Diamond Clarity

by Eli Butbul

Clarity describes the presence or absence of inclusions within the diamond and blemishes on its surface. Diamonds that are crystal clear are the most popular and therefore the most expensive. Many diamonds have natural identifying characteristics sometimes referred to as “inclusions” such as scratches, trace minerals or other tiny characteristics that can detract from the pure beauty of the diamond. These inclusions are developed in the diamond during its formation and a few are actually a result of the harsh stress that a diamond undergoes during the actual cutting process which is justified when you think of the effort it takes to a create a diamond. The fewer inclusions a diamond shows, the rarer and more valuable it is. Many are not detectible by the naked eye, but can be seen under a microscope.

The GIA use a detailed system of rules and standards to summarise the number, location, size, and type of inclusions present in a diamond. The grading system is outlined below.

How are Diamonds Graded for Clarity

Diamonds are graded for clarity under 10x loupe magnification. Grades range from Flawless - diamonds which are completely free of inclusions, to Imperfect 3 - diamonds which possess large inclusions that are visible to the naked eye.

FL = Flawless: No internal or external inclusions of any kind are visible under 10x magnification. These are the most rare and expensive of all clarity grades.

IF: Internally Flawless: No internal inclusions are visible under 10x magnification but there may be some tiny external irregularities in the finish. These are quite rare and expensive.

VVS-1: Very Very Slightly Included 1: Usually just one tiny inclusion is visible only to a trained eye under 10x magnification. These are exceptional quality diamonds and relatively expensive.

VVS-2: Very Very Slightly Included 2: Tiny inclusions are visible only to a trained eye under 10x magnification. These are outstanding quality diamonds and relatively expensive.

VS-1: Very Slightly Included 1: Very small inclusions are visible with 10x magnification. These are high quality diamonds and moderately expensive.

VS-2: Very Slightly Included 2: Several very small inclusions are visible with 10x magnification. These are quality diamonds and moderately expensive.

SI-1:Slightly Included 1: Small inclusions are visible with 10x magnification. These are considerable value, quality diamonds.

SI-2: Slightly Included 2: Several small inclusions are visible with 10x magnification.

SI-3: Slightly Included 3: Inclusions may be visible to the naked eye for a trained observer.

I-1: Included 1: Flaws are visible to the naked eye.

I-2: Included 2: Many flaws are clearly visible to the naked eye and also decrease the brilliance.

I-3: Included 3: Many flaws are clearly visible to the naked eye which decrease the brilliance and compromise the structure of the diamond, making it more easily cracked or chipped.

Which Clarity Grade Should I Choose?

While Flawless diamonds are the rarest and the most beautiful diamonds, a diamond does not have to be completely clean to be extremely attractive. Those diamonds with VVS and VS grades can be excellent choices as well. More affordable are those diamonds called "eye-clean" - one that has no inclusions visible to the unaided eye. These diamonds as SI1 or SI2.