When most people think of diamonds, they think of the sparkling gemstones that are used in jewelry. What many people don’t know is that diamond inclusions are common and actually play an important role in the evaluation of a diamond. This article will talk all about diamond inclusions including what they are, how they are evaluated, and why they are important.
What Are Diamond Inclusions?
Firstly, what are diamond inclusions? A diamond inclusion is any material that is trapped inside the diamond during its formation. This could be another piece of diamond, a mineral, or even just a void in the crystal structure. Diamond inclusions can actually be quite beautiful and add to the uniqueness of the diamond.
Whether it’s a naturally grown diamond or a lab-grown diamond, almost every single diamond has inclusions. In fact, most diamond experts have never seen a diamond that is completely flawless.When diamonds are made, they are put under extreme heat and pressure. While diamonds are the hardest mineral there is, this extreme heat and pressure can cause fractures in the crystal structure. These fractures can happen during the formation process or even after the diamond is formed.
How Are Diamond Inclusions Evaluated?
When it comes to evaluating diamond inclusions, there are a few different factors that are considered. The first is the size of the inclusion. The smaller the inclusion, the less it will affect the diamond’s overall appearance. Inclusions that are visible to the naked eye are usually considered to be more of a flaw.
The next factor is the location of the inclusion. Inclusions located near the surface of the diamond can be more easily seen than those that are located in the center of the diamond. Inclusions near the surface can also affect the way light enters the diamond, which can affect the diamond’s overall sparkle.
The last factor is the type of inclusion. Some inclusions, such as other diamonds, can actually add to the value of the diamond. Other inclusions, such as fractures, can decrease the value of the diamond.
Types of Diamond Inclusions?
Now that we’ve talked about how diamond inclusions are evaluated, let’s talk about the different types of inclusions.
Pinpoint
These are small, round inclusions that are often found in groups. Pinpoints are the most common type of inclusion and usually don’t have a big impact on the diamond’s appearance.
Needles
Needles are long and thin inclusions that often have a triangular shape. They can be difficult to see with the naked eye but can be seen under a microscope.
Feathers
Feathers are inclusions that look like, you guessed it, feathers! They are often caused by fractures in the diamond and can make the diamond more fragile.
Clouds
Clouds are groups of small inclusions that often have a hazy appearance. Clouds can affect the diamond’s transparency and usually have a bigger impact on the diamond’s appearance.
Crystal
Diamonds are actually made of crystals! So, it’s not surprising that sometimes other minerals can be found inside the diamond. These inclusions are also sometimes called “foreign crystals” or “mineral inclusions.”
Natural
Natural inclusions are a part of the original diamond that was left during the cutting process.
Chip
Chips are small fractures or breaks in the diamond. They are usually found on the surface of the diamond or near the edge of the diamond. This type of inclusion usually occurs after the diamond has been cut and put into jewelry from wear and tear.
Graining
Graining is a type of inclusion that can look like lines or streaks on the surface or inside of the diamond. It is caused by the different directions of the crystals in the diamond.
Are Diamond Inclusions Bad?
Not at all. Diamond inclusions are completely natural and might end up being a good thing.Many of the inclusions aren’t visible to the naked eye and would need a special magnifying glass to see. This means that a diamond with several inclusions will be cheaper than a flawless diamond, but will still look the same in a finished piece of jewelry.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to deciding if you want a diamond with inclusions or not, it really comes down to personal preference. You can buy high quality lab grown diamonds at Rare Carat. If you are looking for a diamond on a budget, then choosing a diamond with inclusions might be the way to go. Now that you’re ready to start looking at diamonds, check out rarecarat.com for all your diamond needs!