Because of their unique optical properties, diamonds, more than any other gemstone, are capable of producing the maximum amount of brilliance. While minute crystals of diamond or other minerals are contained in almost all diamonds, a diamond that is virtually free of inclusions and surface markings will be judged as flawless. In these diamonds, nothing interferes with the passage of light or spoils the beauty. But these diamonds are extremely rare and will command a high price.

To determine a diamond's clarity grading, it must be examined under a 10x magnification by a trained, skilled eye. What minute inclusions there may be make every diamond unique. These are, in fact, nature's fingerprints and do not mar the diamond's beauty nor endanger its durability. Without high magnification, you may never see these inclusions. However, the fewer there are, the rarer your diamond will be.

Clarity has a scale ranging from Flawless (F) to highly visible inclusions (I3). Clarity, Mother Nature's birthmark of a diamond, is based on Inclusions (internal), and blemishes (surface).

A gem microscope is used to view the diamond under 10x magnification. The size, nature, location and
number of the characteristics are used to determine the clarity. Diamonds have characteristics that make each diamond unique.

Note: Forsythe Jewelers has a binocular gem microscope with 10x to 65x on the premises to show you the difference.