Diamonds are stones formed in the earth under extreme pressure, these rocks when forming crack, cloud and spots of uncrystallized carbon can become trapped as black specks. Inclusions are not bad, and MOST diamonds have them in one form or another. Depending where the inclusions are, how many there are and of what type, they are often invisible to the unaided, untrained eye. Diamond clarity refers to the absence of these inclusions and blemishes. Diamonds without inclusions are very rare and are graded as IF or Internally Flawless. Inclusions do affect the value of the diamond, and can affect the stone’s brilliance if the are grouped tightly together or if they are scattered throughout the diamond. The inclusions break up the light entering and leaving the diamond, making it less brilliant. SI2 and SI1 can be very clean and are the best value. VS diamonds will be more brilliant, and will sell for a higher price than the SI diamonds.