The third of the 4Cs, diamond clarity is another key to determining the value of your diamond. Like human fingerprints, most diamonds have small markings called inclusions. Ideal diamonds have absolutely no inclusions and are more rare, but the number, position and size of existing inclusions can also affect the value of your diamond.

Grade	Description
F	Flawless. The diamond shows no inclusions or blemishes of any sort under 10X magnification when observed by an experienced grader. Note: Truly flawless or internally flawless (F or IF on the GIA's grading scale) diamonds are extremely rare.
IF	Internally Flawless. The diamond has no inclusions when examined by an experienced grader using 10X magnification, but will have some minor blemishes.
VVS1, VVS2	Very, Very slightly included. The diamond contains minute inclusions that are difficult even for experienced graders to see under 10X magnification.
VS1, VS2	Very slightly included. The diamond contains minute inclusions such as small crystals, clouds or feathers when observed with effort under 10X magnification.
SI1, SI2	Slightly included. Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and may or may not be visible to the naked eye. However, when set in jewelry, the inclusions may become less visible.
I1, I2, I3	Included. Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and are usually visible to the naked eye. This quality allows for a larger diamond to be purchased at a lower price.

Clarity is determined by looking at a diamond at 10X magnification, the grading system is established by the Gemological Institute of America and is the same for all diamonds. The GIA considers any blemishes that can't be seen under 10X magnification invisible.

When you receive your grading report, it will include a drawing of any inclusions in your diamond, these are fairly common but you should look for a diamond with as few inclusions as possible and for small inclusions that do not sit directly below the crown. The crown is the flat surface on top of the diamond that looks down into the diamond's core. Larger blemishes that sit directly under the crown will be more visible to the naked eye.

The most important thing to make sure is that the inclusions don't affect the sparkle of the diamond or its hardness. Otherwise you can consider small inclusions as part of your diamond's unique character.

The higher the clarity, the higher the cost per carat (meaning that a large diamond with many large inclusions will be worth less per carat than a smaller diamond of unsurpassed clarity), if the other 4Cs are all equal.

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