I2 Diamond Clarity – How Good is I2 Clarity for Diamonds
[ad_1]
What does I2 clarity mean?
I2 diamond clarity represents the second-lowest clarity grade available to diamonds. I2 stands between the I3 diamond clarity grade (lowest) and the I1 diamond clarity grade (better).
Diamonds graded I2 clarity feature noticeable inclusions, easily seen by the eye. At the same time, I2 clarity diamonds have more life and sparkle than lower clarity I3 diamonds.
Diamond grading chart showing all of the diamond clarity grades available.
How does clarity affect a diamond?
In no uncertain terms, clarity affects the beauty of a diamond. Numerous inclusions reduce light passing through the stone. Many I2 clarity diamonds carry more risk of breakage or chipping, especially when inclusions break the surface of the diamond.
Some I2 diamonds feature distinctive marks within the diamond. Many such inclusions are more apparent due to their black colour. In contrast, white feathers make less impact. Moreover, even dispersion of white inclusions makes more sense when choosing this clarity of the diamond. For this reason, we routinely photograph diamonds for clients unable to visit to enable them to form a much better appreciation for certain diamonds.
How much do I2 diamonds cost?
Cost depends on three additional factors. The size, colour (whiteness) and cut of the diamond. But, as a guide, I2 clarity diamonds fetch far lower prices than better clarity diamonds. As a guide, expect to pay between £400 – £4000 based on 0.50 carats to 1.00 carats respectively for a decent whiteness with a very good cut grade.
Selecting a lower colour diamond of this grade reduces the cost even further. Reduce the cut grade and prices fall significantly for the same size of the diamond.
From experience clarity I2 colour HI work well together. H-I colour describes a commercial whiteness for diamonds, selected by many retailers. They are less expensive than whiter diamonds but lack the noticeable ‘yellow’ tinge associated with lower colour stones. H-I describes a midway assessment between both colour grades.
I2 and P2 diamond clarity grades
Many jewellers and diamond merchants refer to I (included) 2 diamonds as P2 clarity. This term means spotted, or picked from the French word Piqué. Both terms mean the same thing.
I2 vs I3 clarity diamonds
If you’re unsure about the difference between I3 and I2 clarity, we’ve added a comparison below to show the difference. As you can see, the right (I3) diamond features a greater density of inclusions within the diamond. Also, a reduced clarity as a result of the additional marks.
I2 and I3 clarity diamonds compared.
Where to purchase a diamond of this grade?
Despite our standard colour and clarity (G SI1) we source and supply all clarity grades including I2 clarity. Please contact a member of our team for more help and guidance and a list of available diamonds.
In addition to natural diamonds, we now supply a wide range of lab-grown diamonds. Lab-grown options cost approximately 60% less than natural diamonds of the same specifications. For this reason, consider lab-grown instead of a lower clarity natural diamond for your budget.
About Mark JohnsonMark attended Liverpool University and went on to pursue a career in the diamond industry. After more than a decade working in polished diamonds, Mark moved to the Isle of Wight where he launched Serendipity Diamonds. He works most days from their busy Ryde showroom, photographing jewellery and writing for the Serendipity Diamonds website.
[ad_2]
Source link
