A diamond's clarity, like color, is determined by nature. That's why it is possible to find some imperfections in almost every diamond. These tiny feathers and clouds – called inclusions – affect a diamond's value.
Gemologists study the size, location, type and number of inclusions to arrive at a clarity grade. A diamond is said to be "flawless" if no inclusions or surface blemishes can be seen under 10-power magnification by a gemologist. Truly flawless diamonds are rare.
Your Tivol sales professional will discuss both the clarity grade as it appears on your laboratory report and point out specifics about the inclusions.
Visible inclusions may affect your enjoyment of your diamond's beauty, depending on the size of the diamond and the size and location of the inclusions. Large inclusions may deflect too much light, reducing a diamond's sparkle and brilliance. Truly flawless diamonds are very rare - in fact, some flaws or blemishes can only be seen through a microscope - the smaller flaws, the less likely they are to dampen a diamond's fire. Interestingly, these flaws often contribute unique tones and interesting flashes of color in a fancy color diamond.
- FL-IF No inclusions visible (by an expert) under 10x magnification. FL = Flawless, IF = Internally Flawless
- VVS1 -VVS2 Minute -extremely difficult to find under 10x. VVS = Very, very, slight inclusions
- VS1 -VS2 Minor -difficult to find under 10x. VS = Very slight inclusions
- SI1 -SI2 Noticeable, relatively easy to find under 10x. SI = Small inclusions
- I1 -I2 Obvious under 10x. Just visible to the naked eye. I1 = Imperfect
