Diamond clarity is an important consideration when you're shopping for diamonds. In fact, it's a major component of jewelry quality and has a significant impact on the price you'll pay. While it's true that stones with a higher clarity rating will cost more, as with most purchases, you get what you pay for.

 

Because there are several different grades, understanding clarity will help you get the most for your money. This guide should help you to choose the diamond jewelry that looks great at a fair price.

 

If you're looking for the top of the line and aren't concerned about price, you'll want to go with flawless or eternally flawless clarity. These diamonds are extremely rare and expensive and as the name suggests, are without flaws.

 

But, don't despair if a flawless diamond is out of reach for you. The next grade, very, very slightly included, contains such a tiny flaw that it's invisible to the naked eye. In fact, many times you can't even see the flaw if you magnify it up to 10 times. While still pricey, it's easier to find and more accessible to many people.

 

Many will choose the next grade in line, very slightly included. To the naked eye, these stones usually look flawless. In reality, they have flaws that can be seen under 10x magnification. Since most people are not going to walk around examining your ring with a magnifying glass, this grade is a great value for your money and among the most popular choices.

 

As you may have guessed, slightly included is the next grade of clarity. Sometimes flaws are easily visible in this grade. But, for those on a strict budget, this grade can provide a nice quality of jewelry for the money.

 

Lowest on the clarity totem pole are all other grades of included. These are generally not suitable for gifts to others and are not considered fine jewelry at all. Be careful, though, because some stores do sell them.

 

If your budget is modest and you decide to get one of the lower grades, don't worry. There are ways to keep some quality appeal, without sacrificing your bank account. For instance, choosing an interesting cut or a unique setting can really enhance the appearance of your gem.

 

You might also want to consider a colored diamond. Although many people go with the traditional white and may not even realize that other colors exist, colored diamonds tend to reveal fewer flaws than their white counterparts.

 

By understanding the different levels of diamond clarity before you go shopping, you'll save yourself a lot of money and get better quality diamond jewelry in the process. Whether shopping for yourself or for others, knowledge is the key to making the most of your purchase.

 

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