Few things in nature are absolutely perfect. This is as true of diamonds as anything else. Diamonds have internal features, called inclusions, and surface irregularities, called blemishes. Together, they are called clarity characteristics. Clarity is the relative absence of clarity characteristics. Blemishes include scratches and nicks on a diamondís surface. Inclusions are on the inside (some might break the surface of the stone, but hey are still considered inclusions). Sometimes, tiny diamond or other mineral crystals are trapped inside a diamond when it forms. Depending on where they are located, they might still be there after the stone has been cut and polished.

The presence of any inclusions - trace minerals, fractures, or other flaws - determines the clarity grade of a diamond. The fewer the inclusions, the higher the price. The charts below are clarity plots, which show the number and size of inclusions typically present in diamonds of a particular clarity grade. Look for a clarity plot on a diamond certificate, or grading report, to get a clear idea of the number and size of inclusions in a particular diamond. From this map, you can accurately gauge a diamond's clarity without even seeing the diamond.

We recommend that you select a diamond that has no inclusions visible to the unaided eye, like VS2 to SI2. Diamonds of this clarity are much less expensive than flawless diamonds, and will not contain inclusions that would otherwise detract from the beauty of the diamond.

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