Feather in a Diamond: What It Means & Its Impact on Clarity
A feather in a diamond refers to a type of inclusion that resembles a small crack or fracture within the stone. It is a common term used in diamond grading, and it plays an important role in the diamond’s clarity.
What is a Feather?
Feathers are essentially internal cracks or fractures that can occur naturally during the diamond’s formation or from external pressure after the diamond is mined.
The term “feather” is used because the inclusion often looks like a branching or “feathery” structure under magnification.
Feather in Diamond Clarity Grading
The presence of a feather can affect a diamond’s clarity grade, but not all feathers are equal. Here’s how a feather impacts grading:
Clarity Grade Description Impact of Feather
Flawless (FL) No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. No feathers.
Internally Flawless (IF) No inclusions visible under 10x magnification; only minor blemishes. No feathers.
Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1, VVS2) Minute inclusions that are very difficult to detect under 10x magnification. Feathers may be present but hard to find.
Very Slightly Included (VS1, VS2) Minor inclusions visible under 10x magnification. Feathers may be visible but typically not easily seen with the naked eye.
Slightly Included (SI1, SI2) Inclusions visible under 10x magnification and possibly to the naked eye. Feathers may be visible to the naked eye in lower clarity grades.
Included (I1, I2, I3) Inclusions visible to the naked eye, affecting transparency and brilliance. Feathers likely visible and may impact the diamond’s appearance.
How Do Feathers Affect a Diamond’s Appearance?
Location of the Feather:
Near the centre of the diamond can have a more noticeable impact on brilliance.
On the edges or girdle may not be as visible and have less impact on appearance.
Size of the Feather:
Small feathers may be negligible and have little effect on the diamond’s brilliance or beauty.
Larger feathers may disrupt the diamond’s light performance or cause a visible flaw.
Transparency:
Some feathers can cause a cloudy or milky appearance, impacting the diamond’s overall sparkle.
Are Feathers Dangerous?
Feathers can affect the structural integrity of a diamond, especially if they are large or extend to the surface. However, many diamonds with small feathers are still quite strong and durable. A feather that reaches the girdle (outer edge) or surface can make the diamond more vulnerable to breaking or chipping if not handled carefully.
How to Minimize the Impact of Feathers
Check the Location: Ensure the feather is not near the surface or the girdle, as these areas are more likely to be prone to damage.
Choose Smaller Feathers: Opt for diamonds with small, isolated feathers that do not significantly impact clarity.
Magnification Review: Always inspect the diamond under 10x magnification to assess the feather’s size and impact.
Are Feathers Always a Dealbreaker?
Not necessarily. Many diamonds with small, well-placed feathers still retain their brilliance, especially if the feathers are near the centre or on the pavilion and not on the surface. If the feather is not visible to the naked eye, it often does not affect the overall aesthetic or investment value significantly.