Are defects in diamond common, and are they always undesirable?

• A. Defects are rare and always undesirable.
• B. Defects are rare and not always undesirable.
• C. Defects are common and always undesirable.
• D. Defects are common and not always undesirable.

Answer: (D)

Defects in diamonds are common because the crystal forms under conditions that naturally produce tiny internal inclusions and surface blemishes. Perfect, flawless diamonds are extremely rare and highly valued, which reflects how unusual such defects are. Yet not every defect is a problem. If an inclusion is small and hidden from view, or located where it doesn’t disrupt how light travels through the stone, it won’t detract from appearance or durability. Buyers often seek eye-clean stones, where flaws aren’t visible to the naked eye, and some inclusions can even give a stone character or help with identification. So, defects are common and not always undesirable.