Types of Diamond Flaws and Diamond Value
As you may have guessed, diamond flaws and inclusions generally affect the value of the diamond negatively. Surprisingly though, not all types of diamond flaws lower the value of the stone, it really depends on the specific type of flaw.
Diamond flaws fall into two major categories: Natural and man made.
Natural Flaws
Natural diamond flaws occur during the formation period of the diamond. Some natural flaws don't affect the value of the diamond, while others do.
Naturals
A natural is an unpolished surface of the diamond. Naturals are left behind by the diamond polisher and will not affect the value of a diamond if the natural is left very close to the girdle or on the girdle itself. One of the main reasons why a natural doesn't affect the value of the stone is because they represent the highly skilled craftsmanship on behalf of the diamond cutter. When a natural is left behind, it means the cutter is skilled to cut the least amount of diamond. This preserves more of the natural diamond's original carat weight, which gives the diamond a higher market value overall.
Naturals are impossible to see with the naked eye and very difficult to spot, even with a loupe.
Carbon
When diamonds are formed, sometimes not all the carbon turns into stone or crystallizes. The result is a tiny black dot inside the stone. For the most part, these flaws are extremely rare.
Clouds
Clouds are formed from pinpoint inclusions--one of the most common types of diamond flaws. When a diamond has a cluster of three or more pinpoint inclusions, it forms what is referred to as a cloud. A small cloud may not affect the diamond clarity, so it won't affect the value. A large cloud, on the other hand, will affect the clarity and depending on how cloudy the diamond appears, dramatically affect the market value of the stone.
Needles
Needles are long thin strands of diamond crystals within the stone. The affect needles have on the value of the diamond is largely dependent on its size and its color.
Knots
Diamond knots are just like the knots you see on trees. Knots occur when diamond crystals rise to the surface of the diamond and create a bump. These are considered serious flaws as they indicate weakness in the structure of the diamond, so it may be prone to breakage.
Man Made Flaws
Man made flaws generally occur during the cutting and polishing of the stone.
Cavities
Cavities happen when the diamond cutter cuts away a larger diamond crystal. When this crystal is cut away from the stone, a cavity or hole is left behind.
Chips
When a small piece of the diamond breaks off from the stone, it is referred to as a chip. Chips are generally caused when the diamond is put into its setting and can be avoided. However, small chips aren't fatal flaws in diamonds, as they can be treated. Be warned though, the stone may have to be recut, which may affect the total carat weight and therefore, the market value of the diamond. Chips, however, may be able to be used as accents for a more elaborate ring setting.
Purchasing Your Diamond
When purchasing a diamond, think of it as an investment. After all, diamonds are a scarce resource. They are also tangible assets, highly liquid, and historically, almost always, increase in value. Just like any other investment that involves a large initial cash outlay, you want to purchase your diamonds from a reputable jeweler. Finally, beware of diamond deals that sound a bit too good to be true and if you're buying a diamond from an online auction site, do some through research on the seller before bidding.
