What Are Inclusions In Diamonds?
Inclusions are natural features within a diamond that affect its appearance. They are formed during the carbon forming process when carbon is exposed to extreme pressure. Diamond inclusions will impact the clarity and value of diamond. Minimal inclusions will not be noticed until under a high magnification microscope, while large inclusions are notable even with the naked eye, leading to low-grade diamond quality.
As a jewelry lover, it is crucial to learn about diamond inclusions before considering which diamond jewelry to purchase. We value your needs as a customer and aim to help you learn about the various types of diamond inclusions and their affect on diamond appearance.
What Are The Common Types Of Diamond Inclusions?
Here are different types of diamond inclusion you should learn about:
Feather Inclusions
Found within the diamond in the form of a tiny crack or fracture, a feather inclusion can appear clear and practically invisible depending on your viewing angle. It can also catch the light and take on a whitish, feather-like appearance.
Severe feathers can pose problems with durability and quality, especially if they reach the surface, are near the diamond's girdle, or have an unappealing color.
Graining
Internal graining, caused by uneven crystal formation, might appear milky or foggy, like faint lines or streaks. They can also look like creases or reflections, depending on their intensity.
Bearding
Hair-like lines often appear during diamond cutting and extend from the diamond's girdle into the surface. The appearance of a highly bearded girdle is a gray and fuzzy fringe, almost as if it has been scratched.
Chip
A diamond's surface has a small, shallow opening near the girdle, culet, or facet joints. This inclusion is often artificial damage produced by wear and tear or accidental hits.
Cloud
A cloud inclusion is a generic phrase that describes a group of pinpoints/crystals found relatively close together. The cloud inclusion may damage the look of the diamond depending on its intensity.
How Are Inclusions Graded?
Various criteria that gemologists use for grading inclusions include:
- Size: The more extensive the inclusion size, the lower the grade of the gem.
- Visibility: The less visible the inclusion, the better the grade of the gem.
- Location: Inclusions at the bottom of the diamond are less likely to affect the value than those at the middle. Additionally, external inclusions are less likely to affect the value of diamond than internal.
Find Your Diamond
With knowledge about diamond inclusions and quality, you can comfortably shop for diamond jewelry. Bichsel Jewelry offers a variety of jewelry and engagement rings in all shapes and sizes, as well as a premier selection of diamonds to fit your custom-design needs and budget.
Utilize our Ring Builder and Ever and Ever Design tools to build your perfect jewelry piece. Visit us in-store or on our website. Contact us, we look forward to assisting you!