Diamond clarity characteristic –feather

Feather is a professional term used by gem labs like GIA for cracks and fractures inside diamonds. Under a microscope, these cracks show white lines that look just like feathers, so people give it this name. A feather can be a tiny internal mark, or a large crack that even reach the diamond’s surface. It is a very common clarity characteristic, and buyers should view it objectively. Simply put, a feather is a natural fracture inside the stone.

Risks and Classification of Feathers

The influence of feathers differ a lot. It all depends on their size, position and quantity.

1. Low-risk Feathers (Generally no need to worry)

Features: They are extremely small, stay fully inside the diamond and are closed fractures.

Effects: Such feathers can only be seen under magnifying glass, invisible to naked eyes. They will affect the diamond’s clarity grade, but barely hurt its durability and appearance. Small internal feathers are quite common in VS and SI grade diamonds.

2. High-risk Feathers (Need to be careful)

Features:

Large size: They may be visible to naked eyes and ruin the overall look.

Bad position: Located right under the table or other noticeable areas.

Reach the surface: Especially those extending to the girdle or culet.

Effects:

Durability risk is the biggest concern. Feathers touching the girdle or surface are relatively weak. A hard hit or improper pressure during setting may make the crack bigger, even cause the diamond to chip or break. Still, this kind of accident do not happen often in daily wear.

Appearance issues: Big feathers block light travel inside the diamond. They create white cloudy marks and reduce the stone’s transparency and sparkle.

How to Read Feathers on GIA Reports

On the GIA Plot Diagram, feathers are marked with red or curved lines. Red lines mean the feature reaches the surface, while green lines stand for fully internal inclusions. The word “Feather” will also be clearly noted on the report.

Here is the key tip: Check both the plot diagram and written description. The diagram tells you the location and shape of the feather. Clarity grades such as VVS2, VS1 and SI2 show how noticeable it is.

Buying Guide: What to do if a diamond has feathers

Do not be nervous. Most diamonds with feathers are safe and great for jewelry. Feather is one of the most usual inclusions.

Check the certificate carefully.

Check position: If the feather is far from girdle, culet and the center of the table, the risk is very low.

Check clarity grade: Diamonds graded VVS, VS or SI1 usually have feathers that cannot be seen by eyes, with almost no impact on durability. You need to pay extra attention when it comes to SI2 or I1 diamonds.

Physical inspection is the most important step.

Take a look in person. Use a 10x magnifier to check the feather. See if it is obvious and whether it touches the surface.

Choose reliable sellers. Buy from stores that provide 360° high-definition videos. Watch the videos closely and ask the staff for details. A responsible seller will tell you all possible risks truthfully.

Stay away from high-risk features. If the feather is large, sits on the girdle and looks obvious, pick another diamond for long-term safe wearing.

Setting & Daily Care

When sending the diamond for setting, tell the jeweler where the feather is. They can avoid putting strong pressure on the weak area. Try not to hit the diamond hard during daily use.

Feathers are just natural birthmarks of diamonds. Most of them are harmless. Follow these simple rules.

First, refer to GIA certificate to get basic information.

Second, check the real stone via videos or magnifiers, and skip obvious poorly positioned feathers.

Third, buy from trustworthy shops and ask professionals for advice.

If you make a full evaluation, a diamond with feather can be a safe choice with great value for money.