Clarity is an important aspect of a diamond, and it is important to know how to grade the clarity of a diamond before you buy one. It is actually quite easy to learn how to grade the clarity of a diamond.
There are basically two things that you must understand:
Diamonds with visual inclusions and blemishes, and those that are 'eye clean' meaning that there are no inclusions or blemishesthat can be seen with the naked eye. From there, the clarity of a diamond is further broken down into subcategories.
Many people mistakenly think that diamond clarity refers to how clear it is. This isn't so. Clarity actually refers to the internal and external imperfections of the diamond. The best diamonds, of course get a grade of FL or IFFlawless or Internally Flawlessmeaning that it is perfect. A grade of I-1, I-2 or I-3 means that the diamond is imperfect, with a grade of I-3 being the worst.
Other grades are VVS1 and VVS2, which means that the diamond is very, very slightly imperfect; VS1 and VS2, meaning the diamond is very slightly imperfect; SI-1 and SI-2, which means that the diamond is slightly imperfect.
When buying diamonds and diamond jewelry, visit a reputable dealer and ask the right questions. By doing your due diligence, you will be happy with the result of your eventual purchases.
