Clarity Plotting

Term from Gemology industry explained for recruiters

Clarity Plotting is a fundamental skill in the jewelry and gemstone industry where professionals create detailed diagrams or maps of a gemstone's internal and external characteristics. It's like creating a detailed medical chart but for precious stones, showing where inclusions (internal features), blemishes (external marks), or other identifying features are located. This documentation is crucial for diamond grading, identification, and valuation. The practice helps jewelers and gemologists track stones, verify their identity, and assess their quality. You might also see this referred to as "Diamond Plotting" or "Stone Mapping" in job descriptions.

Examples in Resumes

Created detailed Clarity Plotting diagrams for over 500 diamonds

Trained junior gemologists in Clarity Plotting and Diamond Plotting techniques

Maintained accurate Stone Mapping records for high-value gemstones

Typical job title: "Gemologists"

Also try searching for:

Diamond Grader Gemologist Jewelry Appraiser Diamond Quality Inspector Laboratory Gemologist Gemstone Analyst

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement a clarity plotting training program for junior gemologists?

Expected Answer: A senior gemologist should discuss creating structured learning materials, hands-on practice sessions, quality control measures, and methods to ensure consistency across different plotters. They should mention the importance of teaching both manual and digital plotting techniques.

Q: How do you handle complex clarity plotting scenarios in unusual stone cuts?

Expected Answer: Should explain approaches to plotting challenging cuts like fancy shapes, experience with various plotting methods for different situations, and maintaining accuracy in difficult cases.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What systems do you use to ensure accuracy in clarity plotting?

Expected Answer: Should discuss double-checking methods, use of proper lighting and magnification, systematic approaches to examining stones, and documentation procedures.

Q: How do you determine which inclusions are significant enough to plot?

Expected Answer: Should explain assessment criteria for inclusion significance, industry standards for plotting, and how to prioritize features based on their impact on clarity grade.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the basic symbols used in clarity plotting?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe common plotting symbols for different types of inclusions and blemishes, and explain when to use each symbol.

Q: What equipment do you use for clarity plotting?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic tools like loupes, microscopes, plotting sheets, and understanding of proper lighting conditions.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic clarity plotting symbols and terminology
  • Use of standard gemological equipment
  • Understanding of basic diamond grading
  • Simple documentation procedures

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Detailed plotting of complex inclusions
  • Digital plotting software proficiency
  • Quality control procedures
  • Advanced stone identification

Senior (5+ years)

  • Training and supervision of other plotters
  • Complex case analysis
  • Laboratory procedures development
  • High-value stone assessment

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to identify basic inclusion types
  • Lack of attention to detail
  • No formal gemological education or certification
  • Unfamiliarity with industry standards and terminology
  • Poor documentation practices