The four C's, color (clarity, carat, and cut,) now and in past years have been the criteria for judging a diamond. These four C's generally are what determine the value of a diamond. Clarity is one of the most important components considered when analyzing a diamond's quality and value.
A diamond clarity grade is determine by the number and size of imperfections that is present in just about every diamond out there. The imperfections affect how much light can pass through the stone. Though, is a diamond's worth dependent only on its clarity rating?
The Significance of Clarity
So why is so much importance placed on clarity? Simply put, regardless of how big the diamond is, the brilliant color it has, or its nice shape, if it has imperfections it will not reflect light as well as it possibly could. Good clarity is what gives the diamond a good reflection. This is a feature that many talk about with diamonds, so a low clarity grade will negatively impact the demand and therefore the value.
The Emphasis on Clarity
As mentioned, a great deal of importance is placed on clarity. Though, the amount of emphasis given to a diamond's clarity rating is questioned by some. Does one have to have great clarity in order to be declared a beautiful stone? The answer is that clarity isn't the only factor when looking at a gemstone.
For a diamond to be considered quality, it doesn't have to achieve the highest grade. However, it does need to have a certain level of clarity to it, as a diamond with too many imperfections will not be desired. Very few diamonds are considered to be internally flawless, meaning it has no imperfections.
The ones that are in this category are very rare and expensive. Though, a diamond can still be very beautiful and valuable despite having inclusions that can only be viewed when magnified.
The next time you are shopping for diamonds, place careful consideration on the clarity rating of the diamond, but not too much to the point where you don't buy one strictly because of it. Use a diamond clarity chart as a reference for evaluating.As discussed before, becuase only a select few diamonds are given the highest clarity grade, you shouldn't over look the other 3 C's while evaluating diamonds. A diamond with good clarity however with just average or above average carat, color, and cut will make a magnificent choice either for yourself or a loved one.
See Also: Diamond Clarity and Color
