Factors Affecting Inclusions in Gemstones

Size

Minute and minor inclusions are small in size and hardly visible. Obvious inclusions are easily observable. Prominent includes are hard to miss at all.

Contrast

Also known as color or relief, contrast refers to the difference between a gem and included crystal. Inclusions, based on their contrast levels, may be barely noticeable or a distraction.

Number

Inclusions may appear individually or in clusters and clouds. Keep in mind however that the degree of distraction carries more weight than the number of inclusions present.

Location

Inclusions located at the center of a gemstone or under the table are less desirable than those occurring near the girdle.

Grading System for Gemstone Clarity

VVS 1 and 2 Eye-Clean and Extra Fine Something more than 10x magnification eyepiece is necessary just to make the inclusions in a gemstone visible.

VS 1 and 2 Slightly Included and Fine Quality

Tiny pin-prick inclusions are visible under careful scrutiny but their presence does not affect the overall appearance of the gemstone.

S1 Moderately Included and Good Quality

Although the inclusions are easier to see, they still does not detract too much from the overall appearance of the gemstone.

S2 Moderately Included and Good to Medium-High Quality

When held closer than arms length, the gemstone will show inclusions that are easily visible.

Included 1, 2, and 3; Heavily to Severely Included and Low to Medium Quality

Inclusions here are either highly visible or worse, they virtually draw attention to themselves.

Levels of Transparency in a Gemstone

Transparent gemstones are those which you can see right through. Their internal features are clear and defined. Semi-transparent gemstones on the other hand may appear a bit hazy and blurry. Not all of its internal features may appear distinct.

The internal characteristics of translucent gemstones are vague and not that easy to see. Semi-translucent or semi-opaque gemstones, on the other hand, simply provide even greater challenge for the individual to see through it.o

Lastly, opaque gemstones do not show internal characteristics at all.

When evaluating the transparency and clarity of a gemstone, make sure to clean it first as dirt and oil can reduce transparency. Use a microscope if possible. Lastly, loose gemstones are easier to evaluate because settings can conceal inclusions located at the gemstones pavilion.

Once you are armed with the correct knowledge and head off to make you purchase, you will feel more at ease knowing you understand some of the important factors listed above. Parting with huge sums of money can be a scary affair but knowing you are spending wisely makes the experience a whole lot easier.

Keep in mind that you are within your rights to ask as many questions as you desire and can handle and study a gemstone as much as you wish before you purchase it.

Allen Jesson writes for several sites that specialize in Vintage Engagement Rings and Antique Engagement Rings Providing you with product reviews, information and guides that are essential when purchasing any type of Engagement Ring.

What You Need to Know About Buying Diamond Jewelry
If you plan to shop for diamond jewelry in the near future, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration. Some of the factors that will affect your decision are determined by the type of jewelry you choose to purchase. For exam...

All About Gems and Gemstones
Gemstones have been a favorite form of decoration for thousands of years. A gemstone or sometimes gem is a precious or semi-precious mineral and, when cut and polished, is used for jewelry among other uses. Some gems are not, strictly speaking, min...

Tips on Buying Gemstones
Gemstones have been sought after and treasured throughout history. They have been found in ruins dating several thousand years. They are valued as gifts symbolizing love. Generally, the price of any gemstone is determined by: size, cut, quality (co...

The Importance of Cut and Polish in Gemstones
Cut is one of the all-important 4Cs and is used not only to appraise diamonds but gemstones in general as well. Gemstones are often cut with regard to their size alone. But beautifully cut gemstones take their color into consideration as well.If you ...

How to Determine the Price Value of Color in Gemstones
When purchasing any type of gemstone it is important to understand how the price valuation is determined by the color. There are many different and important factors that establish this figure and it is wise to be armed with the knowledge before part...

What To Look For When Buying Gemstones
The desire for gemstones dates several years back through time. In the earlier times gemstones were found in areas of decay. They have always been considered a romantic gesture when received as a gift.The price of a gemstone is determined by the size...

What are Cabochons? How Are They Used in Jewellery?
En Cabochon is a term which describes a particular way of shaping a gemstone without faceting it. Gemstones which have been shaped into cabochons most commonly have a convex top and flat base. Cabochons are conventionally dome-shaped and are known...

Caring For Sterling Silver, Cubic Zirconia & Gemstone Jewelry
When it comes to caring for your fine jewelry, its important to choose something thats safe for your specific metal and/or gemstones. With so many jewelry cleaners and polishing cloths on the market, it can be difficult to know which is the best and...

Your Website Should Be Selling
It may come as some surprise to a traditionally off-line business that their website should be attracting new sales, or at least supporting the sales they have made. There is a common misconception that a website is more of a cost than an asset. When...

Jewelry Bracelets - A Gift For Everyone
Wearing jewelry on various parts of the body to enhance the beauty is a totally woman thing. But there are certain pieces of jewelry that men are more and more getting interested in, like the earrings and bracelets. Sparkling jewelry bracelets for ...