Diamond shape guide
Diamond clarity chart
IF: Internally flawless
No inclusions, only blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10x magnification.
VVS1–VVS2: Very very slightly included
Inclusions are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification.
VS1–VS2: Very slightly included
Inclusions are clearly visible under 10x magnification, but can be characterised as minor.
SI1–SI2: Slightly included
Inclusions are noticeable to a skilled grader using 10x magnification.
Cut: All diamonds supplied either ‘very good’ or ‘excellent’ cut, with faint or no fluorescence.
Diamond colour chart
While there are differences in colour between D, E, and F diamonds, they can be detected only by a gemologist in side-by-side comparisons and rarely by the untrained eye.
D, E, F diamonds should only be set in white gold or platinum. Yellow gold reflects colour, negating the diamond’s colourless effect.
While containing traces of colour G-J diamonds are suitable for platinum or white gold settings, which would normally betray any hint of colour in a diamond. Because I & J diamonds are more common than the higher grades they tend to be lower cost and great value for money.
The Gemological Institute of America provides more detailed information on the the 4Cs of diamond quality:
Diamond prices
What are “inclusions”?
Inclusions refer to small imperfections within a diamond. Below are magnified photos of the different types of inclusions within a diamond.
