In our last article we discussed the importance of color, one of the 4 C’s of understanding the quality of a diamond (color, cut, clarity and carat weight). Today let us look at clarity and some of the unique characteristics this category can reveal in a diamond.

When diamonds are formed through tremendous heat and pressure markings can appear on both the inside and outside of the diamond. External markings are called “blemishes” while internal markings are called “inclusions”. Diamonds are graded based on a scale ranging from “flawless” (F) to “Included” (I). The middle of the spectrum sees labels starting with “internally flawless” (IF), “very very slightly included” (VVSI & VVS2), and “very slightly included” (VSI & VSI2) to “slightly included” (SI1 & SI2), and “Included” (I1, I2, and I3). Many inclusions are so tiny they are invisible to the naked eye, even difficult to view with magnification. Larger inclusions might be visible without magnification and could affect the transparency or brilliance of a diamond.

While some seek out only flawless diamonds, clear of all signs of Earths great forces- we love looking at inclusions through a lens of discovery. Have you every looked up into the sky, searching for animals, symbols, or faces in the clouds? We do the same for inclusions! Mother Nature has left secret one-of-a-kind images inside diamonds for us to find, some of which can be up to 2.5 billion years old!

For the past 35 years we’ve photographed the inside of our diamonds to document their fascinating natural characteristics. Some of our favorites include angels, a teddy bear, mountains, and a natural red garnet, perfectly formed as a heart. We named this 2.00 carat round brilliant cut diamond, “The Forsythe Diamond” and love sharing this garnet heart inclusion as an example of how a “flaw” can make a diamond even more special. Currently we have a 1.71 carat round brilliant cut diamond with the Breast Cancer Bow on the inside, a kayak, a bird, a dinosaur, and an angel.

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind diamond to symbolize your love or mark a special occasion, don’t let Mother Nature’s signature deter you from considering included diamonds in your search. We have an ongoing list of diamonds in stock each with their own unique images; we invite you to stop in and see what you can find in our diamonds yourself. Call us … Mother Nature might have a special message waiting just for you!