Clarity enhanced diamonds are stones that have been altered using, one of the many techniques available, to remove any imperfections. When investing in these stones it is extremely important to understand how these differ from regular stones. It is rare to find a stone that has perfect clarity and theses imperfections in quality cannot be seen with the naked eye.

The terms used to describe the imperfections in a diamond are known as inclusions and blemishes. Inclusions are imperfections within the diamond such as small or large cracks, spots of varying colors and crystals either colored or uncolored.

Blemishes are small scratches and cuts on the exterior surface of a the stone. They can also be described as the unfinished surface of the diamond not being polished or cut, or the natural rough finish.

There are several techniques available to enhance the clarity of a stone and remove or decrease the appearance of these inclusions and blemishes. Laser drilling is used to tunnel into the gem and remove the inclusions. It is a permanent procedure and does not alter the strength of the stone.

Fracture filling uses a clear liquid substance that hardens and fills in any tiny cracks. It is not a permanent fix and heat, cleaning and sunlight can cause it the material to erode or darken in color.

These treatments that jewelers use to produce clarity enhanced diamonds are perfectly legal and is used by just about all jewelers. As a consumer you should be informed if the diamonds you are purchasing has been clarity enhanced.

Enhancing the clarity of a diamond may allow you to purchase a diamond that if not enhanced would probably cost significantly more. It is up to you to decide if you are comfortable with this type of diamond, keeping in mind that there is a risk of the treatment losing its appearance over time.

All jewelers may not be honest enough to disclose this information. So as a consumer your best protection is to educate yourself about clarity enhanced diamonds quality before your purchase and remember before you actually purchase your diamond you can always get an appraisal by a third party as a second opinion, just to be sure.