Every diamond is unique. During its crystallisation — whether unfolding deep underground over millions of years or in a laboratory over several weeks — the stone acquires internal characteristics of its own, comparable to fingerprints. These characteristics, called inclusions, are a testament to its formation.
Inclusions can take many forms: clouds (diffuse clusters of tiny crystals), crystals of another mineral trapped inside, internal fractures, black or white pinpoints. Depending on their nature, number, position and size, they may or may not affect the brilliance of the stone.
The GIA Clarity Scale
The GIA has established a clarity scale that classifies diamonds according to the visibility and significance of their inclusions:
- FL (Flawless) and IF (Internally Flawless): No inclusions visible, even under 10× magnification. Exceptionally rare.
- VVS1 and VVS2 (Very Very Small): Extremely difficult to detect, even under magnification, by an expert gemmologist.
- VS1 and VS2 (Very Small): Minor inclusions, difficult to see under 10× magnification, invisible to the naked eye.
- SI1 and SI2 (Small Inclusions): Inclusions visible under magnification, sometimes perceptible to the naked eye.
- I1, I2, I3 (Imperfect): Inclusions visible to the naked eye, potentially affecting brilliance and durability.
Origine Paris's Choice: VS Minimum
At Origine Paris, we select only VS minimum diamonds — Very Small Inclusions. This threshold guarantees that all our stones are flawless to the naked eye, presenting only minute inclusions undetectable without a loupe.
Our diamonds are IGI-certified (International Gemological Institute), which evaluates each stone individually and attests to its clarity with precision. This certification accompanies every diamond above 0.50 carat that we use in our jewellery.