A pit is a type of diamond blemish that appears as a tiny surface indentation or opening on the diamond’s exterior. These minute imperfections can be caused by natural formation processes, the cutting and polishing process, or general wear and tear over time. Pits are typically small and may require 10x magnification to be seen clearly, though larger pits can sometimes be visible to the naked eye.
When pits are larger and deeper, they are classified as cavities, which can have a more noticeable impact on a diamond’s clarity and durability. Pits and cavities are usually found on the table or facet junctions of a diamond, where they may affect the overall finish of the stone.
Pits can influence a diamond’s polish grade, as they interrupt the smoothness of the surface. While minor pits may not significantly impact a diamond’s appearance or value, excessive or deep pits can detract from its brilliance and make the stone more vulnerable to dirt accumulation or further damage.
In professional diamond grading reports from laboratories like the GIA or DCLA, pits are noted as part of the stone’s clarity characteristics. Jewelers and diamond cutters may attempt to minimize the visibility of pits through careful polishing, though in some cases, deep pits or cavities may require minor re-cutting to improve the diamond’s overall finish.