The value of a diamond is depending over its internal and external characteristics. Some diamonds might have cavities, clouds, and other crystals and minerals which are called as inclusions while some have surface defects called as blemishes such as breaks and scratches.
The clarity of diamonds defines the smoothness and clearness quality. It may be graded according to the number of inclusions and blemishes. Diamonds having no defects seen under a ten times (10x) magnification are very rare and possess high value.
The diamond clarity grading has a chart that consists of different grading grades. These can be used to set apart the clarity rang. There are eleven different grades in the diamond clarity chart that was created by Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
FL (Flawless) – this is the grade of diamonds having no imperfections seen inside and out under a 10x magnification.
IF (Internally Flawless) – diamonds that are flawless inside but have only minimal blemishes are graded as IF.
VVS (Very, Very, Slightly included) – small inclusions seen in the diamond will be graded as VVS. This grade scale can be in two forms; VVS1 and VVS2. Difference of the two VVS grades is the position of inclusions whether on the lower (better and less visible) or upper part.
VS (Very Slightly Included) – VS diamonds have inclusions seen under magnification. Inclusions that are difficult to see are considered as VS1 grade.
SI (Slightly included) – diamonds having noticeable inclusions have an SI grade. SI1 and SI2 grade scales differ only on the size and position of inclusions seen in diamonds.
I (Included) – has I1, I2, and I3 grade scale forms. Diamonds with very clear inclusions have I grade.
Flaws in each diamond may occur because of the pressure and/or temperature the time it is being formed. The diamond clarity grades have been used by skilled graders enable to assess and check clarity accurately.