" and external characteristics called "blemishes". Evaluating diamond clarity involves determining the number, size, relief, nature, and position of these characteristics, as well as how these affect the overall appearance of the stone. While no diamond is perfectly pure, the closer it comes, the higher its value. Generally, clarity has the least impact on a diamond's appearance. Clarity simply refers to tiny, natural imperfections that occur in all but the finest diamonds. • There are a total of 11 grades of clarity within 6 categories • Flawless (FL) No inclusions and no blemishes visible under 10x magnification Internally Flawless (IF) • No inclusions visible under 10x magnification • Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2) Inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10 x magnifications • Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) Inclusions are observed with effort under 10x magnification, but can be characterized as minor • Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification • Included (I1, I2, and I3) Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification which may affect transparency and brilliance Inclusions and blemishes are extremely tiny, even microscopic, and not visible to the naked eye. So a diamond graded "VS1" and another graded "SI2" might look the same, but are graded differently by experts. This would affect the price of the diamond perhaps, but not the beauty of the diamond.
