Diamond Clarity

Clearly a better diamond

Diamonds have distinguishing features called 'inclusions', these develop during the stone's formation. It is normal for minute crystals, clouds and feathering to be found in most stones, even if they are only visible through a microscope. This is all part of a diamond's individual nature.

The clarity of a diamond is also graded by international standard, of which there are seven categories.

A diamond's value is determined by the number, type, colour, size and position of these 'birthmarks'.

The fewer and less disturbing the inclusions, the more valuable the diamond.

Only a gem free from these internal or external inclusions can be graded as 'flawless' and these are extremely rare.