A diamond is commonly expected to be flawless throughout. However, there are unavoidable glitches in the creation of almost every stone in existence which were naturally created during its formation. Seemingly flawless diamonds are priced as the highest, while more flawed ones obviously cost less. Internal flaws are usually visible with the aid of a tool like a magnifying glass. Meanwhile, external flaws are visible to the naked eyes. Below is a discussion of the flaws of diamonds to know about before you purchase your diamond rings.
External Blemishes
Errors that are easily visible on the table of a diamond, such as a cut or a spot, cannot be missed by the naked eye. These blemishes bring the stone’s price down dramatically, as they reduce the visual appeal of the diamond. Most people do not like to have such flaws on their engagement rings, as this affects appearance. It is possible to remove these blemishes through the polishing process, but some are kept on the diamonds in order to preserve the carat count.
External blemishes include natural inclusions, polish lines, extra facets, burn marks, surface graining, scratches, pits, nicks, and abrasions. Abrasions consist of small marks throughout the diamond’s surface; a burn mark means a white or foggy facet brought about by excessive heating of the stone; and sometimes, a diamond has an additional facet. A natural inclusion is a section of the diamond that stays rough without finish or polish. This usually occurs when the cutter tries to maintain the weight of the stone. Other inclusions occur when the diamond is cut or processed. Nicks are marks used to indicate the cutting position on rough diamonds; polish lines are scratches picked up while polishing; and surface graining occurs when there are parallel lines along the surface of the stone.
Internal Flaws
A diamond with internal flaws is difficult to spot with the naked eye, and sometimes even using magnifying devices. Besides, diamonds with flaws always cost less. When a diamond with barely noticeable flaws costs less, it is a benefit to the buyer.
Internal flaws can occur in different forms. Chipping is when a fragment is removed from the diamond; a feather constitutes a fracture that resembles a feather; a group of inclusions is called a cloud; cavities are small holes; and cleavages are cracks that open towards a single direction.
If you have a fair idea regarding the possible imperfections that a diamond can have, you can make a better decision when you ultimately buy engagement ring for yourself.
