Inclusions & Blemishes

Diamond Blemishes: Burn Marks | Rare Carat

Diamond abrasions shown on GIA certificate

Welcome to the next installment of our riveting series on diamond inclusions! Today we are going to get to grips with those external blemishes called ‘burn marks’, but before we do I want to make sure you are all up-to-date on the basics of diamond inclusions.

Do you know the difference between an internal and an external inclusion? Do you know how to spot these on a diamond grading report? Do you know what the comments section on a grading report is for? Click here immediately before I judge you any further. Back? Cool. Let’s feel the burn (marks).

What is a burn mark?

Like most of these external ‘blemishes’ (imperfections that occur on the outside of the diamond rather than inside the stone), burn marks are a result of the stone being polished far too quickly, or if the stone has been subjected to far too much heat. Burn marks result in a nasty stain-like situation on the diamond. Think of it like when a glass top stove gets strange marks on it when it gets burnt, like this:

Rectangular step cut diamond with rough cloudy spots circled in red

These burn marks on diamonds produce a sort of hazy or cloudy look to the area of the diamond that was exposed to the overheating/polishing. These marks aren’t always translucent either, but can actually add some discoloration to the burnt area of the stone. BUMMER.

The good news is that these blemishes will not impact the durability of the diamond, and can even be removed after a good polishing. Kind of like those pecky scratches you get on the hood of your car, they don’t affect how the car drives, and are removed with a good buffing. RESULT!

Burn Mark Diamond Blemishes FAQs

What exactly is a burn mark on a diamond and how does it happen?

A burn mark is a surface blemish that occurs when a diamond gets too much heat—either during polishing or due to quick polishing speeds. The article explains it creates a hazy or cloudy patch on the facet, sometimes even a slight discoloration.

Does a burn mark hurt the durability of the diamond?

Fortunately, not usually. Though it looks unsightly, the article says burn marks are an external issue and don’t compromise the stone’s structure or strength.

Should I avoid a diamond just because it has a burn mark?

Not always—but it depends on how visible it is. If the burn mark is small, tucked away, and barely visible face-up, you might be okay. But if it’s noticeable in normal lighting or creates a cloudy area where light should pass through, it’s a good reason to ask for a discount or choose a cleaner stone.

Can a burn mark be removed or improved?

Yes—in many cases, the article says a skilled repolish can remove or greatly reduce a burn mark. That said, removing it may mean some weight loss from the diamond, and you should check how the polishing affects the finish and value before proceeding.

Ready to create your perfect ring?

Start with a Diamond Start with a Setting

Not sure where to start? Read our guarantee

Dr. Rian Mulcahy

Rian is officially a Diamond PhD - just ping us if you’d like to read her fascinating 200-page thesis, titled Facets of Value: An Investigation into the Formation of Worth in the Diamond Market. She has consulted various firms all along the pipeline, from the rough diamond market to the recycled diamond industry. She holds an MA in Globalisation and Development from University College Cork and a PhD in the Sociology of Diamond Valuation from the London School of Economics.