clarity how does clarity effect the value of a diamond?

Clarity is one of the four criteria by which diamonds are graded or valued. GoldFellow® gemologists evaluate each diamond we consider purchasing using the 4Cs – carat, cut, color and clarity. Clarity describes the internal and external unique birthmarks known as inclusions such as clouds, crystals and feathers (internal marks) and blemishes (surface marks) of each individual diamond.

Diamonds are created in nature and are therefore naturally imperfect with regards to clarity. Even stones which appear flawless to the naked eye may have inclusions visible under 10X magnification. Flawless diamonds are quite rare and therefore more valuable to cash for diamond buyers like GoldFellow®. No two diamonds are exactly the same and it is the presence of these inclusions which helps identify them.

Inclusions which impact clarity can include:

Cracks
Other minerals
Air Bubbles

Blemishes include:

Scratches
Chips
Pitting

Often times a prong or facet can disguise a flaw which is why diamonds are generally graded outside of their settings. GoldFellow® values the precious metal settings by weight and purity separately from the diamonds themselves and will then pay you cash for gold or platinum.

Clarity grades of diamonds range from flawless to those with significant inclusions. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Diamond Grading System™  has 11 grades of quality ranging from FL which means flawless to I3 which means heavy internal inclusions. Clarity grading takes into account the number, location, color and type of inclusions relative to the size of the diamond and other characteristics under 10X magnification. Most diamonds in jewelry today contain inclusions which are not visible without magnification or training. Diamonds with many visible inclusions may not display well and may appear cloudy and less brilliant because of them.

Diamond grading is performed by humans using the best equipment available.  The GIA and other diamond grading labs often have several gemologists independently grade each diamond sent to them for certification to assure the most accurate reporting.  GoldFellow® gemologists use information from your GIA Diamond Grading Report or other diamond certification to help establish diamond value.