FLAWLESS (FL): Describes a diamond in which a skilled observer, under favorable lighting conditions, cannot see any inclusions (internal imperfections) or surface blemishes, after thorough examination with a binocular microscope at ten power magnification or with a 10x corrected loupe. Internal graining is permitted, provided it does not draw any color or texture and is not observable through the crown (upper portion). Small extra facets on the pavilion (bottom portion) near the girdle (ridge between crown and pavilion) are permitted, provided they are not visible when viewed from above. So are small naturals, provided they are confined to the girdle and do not flatten the girdle outline. It is standard industry practice for the laboratories to add the comment "minor details of polish are not shown" on grading reports for Flawless and Internally Flawless diamonds, it's one of those legal catch-all phrases to limit their liability and seems to appear on all FL and IF lab reports so don't be freaked out by it.

INTERNALLY FLAWLESS (IF): Describes diamonds which have no internal characteristics observable under the same conditions as previously described, but which have minor surface blemishes that do not penetrate the diamond. Internal graining is permitted, provided it does not draw any color or texture. Surface grain lines are permitted provided they are not too thick or numerous as to detract from the beauty of the diamond.

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