How To Buy A Diamond - Learn To Read A Diamond Clarity Chart

You may have heard of the so called "four C's" of diamond valuation: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight, but what do those terms mean and how do diamond graders determine the way in which these diamond properties translate into the value of the stone? While color or the absence of color, which is what we're really looking for in a quality diamond, cut, and carat weight may be self explanatory, clarity needs a little definition. One tool that the experts use in valuing diamonds is a diamond clarity chart.

So you've found a gorgeous diamond kiss necklace for your sweetheart and you want to know just how the diamonds measure up in terms of clarity? The chart and clarity grading system developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) rates a diamond's clarity based on the presence of, or absence of, inclusions, which are also known as flaws in the diamond.

Understanding Diamond Clarity - It's All In The Chart!

The clarity chart uses a multi-tiered system for grading the diamond's clarity. Grades FL-IF describe an internally flawless diamond. This is where diamonds aspire to be. VVS1-VVS2 indicate the presence of very very slight inclusions. These are rarely visible to the naked eye and must be viewed under the magnification of a jeweler's loupe. A VS1-VS2 rating means the diamond has very slight inclusions, still only visible under magnification. I1-I3 ratings indicate a stone with visible inclusions. These can be seen with the naked eye and, the higher the number, the more imperfect the stone. In fact the "I" in these ratings means just that: imperfect.

The clarity rating, combined with the other three "C's", serve to determine the value of the stone.

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