Understanding Gemstone Clarity: What Does It Mean and Why It Matters?

Gemstone clarity is one of the most crucial factors that help determine the value of the gem. Gemstones are beautiful and alluring, the natural ones are highly loved and worn worldwide. The gems price is determined by 4 Cs (Cut, Clarity, Carat Weight, Cut), origin, treatment process, rarity and demand & supply chain. 

Of all these factors, one factor that affects the price the most is clarity. But what exactly is it and why does it matter so much? In this blog, we will discuss every aspect of gemstone clarity, explore its significance and learn how it is assessed. Let's start with - What is the clarity of a gemstone? 

What Is Gemstone Clarity? 

Gemstone clarity simply means how clear the stone is, that is, how absent it is of flaws. Gemstones are naturally formed in Earth under extreme temperatures and pressure and so the formation of inclusions or blemishes in them is pretty normal. 

What are Inclusions?

Inclusions are any flaws internally in the gemstones such as minerals, fractures, patterns etc. They are present within the stone, most of the time they are visible to the naked eye while sometimes it is hard to see them with the naked eye. 

Blemishes 

Sometimes there might be blemishes on the stone that can affect the clarity. Blemishes are external imperfections like scratches, indentations or surface irregularities. 

Also Read - Know How to Identify Natural Gemstones

Significance of Gemstone Clarity - How Does Clarity Affect Gem Values?

Aesthetic Appeal - The clarity of the gem measures the purity and transparency, it decides the aesthetic appeal of the stone. A gem with fine clarity has less or no inclusions which makes it beautiful. The transparency allows the light to pass through it as well and enhances the brilliance of the gems. Because of the enhanced beauty and allure, these gems with exceptional clarity are more costly. 

Rare - Also, notice that the gems with fewer or no inclusions are very rare, which makes them more valuable. 

Durability - In addition to that, the inclusions or blemishes weaken the structure of the stone and make it more susceptible to damage. Generally, gemstones which have less flaws are less prone to scratches and chipping. Because of this, the high-clarity stones tend to retain their value over time and so are better investments. 

Symbolism - In many cultures, it is believed that the clearer the gem is the more it is powerful. Hence, astrologers and experts suggest that one should wear natural, untreated and high-quality gemstones to reap their maximum benefits.

Discover More - What are Navratans? Significance, Arrangement & Benefits 

How To Judge The Clarity Of A Gemstone?

A gemstone clarity chart is used to assess the clarity. There are various grading systems though the most well-known and well-used is the one used by the GIA (Gemological Institue of America). 

The GIA Gemstone Clarity Scale includes the following terms: 

Flawless (FL) - As the name suggests, flawless code means that there are no inclusions or any blemishes in the gem even under magnification. 

Internally Flawless (IF) - This means there are no inclusions in the gem but there are minor blemishes. 

Very Very Slight Inclusions (VVS) - Gems in which there are minor inclusions that are difficult to see even under magnification. 

Very Slightly Included (VS) - These are minor inclusions that can be easily seen through magnification. 

Slightly Included (SI) - Stones in which the inclusions are noticeable even with the naked eye. 

Included (I)- Inclusions that are obviously seen, large in size and affect the stone’s transparency and brilliance. 

For some gems, these Gem Clarity Grading Codes can be different because of certain types of inclusions that can be seen in certain gems. Such as emerald stone generally always have inclusions and so they are graded more leniently. 

Get To Know - Gemstone recommendation - How To Know For Sure Its Correct?

Types of Inclusions and Their Impact

There are many types of inclusions or blemishes seen in different gemstones and they are of different sizes as well. Here are some of the most common ones that are generally seen:

Needles - Small, needle-like inclusions are very commonly seen in almost all gemstones. The small needles are very less noticeable but if the crystals are larger, they can be easily seen. Sometimes, these tiny crystals are larger in number as well. 

Feathers - These are fractures or cracks in the gem which often weaken the stone’s structure. 

Clouds - The clusters of tiny particles are known as the cloud inclusions. These particles create a hazy look a milky one inside the stone. 

Cavities - these inclusions are the small holes or pits, also called indentations on the surface of gems. It affects the durability as well as the polish and appearance of the stone. 

Growth Patterns - natural formation within the gemstone which occurs during the growth or formation are the growth patterns, they create visual distractions most of the time. 

Additional Information - Gemstones You Should Invest In - A Planning For Future!

How Gemstone Clarity Enhances?

To improve the clarity and overall appearance, there are various treatments that are used in laboratories, some of the most common ones are - 

Laser Drilling - In this process, a laser is used to remove the inclusions. The laser creates a tiny tunnel to reach the inclusions and bleach them. 

Fracture Filling - The fractures in the gems are filled to improve the clarity. The fillings are mostly transparent substances like glass, resin, wax, oil, etc. 

Heat Treatment - Heat treatment is the most common treatment that is done on gemstones to enhance their colour and improve their clarity. As the name suggests, in this process, gemstones are heated to a particular temperature to improve their quality.

Also See - How to verify your gemological report

The Role of Clarity in Different Gemstones

Here is the role of clarity in the BIG 4 gemstones:- 

Diamonds - High Clarity diamonds are more brilliant and desirable. Small-size diamonds of high quality are always in demand because inclusions are acceptable in larger-size diamonds. 

Emeralds - Inclusions are the most common in these green emerald stones and so they are most naturally acceptable. Hence, the emeralds with proper clearance and no inclusions are very expensive since they are the rarest. Their price can go up to millions per carat as well. 

Rubies & Sapphires - Ruby stone and Sapphires are precious gems and inclusions are pretty common in these gems as well. But along with the clarity, the colour of the gemstone is also important and can affect the price of these gems more than clarity. 

Further Reading - Inclusions as Nature's Signature: The Unique Identity of Sapphires.

Conclusion 

Gemstone clarity is the most significant factor that impacts the price of a gem. This is because it affects the beauty and appeal of the stone. To measure the clarity, there are gemstone clarity codes. These codes are used to show the level of the clarity of the stone. While buying a gemstone you should be aware of these codes and grading systems to make an informed decision and select your perfect stone at the right price.