Color Diamond Clarity
Should we judge the clarity of a fancy color diamond the same way we do the clarity of a white diamond?
AMGAD: In a white diamond, clarity can make or break the stone, and VS clarity is usually ideal. But for fancy color diamonds, clarity is not the most important factor.
A fancy color diamond that is graded SI is still what is known as "eye clean," meaning that inclusions cannot be seen with the untrained, naked eye. Additionally, small pinpoints or feathers do not usually affect fancy colors due to the deeper coloring of the diamond. Fancy diamonds of VS or better clarity are more uncommon in nature and therefore command a greater price.
What is the most important feature of a color diamond?
AMGAD: Color is the most important factor in determining a color diamond's value. Clarity is not as critical, and unless inclusions are directly on the diamond's table, most are not noticeable to the naked eye and will not affect the look of the diamond -- or its sparkle.
Inclusions on or near the girdle can be covered up with most settings. In some instances, an inclusion will even be the same color as the diamond, making it virtually invisible.
What type of inclusions do you see most in color diamonds?
In colored diamonds, the inclusions are often crystals that exhibit much the same color as the diamonds. To the untrained eye, these crystals blend right in with a diamond's color and can create the appearance of more brilliance.
