Diamond Information
Learn more about how we only source the highest quality diamonds for your dream pieces.
Hand Selected
At Gold N Gems, all our gemstones are personally selected by Danny, who appraises them and selects them with a jeweller’s eye. Have any questions about what diamond is best for you? Danny will gladly chat with a client about every aspect unique to stones, diamonds, and your custom pieces.
Clarity Grading Scales
The Flawless Grade (FL)
FL is used to describe diamonds in which a skilled observer, under favourable lighting conditions, cannot see any flaws or surface blemishes after thorough examination with a binocular microscope at 10 power magnification or with a 10 power corrected loupe. Small extra facets on the pavillion near the girdle, not visible when viewed from above, are permitted as are small naturals when they are confined to the girdle and do not flatten the girdle outline. Internal graining is permitted provided it does not draw any colour or texture and is not observable through the crown.
The Internally Flawless Grade (IF)
IF describes diamonds which have no internal characteristics observable under the same conditions as described in FL, but have minor surface blemishes that are confined to the surface. Grain lines are permitted provided they are not thick or numerous and do not detract from the beauty of the stone. Internal graining is permitted, provided it does not draw colour or texture.
The VVS Grades (Very, Very Slightly Included)
VVS is used to describe diamonds which have very, very, small inclusions, which are difficult for a skilled observer to see under the conditions as described in FL and IF. Coloured or textured graining is permitted, provided it is not observable through the crown.
The VS Grade (Very Slightly Included)
VS is used to describe diamonds with very small inclusions ranging from difficult to somewhat easy to observe under 10 power magnification and favourable lighting conditions.
The SI Grades (Slightly Included)
SI is used to describe stones with small inclusions which are easy or very easy to see under 10 power magnification and proper lighting. Occasionally, inclusions in the SI category are visible to the unaided eye.
The I Grades (Included)
I is used to describe stones with medium or large inclusions which are obvious to the unaided eye under favourable lighting conditions.
Contact Us!
Have a question or looking to book an appointment? Get in touch with us using the form, or give us a call at the number below. We’d love to hear from you!
goldngems@shaw.ca
(604) 430-4278
4950 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC V5H 2E2
Canada