Clarity

The clarity of a diamond is determined by the number, size and placement of internal inclusions or surface imperfections in the diamond. This is the most subjective of the 6 C's. Diamonds are found in a wide range of clarity classifications, ranging from F (Flawless), to IF (Internally Flawless), VVS (Very Very Slight Inclusions), VS (Very Slight Inclusions), SI (Some Inclusions), or I (Imperfect). These grades are determined when the diamond is inspected using 10x magnification by a graduate gemologist.

Almost all diamonds contain small traces of diamond crystals or small non-diamond crystals. The fewer inclusions there are in the diamond, the rarer the stone. Because clarity is so subjective, Charleston Alexander submits every diamond selected by our expert gemologists to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the European Gemological Laboratory (EGL), or the American Gem Society (AGS) to be independently graded. We remove all doubt as to the diamond's very high quality by providing this report for our customers' inspection prior to sale.

The clarity scale we use (as illustrated below) was developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and has been accepted worldwide as the industry standard.

Flawless (F)

Diamonds of this grade of clarity are incredibly rare. Even when viewed under a microscope at extreme magnification, this diamond shows not one internal or external identifying characteristic.

Internally Flawless (IF)

These diamonds have no internal inclusions, even when viewed under high magnification. An internally flawless diamond is not graded flawless usually because of very slight surface markings or minor details in the polish. Diamonds of this grade of clarity are extremely rare.

Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 & VVS2)

These diamonds contain very few inclusions that are minute and virtually unidentifiable under high magnification to even the most experienced grader.

Very Slightly Included (VS1 & VS2)

These diamonds have a few small inclusions that cannot be detected by the naked eye and are difficult to see even under high magnification. VS1- and VS2-grade diamonds offer an outstanding value in clarity, as they are visually free of blemishes but are less expensive than higher clarity grades.

Slightly Included (S1, S2 & SI3)

These diamonds contain inclusions that are visible under high magnification but are not usually detected by the untrained eye, especially when the stone is mounted or worn as jewelry. SI1- and SI2-grade diamonds are not as rare as VS1- and VS2-grade, so they are less expensive and offer a great value without compromising the diamond's beauty.

Included (I1, I2 & I3)

These diamonds contain inclusions that are obvious under magnification even to the untrained eye. They may also be apparent to the naked eye. When mounted and worn as jewelry, however, the diamond will usually appear clean, and the inclusions will not detract from its beauty or brilliance.