After the slightly imperfect stones come those that are frankly imperfect. Frankly imperfect stones have rather large or numerous flaws and visible carbon spots. Imperfect stones imperfections can sometimes be spotted by a normal observer without a glass! Frankly imperfect stones are great for people who want big stones but do not want to pay the money for fine gems. Frankly imperfect stones give the buyer more bang for the buck. At a little bit of distance the stones may appear brilliant.



It may be a better idea for purchasers to buy better grade diamonds. If someday you have to dispose of your diamonds they will almost always be appraised by those who are trained to detect flaws and bad color. The resale value of a fine stone will always yield better money than a larger more imperfect one. Large imperfect diamonds sell, but they rarely ever sell themselves. Fine diamonds will almost always find a buyer if they are offered a little under the market price.

A few words as to the best means of detecting flaws in diamonds may not be out of place. You must always possess a good lens. A good lens is key for detecting flaws and color. A good light is also a necessity. The inspector needs a light that falls freely upon it. Diamond forceps should always be used to hold the stones. A persons fingers are to big and clumsy. Peoples fingers also soil stones and make them dull and dirty.

It is extremely important to always examine a stone unset, the mounting may hide some imperfections. Many diamond owners and dealers have found imperfections in set stones months after ownership and examination. To properly observe a diamond one must start with the back of the stone, first dimming it with the breath. Often diamond cutters will often leave flaws so they are not visible from the front, but they are often very evident from the back. This is why examinations usually begin from the back. If no flaws are evident, examine the stone slowly and carefully through each rear facet. Then turn the stone over, dim it, and check the front of the stone for flaws. If none are seen, look through each of the front facets turning the stone slowly.

While examining a stone make sure that any apparent defects are not actually small spots of dirt sticking to the opposite surface. It is also very important not to mistake a reflection of thick spots on the girdle for flaws. Some times stones are cut too shallow. These stones will often times show reflections through the table. These stones are less brilliant, and also far less desirable. These stones may seem imperfect when actually they may be perfect in crystallization, although not in make.

If no defects are discerned, rest the eye for a few moments and inspect the diamond once again. This time look for small specks and feathers. Be on the lookout for small reflections on the surface as well as on the interior of the stone, as cracks that have reached the surface may be discerned.

Sometimes diamonds have knots, or spots where part of the diamond does not go with the grain. These spots are very hard to polish correctly and often times cannot be made completely flat. It is essential to find this type of flaw if it exists. This type of defect is very hard to spot. Often times it will never be noticed by the general public, and sometimes not even by the dealer. When a valuable gem is in question, and time is not of the essence, save a final decision till after a second thorough examination on another day.