What Are Inclusions In A Diamond?

Did you know that diamonds are not alike? From a mere look, they look alike and identical. The truth is, they are not. But what makes them different?

Essentially, three factors bring out the difference in diamonds. These are the Cs:

• Color
• Clarity
• Carat
• Cut

These factors are subsequently subdivided and thus used to grade the diamonds. The four elements are why diamonds are not alike and hence the variation in prices.

What Are Diamond Inclusions?

Inclusions are the flaws that exist within a diamond. Research shows that it is scarce to find a flawless diamond. Clarity is what defines the quality of a diamond. A diamond is considered to have perfect clarity when there are no detectable inclusions within its composition. Inclusions in a diamond can be seen under a magnification of up to 10X. It means that you cannot possibly see the inclusions with your naked eyes.

Diamonds develop under extreme temperatures and pressure. It implies that they are likewise prone to unpredictability during formation. Natural inclusions can occur as a result of these unexpected circumstances. Inclusions could also happen due to some diamond operations, such as laser drilling or inappropriate fashioning.

Different Types of Diamond Inclusions

If you are looking forward to purchasing diamonds, then you need to be well informed. You need to know the various types of diamond inclusions. These include:

Pinpoint Inclusions

It is the most famous type of diamond inclusion. These are small black spots that resemble blackheads on human skin. 

Feather Inclusions

These are ranked second on the list of the most famous types of diamond inclusions. They are cracks that generally run from the top to the bottom of the diamond. You must pay a lot of attention to this type of inclusion, for it could make the diamond weak and vulnerable.

Diamond Cavities 

Have you ever heard of tooth cavities? The diamond cavities are not so different from tooth cavities. They are typically small holes in the diamond. If you notice a cavity in a diamond, do not buy it. Diamonds with cavities are considered low grade and therefore not worth buying.

Are Inclusions Bad?

The inclusions can take on a variety of forms and sizes. When an inclusion's structure reflects an object, a plant, or an animal, it might become a collector's item. Depending on their appearance, inclusions are referred to as feathers, knots, cracks, bubbles, or crystals.

Inclusions become such an issue only when they can contribute to breaking a diamond (which is rare). The smaller the diamond, the more difficult it is to detect an inclusion with the naked eye. If the inclusion is significant in size and number, it is easier to perceive with the naked eye in larger diamonds. It is very essential to consider where the inclusion is situated. The clarity grade drops if the inclusion is directly beneath the diamond's surface or in the centre. The clarity score is more significant if the inclusion is on the edges.

Final Thoughts 

The fact is that we cannot necessarily have perfect diamonds. You will most of the time come across diamonds with various inclusions. All you need is to be able to differentiate them. Always be on the watch not to fall for the wrong diamond. We can't do away with the diamond inclusions because they are part of diamond formation.

Note that fine diamonds will always have clarity grading ranging from VS1 to VS2. It is in adherence to the GIA Clarity grading framework.