Are Clarity Enhanced Diamonds Real?
Clarity enhanced diamonds can be a good option for couples looking for a budget-friendly diamond that still has the lustrous look of a natural diamond. But are they the real deal? We'll give you the pros and cons of clarity enhanced diamonds compared to their untreated natural counterparts.
What Are Clarity Enhanced Diamonds?
Clarity enhanced diamonds are diamonds with blemishes and inclusions (imperfections) that undergo specific treatments to improve their clarity. The goal is, by the end of the treatment, to remove any blemishes and inclusions, improving the diamond's overall clarity on the clarity scale. There are two primary methods for clarity enhancing a diamond:
Fracture Filling
This is the most common method for treating a diamond. Using this method, jewelers fill the diamond's inclusion cavities with a microscopic amount of silicon and other compounds, mimicking the refractive appearance of the diamonds. The filling makes these "feather" type inclusions look nearly invisible.
Laser Drilling
This clarity enhancement treatment is used to burn microscopic holes in naturally formed black carbon inclusions. Once the laser opens up the inclusion, the diamond is deep boiled to remove the dark material and clear out the inclusion.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Clarity Enhanced Diamonds?
There are some things to consider when purchasing clarity enhanced diamonds. We've compiled a list of pros and cons to help you determine if purchasing an enhanced diamond is right for you.
Pros:
- More affordable-typically 30-50% less than non-enhanced diamonds
- Higher carat weight for any budget
- Significant savings for a similar grade non-treated diamond
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May appear to have the same visible appearance as untreated diamonds
Cons:
- Lower value than non-enhanced diamonds
- The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) does not grade laser-drilled or fracture-filled diamonds
- Extreme heat can damage filling treatments
- Fillings can cause diamonds to appear cloudy or hazy over time
- Must notify your jeweler when cleaning, repairing or resizing to avoid damaging the diamond
The Bottom Line
If you are looking for an impressive-looking diamond at an affordable price, clarity enhanced diamonds may be the perfect fit for you. Keep in mind that too many tunnels from removing internal inclusions can affect the overall sturdiness of the diamond. Also, fracture fillings are not permanent, so notify your jeweler when you bring your diamond in for cleaning. If you have further questions about whether a clarity enhanced diamond is a good fit for you, contact us! We would love to help you find the perfect diamond for your special occasion.