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10 Most Popular Types of Diamond Cuts in 2015

types of diamond cuts

Maybe you know all about the fashion trends for 2015 and that this season (just like any other season), blonde is once again the number one color hair for women, but did you know what diamond cuts are in this year? It’s not exactly something that you read in every fashion magazine, but it’s definitely a trend you need to follow, either if you’re the one who expects (demands!) a diamond ring or the lucky guy who gets to buy it.

Have a look at all the Diamond Shapes Here.

Diamonds last indeed forever, regardless of their shape, but it helps to know a thing or two about types of diamond cuts and different diamond shapes. So, here we are, ready to tell you the 2015 trends for diamond’s cut:

1. Cushion Diamond Cut

You can’t go wrong with a cushion cut, especially since its popularity has increased over the years, leaving behind the once most popular princess cut diamond. Combining the charm of a vintage shape with the sparkle of the current trends, a cushion cut diamond will look breathtaking surrounded by antique diamond halos. If you want to add a touch of glamor, opt for Art Deco ring settings. This is indeed one of the diamond types that will last forever!

2. Vintage Diamond Cut

As we said above, some of the most trendy diamond types and one of the most appreciated diamond shapes from many different diamond shapes are the vintage diamond shapes. From VIP and celebrities to the girl next door, everybody seems to value these days the antique style. Maybe, it’s because the celebrities set the trends when it comes to diamond cuts and shapes (after all, they are the ones who afford to buy different types of diamonds without having to think twice when it comes to the prices), maybe it’s because we all long for the Old Hollywood charm. Either way, we know that vintage cuts of diamonds will be the perfect choice for romantic brides. Whether we’re talking about French cuts, antique cushion or rose cuts, your diamond ring will stand out in the crowd of diamond cuts and shapes.

3. Princess Diamond Cut

It’s true that is no longer the number one choice when it comes to diamond cuts and shapes, but it is definitely among the top three most popular shapes of 2015. It was first created in 1960, and since then many famous and less famous ladies have taken pride in their princess cut diamonds. It has a fancy shape and it goes perfectly with engagement rings. It is known as one of the most flexible diamond to work with and matches almost any style.

4. Round Diamond Cut

One of the most popular cuts of diamond that is still going strong is the round cut diamond. We have to admit that a round diamond cut represents about 75% of all diamonds sold in the world, but this means only one thing: it is really beautiful and desirable. A classic shape, perfect for both romantic and sophisticated ladies, this diamond cut is one of the most beautiful diamond shape of all different diamond shapes we know. We especially like a round shaped diamond with a hearts and arrows cut, which brings a plus of brilliance to the gem that no other round shaped diamond can bring. Due to its cut and shape, this type of round cut diamond can be considered superior to many other sophisticated shapes, especially when it enjoys the proper reflection of light that maximizes its brightness.

5. Marquise Diamond Cut

One of our favorite types of diamond cuts, the marquise diamond reminds us of royalty and a little bit of those gorgeous, evil step mothers from fairy tales. Nonetheless, we really fancy them due to their long and narrow cut that creates the illusion of a greater size and a dazzling sparkle. These football-shaped diamond types are a great choice if you want to maximize the perceived size and add a touch of mystery to your personality.

6. Radiant Diamond Cut

The radiant diamond impresses due to its unique shape and superb sparkle. Not exactly a square, more like a blend between a princess and cushion cut diamond, this diamond shape was created for the fashionistas, who want to stick to the “traditional” diamond jewelry, but will definitely love an extravagant touch to it. A radiant cut diamond has complete brilliant-cut facet pattern, which makes it a truly unique gem in the sea of different diamond shapes.

7. Asscher Diamond Cut

Although this diamond cut dates back to 1902, when two brothers from Holland decided to add new cuts of diamonds on the diamond market, it is one of the trendiest types of diamonds of 2015. The diamond has borrowed the names of the two brothers that shaped it – the Asscher brothers. It is a forerunner to the emerald cuts of diamond, but the remarkable difference hides in the square shape with large step facets, the higher crown and a much smaller table.

8. Emerald Diamond Cut

And here we are, at the emerald cut diamond, a popular and yet desirable diamond cut that brings joy to every bride to be, who is lucky enough to receive it. One of the most beautiful cuts of diamonds, the emerald cut diamond is unique due to the steep cuts of its pavilion. It also has an open table. While they don’t sparkle like brilliant cut diamonds, these diamonds have the power to produce a hall-of-mirrors effect, where the light plays with dark and dazzles the audience.

9. Pear Diamond Cut

The pear cut diamond is the result of a round shape diamond that meets a marquise shape diamond. Its trademark is the tapered point on one end, hence its resemblance with a pear. From the different types of diamonds that have this pear cut, the modified brilliant-cut pear shape diamond is probably the most beautiful, especially if you afford or you’re lucky enough to receive a large size diamond of this type (from 5 carats up). It is absolutely breathtaking!

10. Flawless Diamond Cut

Yes! A flawless diamond cut is always in trends and it should be one of the first things you check before buying a diamond (you probably know about the famous 4Cs by now). Since not many of us are experts in diamonds, the best thing to do before buying a diamond is to get an appraisal, especially if this diamond is part of an engagement ring. A diamond ring appraisal can be done by different accredited institutes, AGI being one of the best in the field. Their experts will tell you all you need to know about your diamond and assess its overall value. Always insure your diamonds based on experts’ appraisals.

 

Engagement Ring Appraisal : A Complete Guide

engagement ring appraisal

Most brides-to-be look at their engagement ring as one of the most precious and valuable thing they own. And this is not only because a diamond or more (you, lucky girl!) adorn their engagement ring, but because the ring is enriched with sentimental value, dreams, hopes and expectations.

Busy with planning their engagement party, wedding, finding the perfect dress and the right shoes to match the dress, many brides forget to seek their engagement ring appraisal. Yes, we all know that there’s no time now for practical thoughts, and you may even feel a little weird about trying to find the real value of your engagement ring, but trust us: there’s no better time like the present.

You need to search for your diamond ring appraisal because if you were to lose it or something would happen to it, you will regret deeply not doing your ring appraisal sooner. No one will take into account the sentimental value of your ring (although in a perfect world they should), so you need to have a document that proves your engagement ring appraisal.

What Is an Engagement Ring Appraisal?

First of all, you need to know that an appraisal is a piece of paper that attests the facts about your engagement ring and its value. It’s important to keep in mind that a diamond ring appraisal is not the same thing with the diamond grading report you usually receive from your jeweler. The report will tell the buyers everything they need to know about their diamond features. Ring appraisals attest the value of the entire jewelry, taking into consideration more than just the diamond (features like other stones, the metal etc.).

Ring appraisals and any other jewelry appraisals, as a matter of fact, must be performed exclusively by certified and accredited appraisers. This means that you need to find an appraiser that has an impressive reputation and great reviews, but most important, an appraiser who has a graduate degree in gemology and is member of a national appraisal society. For example, for a diamond ring appraisal NYC, you need to work with an appraisal company such as the New York Accredited Gemological Institute.

Why Should I Get One?

There are many reasons for which you should consider getting an engagement ring appraisal, besides finding out how much your fiancée has spent for your beautiful ring. This also is a good idea for those who buy the engagement ring and want to think of everything beforehand. Here are the main reasons you should get an appraisal of your ring:

Assesses the real value of your engagement ring – you really need to know this because it will help you insure your ring properly; this is important especially for antique or vintage rings.

Insures your ring for a correct amount of money - this would be the first reason why someone might want to get a diamond engagement ring appraisal; if anything where to happen to your ring (it gets lost, stolen, damaged etc.), the insurance (based on the appraisal) will save you from any regrets.

Provides proof to use in case your ring is stolen and recovered – the appraisal will prove that the ring the police found is yours.

Adds a rider (extension) to cover your ring – this is useful in case you have homeowners’ or renters’ insurance; the rider will cover your ring specifically based on your ring appraisal.

Helps with selling your ring – in case you want to sell your engagement ring, a diamond engagement ring appraisal is a must.

Helps you with the customs process – in case you want to travel in another country, the appraisal will come in handy.

When Do I Need One?

We recommend getting ring appraisals as soon as you buy or receive them. It’s important to have their value assessed at once, so you can benefit from insurance protection and all the other benefits that come with diamond ring appraisals.

We don’t suggest going to a diamond ring appraisal NYC as soon as your fiancée ends his proposal, but you can be sure that going next day to a certified appraiser is a move that can be considered “politically correct”. With so much wedding preparation coming your way and so many opportunities to lose your ring (if not worst) because of all the frenzy, you don’t want to take any chances.

Please note! If the engagement ring is worth less than $500 (auch!), you don’t need a ring appraisal.

How Does It Work?

Getting diamond ring appraisals is quite easy. The most important part is to trust your appraisal in the hands of a certified, accredited, reputable appraiser. Appraisers need to be members of national appraisal societies recognized by the Gemological Institute of America.

The appraisal process implies for the assessment to be done in front of you to make sure that your stone is not switched and the appraisal is accurate. Although you might think it’s a good thing to have the value of your ring inflated, it’s not. You could end up losing money on long term (your insurance company may buy another ring if your own it’s stolen and, even if you insured it for $3000, they will pay the actual price for it).

You should ask to see and make yourself familiar with a plot diagram, which usually includes details such the measurements of the stone and internal features. You could also try to agree on a value before you actually give the ring for appraisal (to have an insurance while the ring is in the hands of the appraiser). When you return to pick your ring, don’t forget to check and see if the stone matches the details on the diagram.

How Much Does It Cost?

As expected, this service doesn’t come free. The ring appraisal cost differs depending on the expertise of the appraiser, the time that he or she is going to dedicate to the process and also the complexity of their work. A diamond engagement ring appraisal may cost from $50 to $150 per hour.

It’s a good idea to ask about the minimum fee the appraiser takes for this type of service. However, we recommend stay away if the ring appraisal cost is too low considering the market, or if the fee is based on the percentage of your ring’s appraisal value. Reputable appraisers usually charge a flat rate, by the piece or by the hour.

Be Careful of Engagement Ring Appraisal and Insurance

It’s important to know that engagement ring appraisal and engagement ring insurance are two different things. Some appraisal agents may also offer insurance policies, but it is recommended to choose to insure your ring to an independent insurer. There’s no chance of bias there, so you will pay a proper amount of money for the insurance. An independent insurer will also guarantee you the best coverage for your ring.

There are different types of insurance policies such as:

Replacement policy – in case your ring will be lost, damaged or stolen, the insurance company guarantees a payment that will allow you to buy an identical ring (considering the current market values).

Actual cash value policy – the most common ring insurance option, this policy allows for your ring to be replaced at its current market value but minus any depreciation that might have occurred.

Valued-at policy – it allows you to receive the actual insurance amount, even if your ring has been appraised at a higher value than it is actually worth (such as an extra amount for the sentimental value).

How to Value Your Engagement Ring

Besides treasuring it for its immense sentimental value, you need to make sure you value your engagement ring according to official standards. If the ring has a diamond center stone, you will most certainly receive a diamond certificate or grading report from the jeweler.

For diamond ring appraisal NYC you should find an independent gemological laboratory such as New York Accredited Gemological Institute that claims that it founded the 4C criteria for diamond appraisal. 4C stands for color, cut, clarity and carat weight (size). These four characteristics will help the appraiser determine the value of your diamond.

Important! Never give any details regarding your ring when you take it to an independent appraiser. The lack of information will help you find out if their appraisal is accurate and if it’s based on their inspection and expertise.

How to Choose Professional Independent Jewelry Appraiser

Carefully! You need to always work with a certified, accredited appraisal company that has a team of professional inspectors. Check the company’s reputation and reviews and don’t believe everything they say on their website without doing some research first. The appraisers, although independent, need to have a degree and be a member of a national appraiser society.

Accredited Gemological Institute meets all these requirements and provides flawless engagement ring and other pieces of jewelry appraisal. Their gemologists have an outstanding education and always assess accurately the magical 4C of a diamond by using last generation equipment.

Appraise your engagement ring now at AGI! Find out more about the appraisal process and fees here by contacting us!

 

How to Sell an Antique Diamond Ring

antique diamond ring

carats (0 mg) round diamond engagement ring. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Selling an antique diamond ring, probably belonging to your grandma, could be frightening. There is a certain level of skepticism involved regarding whether you will be able to crack a fair deal or not. In order to get a reasonable price, you must set the price according to the ring’s craft and the diamond’s worth. This sounds easy, but in reality, it can be a troublesome task.

Read on to know how you can sell a vintage diamond ring at a fair price:

Get the Ring Appraised

Before setting a price, it is advisable to get the ring appraised, preferably from a jeweler. Make sure the jeweler is not interested in buying that antique diamond ring because his advice could influence you and the price of the ring. Try to obtain an unbiased appraisal relating to the antique diamond ring’s cut & uniqueness, condition, and to what extent it meets the antique ‘style’ quotient.

Acquire a Certification

If possible, try to get hold of a certificate from a genuine gemologist. This will permit you to set a higher price for the ring and attract more genuine buyers willing to pay that price.

Find Buyers Exclusively

At first, try to place an ad in a newspaper or a jewelry publication at a price you think is appropriate. Estimate the response of the market and how many buyers you are able to attract at this price. The reaction will help decide whether you scroll the price up or down.

Jewelry Store

It is a good idea to sell your ring at a store that sells antique jewelry. Since you now know the worth of your antique diamond ring, there are high chances that you will get a satisfying price from the buyer. If you feel the price being paid is unmatched to the ring’s worth, you can go elsewhere.

Online Selling

Consider selling your antique diamond ring at an online platform. This will not only permit you to place the lowest possible price that you want for the ring, but there high chances that people may end up biding higher (in case you attract more buyers). It will be plus point if you attach the appraisal and any certification obtained to substantiate your antique diamond ring.

How to Clean Black Diamonds

Français : Black diamond, animation vidéo 3D

Français : Black diamond, animation vidéo 3D (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Black diamonds are real diamonds that are simply black in color. Unlike colorless diamonds, they are opaque and shine-less. Black diamond contains traces of graphite, hematite and magnetite elements, which makes them look black. Unlike colorless diamonds, the 4Cs of assessing diamond quality: Color, cut, clarity and carat do not apply to black diamonds.

Black diamonds are highly sought after by people who are fond of rare stones. Considering the value and demand of these diamonds, it is very important to keep them clean. Follow the steps mentioned below to keep your black diamond clean:

Cleaning the Black Diamond

Make use of the following things:

  • A flat dish,
  • A toothbrush with soft spikes,
  • Ammonia and
  • A soft cloth.

 

  1. Soak the black diamond in hot water for 10-15 minutes so that any layer of oil or dirt loses its grip,
  2. Add thinned ammonia to 1/4th part of plain water; you can also buy a colored diamond cleaning solution that is available at many jewelry stores,
  3. Pour this solution in a flat dish pan and put the black diamond in it for nearly an hour. For best results, make sure that the black stone is completely drowned into the solution,
  4. After an hour, take out the diamond and clean it with the soft-spiked toothbrush. Clean all the sides of the stone to remove the dirt completely,
  5. Wash the diamond with pressured hot water to get rid of the remaining solution film on it,
  6. Buff up the stone using a soft cloth. Use a plain cloth to avoid getting any scratches on the black diamond.

The result will be a clean and dirt-less black diamond! If you are reluctant to clean it on your own, you can take it to a jewelry store and get it cleaned by an experienced individual before your eyes.

It is a good idea to keep your black diamond at a safe place, separate from other jewelry. This is because the contact of other jewelry pieces may damage the diamond, leaving scratches. You must take off your luxurious black diamond ring before getting into dirty household tasks; this will not only keep your diamonds clean but also long-lasting.

See Also:

How to Clean a Platinum Diamond Ring

 

How to Clean a Platinum Diamond Ring

Clean Platinum Diamond Ring

This is a 0.31 carat diamond, F color, SI2 clarity, set in a platinum ring. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend. There couldn’t be a better pairing for a diamond than being studded onto a platinum ring. This ring would undoubtedly, be one of the most precious belongings of any girl. Everyday chores, hand creams, showering or cooking could take away the shine and sparkle of your valuable ring.

Here, you can clean a platinum diamond ring:

Toothpaste Works!

Take a flexible-bristled toothbrush and apply some cleaner on to it. Gently clean the diamond with the brush to clear any layer of dirt that has developed on to the diamond. Make sure that you use a soft brush, as the hard ones can leave scratches on the stone. Once cleaned, wash the ring with tepid water and soak it with a soft cloth. Since, Platinum doesn’t lose its shine or color, unlike metal; this method would be sufficient to preserve it.

The Popular Ammonia Solution:

This is the most popular means of cleaning a diamond platinum ring. Follow the aforementioned steps to bring back luster to your ring:

  1. Boil two cups of water in a dish pan,
  2. Add two tablespoon of ammonia into it and simmer the water solution,
  3. Put your ring in boiling water for approximately 10 minutes,
  4. After 10 minutes, take out the ring using any item to grip it and let it cool down,
  5. Clean the ring softly with a toothbrush and put it back in the same solution for 5 minutes,
  6. Take out the ring from the solution and wash it with plain water.

If you follow these steps accurately, the outcome would be a gleaming platinum diamond ring that looks as if you bought it from a jewelry store today!

Some tips to keep your diamond ring appear sparkling and luminous on a regular basis:

  • It is always a good idea to keep checking for the protection of the stone studded onto your rings. The prong must be in a good condition to maintain the look and fit of the diamond.
  • Make sure you take off your ring prior to gardening or washing dishes.

See Also:

How to Clean Black Diamonds

 

How to Choose a Diamond Settings

diamond setting

First engagement ring – 1.51ct princess cut diamond (G/VS, GIA), 2 0.30ct trillions (G/VS), platinum setting. Sent it back – it wasn’t the right one. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The most popular type of setting for diamond jewelry is the prong setting. The setting holds the diamond strongly and prevents it from falling off. There are many varieties of diamond settings available that change the entire look of the diamond, making it more appealing.

The purpose of a setting is to enhance the impression and visibility of the diamond, while securing it sturdily. Few of the diamond settings are mentioned below:

Prong Settings:

Some common forms of prong settings are mentioned below, so choose according to your taste and preference:

Four-Prong Setting

If you want your diamond to look larger, choose a four-prong setting for your stone. Four-prongs are as strong as six-prongs, so opt for the one that visually appeals to you.

Six-Prong Setting

This is the most preferred choice among women. Besides being strong, six-prongs enhance the fire and brilliance of a diamond. Sadly, the chances of cloth and hair getting stuck into your ring are higher.

Cathedral Setting

This prong setting curves from the bottom of the diamond. If your diamond isn’t round or oval, opt for this setting to ensure the security of your precious stone.

Cross-Wire Lucida Prong Setting

If you are an athlete or a gym person, this prong setting is ideal for you. Cross-wire Lucida prong setting allows the diamond to assemble at the bottom without any chances of becoming loose.

Bezel Setting

If you want to hide any flaws present in your diamond, select this setting to hide any defects. Also, if your diamonds are small, Bezel setting makes them look bigger and brighter.

Channel Setting

If you have manifold diamonds and want them all to be studded in a single piece of jewelry, choose a channel setting. Channel setting enhances the whole look of the diamonds making them look stylish. This style suits both men and women.

Flush Setting

Small and flat diamonds can look attractive if studded into a flush setting. These diamond settings are ideally worn on a regular basis because they are not too showy.

A diamond setting matters to a great extent because they are one of the key determinants of a diamond’s look and appeal. It is worthwhile to decide upon your diamond jewelry setting before you purchase it for a special occasion.

 

 

How to Buy Diamond Jewelry

For many of you out there, buying diamond jewelry will be an entirely new experience, its entirely different form selling jewelry. It is absolutely normal to be excited and eager; but that doesn’t mean you should be overwhelmed by it. Before buying diamond jewelry, understanding its characteristics is imperative.

Go through the fundamentals below to perk up your shopping experience:

The Type

If you plan to wear the stone for a special occasion, like a wedding; a ring or wedding band would be the best option. Whereas, diamond for gift purposes should be in the form of a pendant, bracelet or multi-stone studded ring.

Budget Considerations

Have a clear budget in your mind before you go out to buy diamonds. Underestimating your budget might end up making you gloomy. Going out to a diamond jewelry store without planning a budget may leave you puzzled when confronted with a beautiful diamond jewelry piece. Always establish a budget before buying diamonds to avoid regretful occurrences.

Trending Styles

When buying diamond jewelry, one comes across countless styles that are available in the marketplace. It is easy to pick and choose a particular style for oneself, but buying for someone else can be a complicated decision. Once you are clear in your head about the preferred type and budget, find answers to the following questions:

  • What is the prevailing trend of diamond jewelry?
  • What would suit the current wardrobe?
  • Can my friends and family suggest me some good options?

Size of the Jewelry

Ring and bracelets must be bought according to a pre-measured size. This calculated approach is very important when buying expensive jewelry. Earring length must be kept in mind as special occasions might demand you to wear longer earrings. Buying necklaces can leave you in a fix, especially if the person you are buying for, is not with you during the purchase. In such cases, ask the jeweler if the jewelry can be exchanged to match the relevant size.

Assess the Diamond

Ordinarily, a diamond is assessed on 4 criteria, also called the four Cs:

  • Diamond Cut: A diamond must be symmetrically cut in order for it to shine,
  • Diamond Clarity: Look out for small blemishes and scratches which cannot be seen through naked eye,
  • Diamond Color: A perfect diamond stone is uncolored,
  • Diamond Carat: The size of a diamond reflects its value. The bigger the size, the higher the value.

How to Buy a Marquise Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

Marquise cut diamond

English: Red Marquise cut glass gemstones. 14x7mm (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

One of the ideal choices you make for your engagement is opting for a marquise cut diamond engagement ring. The marquise cut is basically an oval cut diamond, which is long and slim. It tends to be nearer to your finger mainly due to its cut. Marquise cuts look beautiful on long and lean fingers as compared to short and wide ones.

Marquise diamond cuts are alternatively known as “Navette Cut”, having 50-58 facets. Whether you opt for an antique or vintage fashioned ring, every style looks good with a marquise cut diamond studded on it.

When buying a marquise cut diamond engagement ring, make sure you examine the stone based on the 4Cs criteria, like other diamonds.

  • Diamond Cut: A marquise cut must be ideally between length to width ratios of 1.75 to 2.25 to keep up with the ‘bow-tie’ effect; any measurement close to this ratio is also acceptable;
  • Diamond Color: It is recommended that you buy a marquise if its color is near to being colorless. however, if you want a fancy colored marquise cut, then the choice is yours;
  • Diamond Clarity: Any flaws or impurities present become more evident in a marquise cut diamond. Thus, before buying, ensure that you check for the clarity quotient;
  • Diamond Carat: Carat is not much of an issue because the cut and shape of a marquise diamond make it look larger than the carat weight.

Besides the 4Cs, there are many other considerations that need to be taken care of when buying a marquise cut diamond ring for your engagement:

  • The prong setting for the diamond ring should be such that it holds the diamond sturdily and does not tamper its tip.
  • Check if the marquise diamond is evenly cut from all sides and whether the curved sides match each other.
  • The bow tie should not be over-prominent in its look,
  • The diamond must be placed in the center of the metal band and should not be disproportionate.
  • Prefer buying a marquise cut diamond ring from a renowned seller who is a specialist in this category of diamond cuts.

It is recommended that you ask for a certificate along with the marquise cut diamond engagement ring apart from warranties and guarantees. Make your choice sensibly, taking into account the above mentioned tips and recommendations.

For further information about diamonds vist AGINewYork.com

Understanding the Clarity “C” of Diamonds

diamond calrity

Diamonds are one of the most precious stones on earth. Needless to say, one needs to be very careful and informed while making such a costly purchase. That being said, there are four factors that determine the quality, hence affect the value of a diamond. These four factors are collectively known as the 4 Cs.

The 4 Cs stands for:

  1. Cut
  2. Clarity
  3. Color
  4. Carat weight

This article talks about the second C that is clarity. Diamond clarity refers to the extent to which there are imperfections and blemishes in a particular diamond. A diamond that features major blemishes and inclusions is rated low on the diamond clarity scale. This is because such diamonds have flaws and interruptions that obstruct the path of light when passed through the particular diamond. As a result, this particular diamond will shine less when exposed to light. The location of the inclusion also affects the brilliance of a diamond. Expert diamond cutters go to great lengths to cut a diamond in such a way as to hide the inclusions present on it.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has developed the 11 point diamond clarity scale on the basis of which the clarity of diamonds can be graded. GIA has considered several factors while devising this clarity chart. These include the number, color, size, reflectivity and the location of the inclusion or blemish that can be seen under ten times (10x) magnification.

Following is the GIA’s diamond clarity scale with explanations along with each grade:

FL (Flawless): It implies that the diamonds are absolutely free of any inclusions or blemishes.

IF (Internally Flawless): It means that the diamonds contain no inclusions, but there are certain blemishes that are visible under 10 x magnification.

VVS1, VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): This implies that the diamonds contains some inclusions but they are difficult to be seen under 10 x magnification. The VVS1 inclusions can only be seen from the pavilion, while the VVS2 inclusions can be seen from the crown.

VS1, VS2 (Very Slightly Included): This clarity grade implies that the diamonds have inclusions that can clearly be seen under 10 x magnification, however these inclusions are very insignificant and can be marked as minor.

SI1, SI2 (Slightly Included): This clarity implies that the diamonds have noticeable inclusions that can be easily seen under 10 x magnification. The SI1 flaws are normally undetectable by the naked eye, whereas the SI2 flaws are generally visible to the naked eye.

I1, I2, I3 (Included): This implies that the diamonds contain obvious inclusions that are so major that they can affect the shine, transparency and brilliance of the particular diamond.

Don’t believe anyone when it comes to purchasing diamonds. It is a pricey decision. Stay informed and make your own choice.