Definition

Clarity refers to the degree of internal quality of a gemstone. It is assessed based on the quantity and visibility of inclusions and fractures, in relation to the type of gemstone.

The higher the clarity of a gemstone, the greater its transparency. Clarity is also one of the parameters that has the strongest impact on the market value of a gemstone, alongside color, carat weight (ct), cut quality, and geographical origin.

The absence of international standards for colored stones

There is no standardized, universal chart for evaluating the clarity of colored stones. Only diamonds have a standardized clarity chart, established by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) in 1953. Gemological laboratories can therefore apply different charts, depending on their experience and practices. This explains why two identical gems may receive different clarity ratings depending on the laboratory responsible for the expertise.

Clarity classification systems also vary from country to country. You may have already encountered approximate designations such as AAA, A+, Top quality, etc.

Clarity and online sales

When buying gems online, consumers do not have direct access to the product and can only assess its characteristics visually through photos and/or videos. It is therefore essential to provide clear, transparent, and objective information on the quality criteria of the stone, particularly its degree of clarity. However, this information is not systematically provided by all market players. In our opinion, the indication of clarity is a fundamental part of consumer information when making a distance purchase.

At Arvernes-Gemmes, the clarity of our gemstones is assessed based on the GIA clarity scale, the international benchmark in gemology. Below, we explain how this scale works.

The GIA Clarity Charter for Colored Gemstones

The GIA is the global benchmark for gemological expertise and has a precise clarity grading system. Since some species and varieties naturally have more inclusions than others, the GIA clarity grading system first assesses the natural tendency of species and varieties to have inclusions before assigning a clarity grade.

Thus, the GIA has divided the different species and varieties of colored stones into three classes (three types/facies), each class having its own classification grid:

Type 1: species and varieties generally clean to the eye.
Type 2: species and varieties generally included.
Type 3: species and varieties almost always included.