What is a Diamond Inclusion?

Because diamonds form under tremendous heat and pressure, nearly every one possesses internal and external features called clarity characteristics. These characteristics help gemologists separate natural diamonds from synthetics and simulants, as well as identify individual gems.

Diamond clarity is one of the four quality factors (the 4Cs) that describe and determine the value of a diamond. By definition, clarity means “a gemstone’s relative freedom from inclusions and blemishes.” Both of these clarity characteristics can dim the brilliance of a diamond, though some are so minute that they are invisible to the naked eye, thus affecting the value of the stone.

There are many different types of inclusions, also known as internal clarity characteristics.  As diamonds form in extreme heat and under great pressure, small crystals can become trapped inside. This is a common inclusion. Many of these crystals can only be seen if the diamond is studied at 10x magnification. If the diamond has an irregular atomic structure, it can also have a clarity characteristic called graining. Graining looks like faint lines or streaks. Diamonds can also have internal breaks, formed during or after formation.

Blemishes occur after a diamond’s formation, during the cutting, mounting, and wearing of a polished diamond. Extra facets, polish lines or burns are examples of blemishes introduced during the manufacturing process. Nicks, scratches, chips and abrasions are examples of blemishes introduced during the handling, mounting or wearing of a diamond.

Many inclusions and blemishes are too tiny to be seen by anyone other than a trained diamond grader. In some cases, a diamond can have a flawless clarity, or a total absence of any blemish or inclusion. Since rarity and value are related, a diamonds with a flawless clarity are incredibly rare and thus, the most valuable of all diamonds.

What is a real diamond?

What is a "Real" Diamond?

Diamond is composed almost entirely of a single element, carbon. It forms under conditions of high temperature and pressure that cause its carbon atoms to bond in essentially the same way in all directions.

This definition of diamond applies to diamonds that come from the earth, as well as those that are created in a laboratory. It does not apply to other materials that might masquerade as diamonds.So when you ask a jeweler for a real diamond, you could be asking for a diamond created by nature or one created in a lab – since both materials qualify as diamond. Reputable jewelers avoid the term “real” altogether and clearly distinguish between natural diamonds, synthetic diamonds, and diamond simulants. Gem Source offers certifications for all natural diamonds sold from our store!

Natural diamonds are one of nature’s wonders. Billions of years old, they formed deep in the earth’s mantle and were brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions.

Synthetic diamonds however, are grown in a laboratory and have essentially the same chemical composition, crystal structure and physical properties as natural diamonds. They are not fakes, but they’re not natural. These synthetic diamonds vary in price and value.

Simulated diamonds on the other hand may look like diamonds, but they do not have the same chemical, physical and optical properties as regular diamonds. Any gem can be imitated by natural materials that closely resemble that particular gem. Various materials have been used for centuries to simulate diamonds, such as glass and colorless quartz, topaz, sapphire, beryl and especially zircon, among other gem materials. If you’re shopping for a diamond imitation, be sure you know what you’re getting and what you’re not!

If you’re considering a natural diamond for an engagement ring, be sure to ask for a grading certificate! The report is your proof that the diamond is natural and that its quality is what the seller describes, giving you the important information you need to make your purchase with confidence.