Diamond Inclusions are also known as flaws or blemishes and are a not so uncommon occurrence that a diamond possesses. Though they typically mean something which diminishes the sparkle and shine of a diamond, most of them can be pretty negligible. But, there are some special and scary ones there too. Those of which can straightaway make a diamond look ugly or worthless.
In this particular context, we will be discussing such worst types of diamond inclusions. So that the ones reading this will be able to know about them and avoid such diamonds. Which contain any one of these, at any cost.
Before pointing out the worst possible diamond inclusions that are present, let us point out some conditions. One must be aware, that the severity of the inclusions straight away depends on the clarity grading that a diamond has; hence, one can be free of such kinds of worries. If they opt for diamonds having high clarity and cut gradings. Now back to the topic, the worst possible diamond inclusions are as follows
Diamond Chipping
Regarded as the worst possible inclusion that a diamond or any other gem might have; a chip is something that can be described as shallow grazes or opening over the surface of the diamond. Due to impact on the culet, girdle edge or any facet junction of the stone. Chipping not only makes the stone look bad and worn out, but it also weakens the total structural integrity.
Once chipped, there always remains a possibility for the chip to spread or grow if any other impact falls on the stone; shortly. This is why chipped diamonds are often sold in pawn shops, trade-ins and used diamond shops with huge discount rates upon them. But, it is still suggested not to go for any kind of chipped diamond. As no one will value and praise such a diamond as they would for an unchipped and quality one.
But still, if it is about an extremely low budget diamond one is looking for. They may buy a chipped diamond but the jeweler needs to be extra cautious. While they set the stone as even a tiny bit of pressure or impact might just break the diamond in halves!!
Inclusions in the Top or Center of the Diamond
Such kinds of diamonds are also an absolute no go. If a diamond has a “dead” center or inclusions at the very top part of the diamond; then no amount of polish of the stone can minimize such flaws. And one shall be constantly worried about the “nail head” or “fish-eye” in the stone. It can never be improvised and such inclusion will be visible to almost everyone. Who sets their eye on such diamond even for a second. Moreover, the overall brilliance and sparkle of such a diamond also get reduced vastly.
It is thus highly recommended to skip such kinds of diamonds. And if possible go for diamonds that are eye clean and have inclusions deep inside at minimum levels.
Laser Drill Holes
A diamond that has been artificially improvised shows this particular inclusion in them generally. The process consists of drilling a hole or tunnel from the surface of the stone to reach the inclusion that is present inside the stone to minimize the crystal inclusions present inside it. The holes are then injected with filler materials and treated with acid baths so that they look fresh and clean. But, the networks of holes in such diamonds block the path of light both from entering and leaving the stone, reducing the scintillation and fire quality overall.
Such diamonds are not at all recommended and it is suggested to look for alternatives. As these stones are “masked up” and overly priced. And one might just pay up for the stone and realize the mistake afterward.
Black Carbon Spots Inside
Such kinds of diamonds stand way out in terms of inclusion severity. As these carbon spots look like pieces of pepper that are trapped inside the diamond and look very ugly. These spots are carbon minerals that did not crystallize properly during the stone’s formation process. Diamonds with I1, I2 and I3 clarity (sometimes even SI2 clarity) show these inclusions. These types of diamonds are also termed as low-grade diamonds and are not looked highly up to.
If the budget is the primary issue, one may go for diamonds with white carbon spots as they are generally white and harder to notice. A white-colored diamond having white carbon spots can also mask away them very easily.
Cavity Imperfections
Cavity diamond inclusions are simply holes on the surface of the diamond. Which generally get created when the diamonds are impacted or get cracked from inside. Due to any mineral inclusion present. Such diamonds do not provide enough sparkle and luster they should be providing and the cavities can be felt if one touches or examines the diamonds surface a bit.
Such diamonds are also excluded from the viable categories as one will constantly be worried whether someone will notice the cavities if they ask for a look of the diamond or not. Better, go for alternatives as there are so many varieties of affordable and good looking options in the market.
Crystal Diamond Inclusions
Such inclusions are form when small crystals of minerals get embedded or trapped inside the diamond during their formation or growth process. These crystals may be of varieties of shapes, sizes, and colors. Also if such inclusions are positioned poorly with the stone. Then chances are that the diamond will double or triple the no of inclusion inside. As the image of the crystal will also get reflect along with the light that gets reflected from it.
Though suggested not to go for diamonds having such flaws or inclusions, if one is tight on the budget; it is advise to avoid the black or dark-color inclusions from the diamond. Lighter; more preferably white colored crystals may still be chosen as long as the inclusions are not visible directly or when taking the clean eye factor in taking.
Now, if one asks which of the above are the worst possible inclusions that a diamond can have, then we would be prioritizing the first four. The thing is; regarding the inclusion factor; one should always keep some general guidelines in mind. If such is done, one shall hold better chances in purchasing a good enough diamond decent clarity and sparkle:
- The inclusions should not make the diamond look hazy, dull, or snatch it from its brilliance.
- Inclusions should not be visible at a first glance or in other words, one should keep the “eye clean” factor in their mind.
- The inclusions should not in any way pose a threat to the durability or longevity of the diamond.
- There are a huge number of choices and alternatives. Hence one should not decide to purchase just by going through a few numbers of options.
That’s all!