What primarily defines a diamond's clarity?

A diamond's clarity is primarily defined by the absence of inclusions and blemishes. Clarity refers to the assessment of a diamond's internal and external imperfections, which can affect its beauty and value. Inclusions are internal flaws, such as tiny crystals or clouds, while blemishes are external marks, like scratches or chips.

The clearer a diamond is, meaning the fewer inclusions and blemishes it has, the higher its clarity grade will be, which significantly impacts its overall quality and desirability. High clarity grades indicate that the diamond is closer to being flawless, making it more valuable in the market.

In contrast, the number of carats relates to the weight of the diamond, which is a different factor in determining overall value. The diamond's age does not play a role in clarity evaluation, and the color grade assesses the presence of color within the diamond rather than imperfections. Thus, the focus on the absence of inclusions and blemishes is fundamental in defining a diamond's clarity.