Aucoin Hart Enlightens You
When you're looking for that special diamond, a microscope or jeweler's loupe can open your eyes to what the naked eye might miss. Within this tiny crystalline world, there are minute pinpoints, crystals, and feathers encased in the crystal that identify your diamond much like a fingerprint. These identifying characteristics are known as the inclusions. The degree to which a diamond contains inclusions & blemishes determines the clarity and rarity of the gem.
The following is the Gemological Institute of America's system of grading clarity*:
Flawless – Shows no blemishes or inclusions when examined by a skilled grader
Internally Flawless (IF) – Shows no inclusions and only blemishes
VVS1 – Very, very slightly included; minute inclusions, extremely difficult to see
VVS2 – Very, very slightly included; minute inclusions, very difficult to see
VS1 – Very slightly included; minor inclusions; difficult to see
VS2 – Very slightly included; minor inclusions; somewhat easy to see
SI1 – Slightly included; noticeable inclusions; easy to see
SI2 – Slightly included; noticeable inclusions; very easy to see and may be visible to the unaided eye
I1 – Included; Obvious inclusions and usually visible to the unaided eye
I2 – Included; Obvious inclusions and easily visible to the unaided eye
I3 – Included; Obvious inclusions and extremely easy to see by the unaided eye, effecting beauty and durability
*Which mandates – examination by a skilled grader, using 10X magnification and the correct lighting.
Clarity Tips from Aucoin Hart
When searching for your diamond, keep in mind that even an internally flawless diamond is not perfect. Remember, inclusions are nature's signature. Focus on balancing the 4C's with specific emphasis on cut. After we show you the ranges in clarity, we can help you choose the diamond that is most appealing to you.
