Clarity:

Clarity is one of the 4Cs. A diamond’s clarity is measured using a jeweler’s loupe (a small magnifying glass used to view gemstones) under 10-power magnification. The FTC requires all diamond grading be done under 10-power magnification; any flaws not detected under this magnification are considered to be non-existent.

Most diamonds contain some imperfections (crystals, clouds, or feathers), which can be found inside the stone (called inclusions) or minor nicks, pits or scratches on the surface (called blemishes). Surface blemishes are not considered a major concern, since they can often be polished away. Crystals are mineral deposits trapped inside the diamond; clouds are small specks or hazy areas that give a milky appearance; and feathers are small cracks that appear to be feather-shaped.

The size and location of these inclusions and blemishes will determine the diamond's clarity grade and can have a substantial effect on the value of the diamond. The accepted HRD grading system for measuring a diamond’s clarity ranges from "flawless" (F1) to "included" (I3), which is very obvious even to the naked eye.

Here is an overview of the Clarity Grading Scale:

A truly flawless diamond is extremely rare. In fact, it’s more important that any flaws do not affect the stone’s attractiveness or durability, than that they are ‘perfect’. It is these inclusions that give each stone its individual character, or fingerprint, making your diamond as unique as you are. As a matter of fact, these distinguishing marks are mapped on a diamond grading report (if your stone came with one), enabling you to identify your stone if need be.

Since clarity, or the amount of imperfections or blemishes in a diamond, is so critical, it will of course result in price differences--all other factors being equal. If a one-carat diamond one clarity grade, it’s possible to see a price jump of about $1,000 per carat. Moving two grades can cause an increase of about $700 per carat.

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