Inclusions In Diamonds- The Most Misunderstood Components Of Diamonds?

Posted by Hari Krishna

November 18, 2022

Diamonds are among the most precious gems found on Earth. People often connect them with brilliance, royalty, luxury, and strength. However, diamonds also contain inclusions, and many people misunderstand this natural feature.

 

Some buyers assume that inclusions reduce a diamond’s beauty. In reality, inclusions are a natural part of every diamond.

 

In this blog, we explain what diamond inclusions are, the different types of inclusions, and which inclusions are better to have in your diamond.

What Are Inclusions in Diamonds?

Diamond inclusions are small internal characteristics formed under extreme heat and pressure during the diamond’s natural creation process.

 

You can compare inclusions to birthmarks in humans. Almost every natural diamond contains them. In fact, finding a flawless diamond is extremely rare.

 

These natural marks make every diamond unique. They add character and confirm the stone’s natural origin.

 

Gemologists usually detect inclusions under 10X magnification. Most inclusions are invisible to the naked eye.

 

In addition, inclusions help experts identify whether a diamond is natural or lab-grown. They also influence clarity grading.

 

diamond inclusions

 

Types of Diamond Inclusions

 

Surface-Related Inclusions

Bearding

Bearding appears as hair-like lines near the girdle. These lines often form during the cutting process.

Chip

A chip is a small opening on the surface. Accidental knocks or wear usually cause it.

Cavity

A cavity is a larger surface opening. It can collect dirt and become more visible over time.

Indented Natural

This occurs when part of the original rough diamond remains on the polished stone.

 

Internal Inclusions

Pinpoints

Pinpoints are tiny crystal inclusions visible under magnification.

Needle

Needles are long, thin inclusions. When they appear in clusters, they may affect clarity.

Cloud

Clouds are groups of tiny inclusions close together. Large clouds can reduce light performance.

Feather

Feathers look like small internal fractures. If they reach the surface, they may affect durability.

Crystal

Crystals are minerals trapped during formation. Sometimes they are visible without magnification.

Twinning Wisps

These form when different inclusions mix together during growth.

Knot

Knots are raised crystal areas that reach the surface.

 

Which Diamond Inclusions Are Better?

All natural diamonds contain inclusions. Therefore, you should not reject a diamond simply because it has one.

 

However, avoid large cavities, chips, knots, or surface-reaching feathers. These may affect durability.

 

On the other hand, small pinpoints, light feathers, and fine needles usually do not impact beauty. If they appear only under 10X magnification, they remain harmless.

 

How Do Inclusions Affect Diamond Value?

Only about 2–3% of diamonds are flawless. Most diamonds contain inclusions. However, diamonds with fewer and less visible inclusions carry higher value.

A-or-B

For example, two diamonds may share the same carat, cut, color, and clarity grade. Yet their value can differ based on inclusion placement.

If the inclusion sits near the edge, it remains less noticeable. If it appears at the center, it becomes more visible and reduces value.

Natural Diamonds: A True Gift of Nature

Nature forms diamonds over millions of years. During this long journey, natural marks develop inside the stone.

At Hari Krishna Exports, we celebrate these natural characteristics. Our team follows strict quality control to ensure only the finest diamonds reach our customers.

We ethically source and responsibly manage our diamonds, ranging from 0.18 to 50+ carats.

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