Transparency and clarity are different things when talking about diamonds. Transparency is just the measure of a substance like glass or ice or diamonds to be “seen through.” The very high transparency of diamonds, coupled with their extreme hardness and high density make this rare, but naturally occurring crystal the valuable gem that it is. The refractive and reflective properties of the diamond also work hand in hand with the transparency to give a diamond its luster, fire, and brilliance. These gems worthy of only fine crafted, artistically designed precious metal as their setting make for a very unique prized possession: Diamond jewelry.
Clarity is a lack of flaws, a.k.a. inclusions. Think of the formation of a diamond similar to forming a candle from hot wax. Every time the string is dipped, another coating of wax is deposited on -making it thicker. Diamonds are formed this same way, layer upon layer. However, when conditions surrounding the diamond change, impurities can be introduced onto the surface of the diamond, and then layered over again and again with layers of clear crystal without impurity. This creates and encapsulates a zone of flaws in the diamond.
It is this imperfect layer that a diamond cutter tries to get around. He wants to cut away as many near flawless diamonds as possible from this rough stone. Many diamonds will have some inclusions. These indicate a genuine diamond from a Cubic Zirconia. As one of the five C’s: cut, color, clarity, carat, certificate –used to determine a diamonds quality and value, clarity is important. Also bear in mind that it needs the aid of a steady hand and a magnifier, to be seen. As important as clarity is, give color, carat, and especially cut, they weight it deserves as attributes that can be quickly and easily seen with the naked eye.
