Clarity
 Description
FL
 Flawless - No internal or external imperfections visible
using a 10X microscope.
IF
 Internally Flawless - No visible internal imperfections,
but may have minor surface blemishes visible when
using a 10x microscope.
VVS1-VVS2
 Very, very slightly included - Inclusions that are
extremely difficult for a skilled observer to locate using
a 10x microscope
VS1-VS2
 Very slightly included - Very small inclusions that are
very difficult for a skilled observer to locate using a 10x
microscope. In rare instances, with larger stones,
some VS1/VS2 inclusions can be seen with the naked
eye, after first being located using a microscope.
SI1-SI2
 Slightly included - Refers to diamonds which have
small inclusions that can be easily located using a 10x
microscope. In some instances, such inclusions can
be seen with the naked eye, after first being located
using a 10x microscope.
I1, I2, I3
 Imperfect - Medium to large inclusions which are
readily apparent to a skilled observer with the unaided
eye.
Color
 Description
D, E, F
 Colorless
G, H, I
 Near Colorless
J
 Near Colorless closer to
Faint Yellow
K, L, M
 Faint Yellow
N, O, P, Q, R, S-Z
 Very Light Yellow - Yellow
Diamond cut is perhaps the most important of the four Cs, so it is
important to understand how this quality affects the properties and
values of a diamond. A good cut gives a diamond its brilliance, which
is that brightness that seems to come from the very heart of a
diamond. The angles and finish of any diamond are what determine
its ability to handle light, which leads to brilliance. Most Certified
diamonds will state the cut grade by:
Ideal - Excellent - Very Good - Good - Fair - Poor
The 4Cs
Diamond Education
CLARITY
COLOR
CARAT WEIGHT
CUT
Every diamond is unique. Each reflects the story of its arduous journey from deep inside the earth to a
cherished object of adornment. Yet all diamonds share certain features that allow us to compare and evaluate
them. These features are called the 4Cs.
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Diamond Quote