Every diamond carries its own internal fingerprint — inclusions formed as the stone grew deep within the earth. They help identify a diamond and influence both its clarity grade and its price. Here is what to know.
What are diamond inclusions?
Inclusions are natural internal features formed during a diamond's creation. They vary in size, shape and position. Some are visible only under magnification; others can be seen with the naked eye.
Common types of inclusions
- Pinpoint: tiny crystals that look like small dots under magnification — among the most common.
- Feather: thin, wispy fractures resembling feathers; impact depends on size and position.
- Cloud: clusters of microscopic crystals that can create a hazy look if large.
- Crystal: solid mineral crystals trapped inside, varying in size and colour.
- Knot: a crystal reaching the surface, which can affect clarity and durability.
How inclusions affect clarity
Clarity describes how free a diamond is of inclusions and blemishes. The GIA scale runs from Flawless (none visible at 10x magnification) to Included (visible to the naked eye). Fewer inclusions means a higher clarity grade — and a higher price.
Choosing the right diamond
Flawless diamonds command the highest prices, but stones with slight, eye-clean inclusions can offer excellent value without a visible difference. The right choice depends on your budget and how the stone will be set. Learn the fundamentals in our beginner's guide to GIA certificates and diamond types, or browse our certified diamonds.
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