‘Inclusions’ are microscopic imperfections in diamond structure that result from exposure to extreme pressure during formation. When a diamond has inclusions present it lowers the clarity of the diamond. These inclusions can be present inside the diamond since birth (at the time of formation), during manufacturing, or as a result of daily wear and tear. The more inclusions a diamond has, the lower the clarity and subsequently, the value. The highest possible clarity rating by the IGI is ‘IF’ for ‘internally flawless’, and ‘Fl’ – ‘Flawless’ if the diamond is being graded by GIA.
The actual inclusions are not usually visible without a magnification of at least 10x, and will not necessarily be listed on your diamond certificate, but for the inquiring minds who really like to know, here is a list of the most common inclusions:
1. Feather: A crack in the diamond
2. Crystal: This is a natural crystal inside a diamond.
3. Cavity: This is the broken part of the diamond.
4. Pinpoint: It is a very tiny crystal
5. Cloud: Collection of pinpoints
6. Knot: A crystal that was exposed to the surface and was cut in the manufacturing process.
7. Laser Drill Hole: A drill hole made as part of the clarity treatment process
8. Bearded Girdle: Series of tiny feathers in the girdle.
9. Chip: A tiny cavity
10. Indented Natural: A depression in a diamond left after manufacturing.
11. Percussion Mark: A tiny feather
12. Chipped Culet: A chip present in the culet.
Natural Inclusions Seen on a GIA Plot Map
