Surface irregularities and the amount of internal inclusions determine
a diamond's clarity. In order to determine clarity, an expert views
the diamond under a magnification of 10x. The fewer internal inclusions
and surface irregularities a diamond has the higher clarity rating
it will receive.
A higher clarity indicates a more rare and valuable diamond. However,
higher clarity does not necessarily mean a more beautiful diamond
because many inclusions and surface irregularities are not visible
to the human eye. At a clarity level of SI2, inclusions and surface
irregularities cannot be seen by the average naked eye. Diamonds with
a clarity rating higher than SI2 are sought after more for their rarity
than for their increase in beauty.
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