Gemstone Clarity

 

 

As with diamonds, “clarity” for colored gemstones describes the internal quality of a gem. However, unlike diamonds, colored gemstones are expected to be included to some degree (e.g., peridots, sapphires, and tourmalines), or to a heavy degree (e.g., emeralds and rubies).

 

 

 

 

Because colored gemstones are expected to have inclusions, such inclusions do not greatly affect a stone’s value. Colored gemstones with higher natural clarity tend to be aquamarine, blue topaz, citrine, and tanzanite. A flawless or near-flawless colored gemstone would often be prohibitively expensive; the best valued gemstones are those that are slightly or moderately included.

Modern science has helped many colored gems become more clear through a number of clarity enhancement treatments that can make a remarkable difference in the gem’s appearance and that can make a beautiful and clear stone available at an affordable price.

 

Clarity enhancement treatments improve only the appearance of the gem, and generally do not impact its inherent quality or value.