A clarity-enhanced diamond is a natural diamond with inclusions visible to the naked eye. Through modern techniques, however, these inclusions were “filled” to make them less visible. The enhancement process that fills the large inclusions on a diamond has the same optical methods as a flawless diamond. This means that light can travel through the stone as if the inclusions were not there at all. This will give a lower-quality diamond the same sparkle and shine as a diamond of a comparable grade.
Different Ways That Diamonds Are Enhanced
Diamonds are one of the most precious and sought-after gemstones in the world. However, not all diamonds are created equal, and many undergo enhancements to improve their appearance or value. In this article, we will explore some of the different ways that diamonds are enhanced, and the pros and cons of each method.
Fracture Filling Enhancement
There are two main processes by which diamonds are clarity enhanced. The first is fracture filling. This process injects the diamond with a glass-like resin. The resin will flow into gaps, cracks, and other inclusions, filling and sealing the small cracks. This will make the inclusions appear naked to the human eye, as if by magic. This then makes the diamond part natural and part plastic.
In some cases, this does not remove all imperfections, but in theory, it should. Sometimes, it may give the inclusions a glassy plastic stream filled with air bubbles. Sometimes small cracks or fractures may have a white scratch or web-like appearance.
Laser Drilling
This process uses heat or injects chemicals into the diamond so that whatever inclusions are more of a discoloration, it makes them less visible. By using a laser drilling process, thin white lines or tunnels may appear since they do not follow the diamond’s natural growing pattern.
Many times, when diamonds are clarity enhanced, they are first laser drilled, followed by a fracture fill. When diamonds are enhanced with laser drilling, they can also black or discolored diamonds to appear white again.
The Cost of Clarity Enhanced Diamonds
Since the clarity levels on the clarity enhanced diamonds are technically lower, this gives the overall diamond a lower quality value. This means that a diamond that is clarity enhanced will be lower compared to any non-enhanced diamonds.
With the price of a clarity enhanced diamond being cheaper than a higher-quality grade diamond, this means that you can now afford a larger center diamond at a similar quality-grade appearance. The clarity enhancement process does not affect any other property like color, cut, or carat weight.
Conclusion
Come into 316 Jewelry and Watch Boutique for all of your diamond needs.No matter what style of diamond you’re looking for, we have the variety that you need. If you need watches, fine jewelry, or any repairs, call us for an appointment so we can help you with all your jewelry needs.
