Diamond clarity is one of the most important factors in retail jewelry, and it is perhaps the most sought after by customers. Nowadays, consumers are looking for the best clarity of any diamond with a specific color and cut. But why is Diamond Clarity so important? The higher the diamond clarity grade, the fewer inclusions, or internal flaws, a diamond will have. In this article, we will be taking a look at the most sought-after diamonds, IF (Internally Flawless) clarity diamonds.
What are IF (Internally Flawless) clarity diamonds?
Internally flawless (IF) clarity diamonds are diamonds that have no inclusions visible to the naked eye. When inspected through a gemological microscope at 10x magnification but has some blemishes on the surface. The term ‘flawless’ is used to describe diamonds that have no inclusions even when viewed through a jeweler’s loupe at 10x magnification.
IF clarity diamonds have surface blemishes such as tiny pits, scuff marks, feathers, and chips. That can be polished out and does not affect their appearance. The GIA clarity scale groups IF with FL diamonds. Because of their high clarity, IF clarity diamonds are often treated to make them look Flawless. The only difference between an FL and IF diamond is the presence of blemishes in IF diamonds.
The terms ‘Flawless’ and ‘Internally Flawless’ are often used interchangeably when it comes to diamonds. In fact, many people don’t even know that they are technically two different clarity grades.
That said, the difference between them is absolutely minuscule and is basically the equivalent of comparing the deliciousness of a perfect chocolate cupcake with another perfect chocolate cupcake. They are both internally flawless and ridiculously expensive.
What Makes a Diamond IF?
Often these flaws are due to sloppy polishing during the manufacturing stage for example some tiny polishing lines or tool marks visible on the surface of the diamond. Which then impacts the grade it can be given. In many cases, these IF diamonds could be polished further so as to erase the blemishes, but that would mean losing very valuable carat weight in the process.
So, is it worth forking out your hard-earned cash on an ‘Internally Flawless’ diamond? Let’s see. Below are two diamonds with identical specs, save for the clarity grades; As you can see, there is a $5,300 difference in price between these two gems, and it all comes down to clarity. Bearing in mind these stones are under 10x magnification (so in real life the differences would be even less noticeable), do you think there is $5,300 worth of extra quality here?
This is an extreme example and in most cases, an SI1 will be inferior to an IF. I use this example simply to show you how little difference that extra clarity grade can make to the look of a stone, and how big a difference it can make to your wallet.
IF Clarity diamond pricing
IF (Internally Flawless) clarity diamonds are usually very expensive, due to their high clarity. This is because the high cost of IF diamonds comes from the intense level of scrutiny they require. Being at the top of the clarity range, these diamonds are priced higher than other diamonds below the scale. They only come second to Flawless diamond. Though the IF and FL diamond are on the same level of clarity scale, FL diamonds are priced higher than IF diamonds due to their rarity and lack of blemishes.
Which is better, FL or IF diamond?
Both are high-clarity diamonds. The main difference between the FL and IF diamonds is the presence of blemishes in IF diamonds which are hidden from the naked eye. Since both have no inclusion, they offer good value for the money. However, it is difficult to find a diamond without any flaws. This makes it better to go for an IF diamond than FL one since the price differs but the clarity grade is the same. People go for flawless diamonds for status and emotion. Internally Flawless and Flawless (FL) diamonds have the same clarity grade, and if your budget allows you to go for either. Then the choice is really up to you.
Imagine a glass of wine. That glass has a few smudges on the outside and looks a little less than perfect. If I poured some red wine into this particular glass, the smudges might impair my view and enjoyment of that ruby elixir (although let’s face it, it probably wouldn’t).
This is what is meant by the term Internally Flawless. Although the inside of the diamond is technically ‘Flawless,’ there are very, very tiny blemishes on the surface of the diamond that hold it back from getting the ‘Flawless’ stamp of approval.
While buying a top-tier clarity grading might seem like the best way to guarantee a beautiful stone, paying for an FL or IF grading is money poorly spent. Here’s why: no one will be able to tell that it’s an IF or FL diamond. You can find eye-clean stones at lower grades, like VS2 and SI1 graded diamonds.
When you’re looking for a diamond that’s truly flawless, look for an IF or FL clarity grade. Internally flawless (IF) diamonds are free of inclusions under 10x magnification, but they may contain some surface blemishes. A flawless (FL) diamond shows no inclusions at 10x, and they’re very rare—fewer than 1% of all diamonds receive an FL clarity rating.
Is IF diamond worth it?
IF clarity diamonds are usually very expensive because of the high degree of scrutiny. The assumed cost of an Internally Flawless Diamond is almost equivalent to Flawless diamonds. This is a debatable question as most people would better spend the high cost on a high-cut diamond than high clarity. A better deal will be to have a lower clarity diamond, say VS2, with a high cut. Since it will not affect the appearance of the diamond. If you want an IF clarity diamond, then be careful with the cut as a poor cut will affect the brilliance and the sparkle of a diamond.
Where to buy IF clarity diamonds
If you are looking for an IF clarity diamond then you will have to look online for a reputed online diamond seller. www.rarecarat.com is the safest, smartest online diamond marketplace. We deal with both natural and lab-grown diamonds and engagement ring settings. Our prices are affordable, and you can rest assured that you are getting a bargain. We assure our customers of 100% satisfaction and customer service. We are ready to serve you from order processing and inspecting your diamond to be authentic before shipment. All our diamonds have been inspected and graded by professional gemologists. Who work hand in hand with you to get the best diamond for your budget. All our diamonds are guaranteed to be high quality and genuine. We also offer 30-day returns, 60-day resizing, and a lifetime warranty on the diamonds. You can also contact me for further queries and inquiries.
conclusion
Internally flawless (IF) clarity diamonds have no inclusions, and they have an exceptional sparkle and brilliance. People who are looking for high clarity and rare diamonds need to look online at www.rarecarat.com. A one-stop place where all types of diamond deals can be found.
