Clarity enhanced diamonds are a fascinating option for those looking to maximize beauty and size without overextending their budget. But what exactly does “clarity enhanced” mean—and is it right for you? Let’s explore the process, the pros and cons, and what you should know before making a decision.
Understanding Clarity Enhancement
Clarity enhancement refers to a process that improves the visual appearance of a diamond by minimizing the visibility of internal flaws (inclusions). These are still real diamonds—usually natural—but they’ve been treated to look clearer than they originally were.
There are two main methods used:
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Fracture Filling: A glass-like substance fills internal cracks (feathers), making them less noticeable.
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Laser Drilling: A microscopic channel is drilled to remove dark inclusions, which may be filled afterward.
These treatments don’t alter the diamond’s structure—but they do change how light travels through it, making the gem appear more brilliant.
Where They Fall on the Clarity Scale
Clarity enhanced diamonds often start as lower clarity grades—such as SI2, I1, I2, or even I3—and are then treated to resemble stones with higher apparent clarity.
Clarity enhanced diamonds typically begin their journey at the lower end of the scale—often around I1 to I3, where inclusions are visible to the naked eye.
Through careful treatments, such as laser drilling or fracture filling, these inclusions are diminished, improving the diamond’s appearance. However, the original clarity grade remains part of the diamond’s history, and transparency about these enhancements is essential when purchasing.
At Little Treasury Jewelers, we help you navigate this scale with confidence—ensuring every diamond, enhanced or not, meets your standards of brilliance, beauty, and value.
Why Choose a Clarity Enhanced Diamond?
Here’s why many shoppers find them appealing:
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Better Value: You can often get a larger diamond for less.
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Improved Appearance: Treatments make imperfections nearly invisible to the naked eye.
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Natural Origins: These are still genuine, earth-mined diamonds—just improved.
What Are the Trade-Offs?
Before you choose clarity enhancement, here’s what you need to know:
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Not Graded by GIA or AGS: Clarity enhanced diamonds are usually certified by alternative labs.
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Heat Sensitivity: Fracture filling can be damaged by high heat (like during repairs or resizing).
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Resale Value: These diamonds typically have lower resale value than untreated stones.
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Transparency: Jewelers must disclose any clarity treatments.
At Little Treasury Jewelers, we’re proud to be transparent about every detail—so you always know exactly what you’re purchasing.
Can You Spot a Clarity Enhanced Diamond?
To the naked eye? Probably not. That’s the point. But under magnification, a trained professional may see:
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A faint flash of color in the filled fracture (commonly purple, orange, or green).
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Laser drill tunnels or tiny surface-reaching lines.
This is why choosing a trusted jeweler matters—we help you understand what you’re buying.
When Is It a Good Choice?
A clarity enhanced diamond may be perfect for:
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Budget-Conscious Shoppers looking for sparkle at a lower price point.
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Statement Pieces like earrings or pendants where extreme scrutiny isn’t common.
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Larger Diamonds where untreated versions in your budget would otherwise appear too flawed.
It might not be ideal if you plan to upgrade or resell later—or if you want the highest level of grading transparency.
Our Take at Little Treasury
At Little Treasury Jewelers, we believe that every diamond has a story—and every customer deserves to find the piece that speaks to them. Clarity enhanced diamonds offer a beautiful solution for many, especially when chosen thoughtfully.
We’ll help you compare your options side-by-side, explain everything clearly, and guide you toward the best fit for your style and goals.
Visit Us for Expert Guidance
Whether you’re exploring clarity enhanced diamonds or considering a natural, untreated gem, we invite you to experience our personalized, professional service.
Visit us in Gambrills, MD
Call us at (410) 721-7100
Monday–Friday: 10am–6pm | Saturday: 10am–5pm
Explore brilliance with confidence—at Little Treasury Jewelers.