Knot reaching surface

A surface imperfection can be spotted in the upper-right portion of the table, just above center. In the clarity plot, the knot is marked with a green outline on the left side (around the 9 to 10 o’clock position), but in the actual image of the diamond, the visible inclusion appears on the opposite side, closer to the 2 to 3 o’clock area. This is a common occurrence when vendors photograph diamonds at a different orientation than the GIA crown-view diagram. Unlike fully enclosed inclusions, a knot meets the outside of the diamond, creating a visible disturbance that may reflect light differently or appear raised under magnification.

This 1.51 carat H color SI1 diamond shows how knots can appear even in diamonds with decent clarity grades. While the inclusion may not be obvious from every angle, it breaks the surface and can affect both polish and durability. A close-up inspection or video review is always recommended when “knot” is listed in the grading report.