Diamond Clarity: Understanding Clarity Grades
What is diamond clarity?
Diamond clarity refers to the assessment of natural characteristics found inside or on the surface of a diamond. These characteristics are evaluated when determining the diamond’s clarity grade.
Internal characteristics are known as inclusions, while marks that appear on the surface are called blemishes.
During the grading process, specialists examine the number, size and position of these characteristics. They also consider how noticeable they are and how they affect the overall appearance of the diamond.
Clarity is one of the key factors used to determine a diamond’s value. In general, diamonds with fewer visible inclusions or blemishes receive higher clarity grades.
How diamond clarity is graded
Diamond clarity is assessed using a grading system developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This scale has become the international standard used by laboratories around the world.
The clarity scale ranges from FL (Flawless) to I3 (Included).
Although most diamonds contain natural inclusions, completely flawless diamonds do exist. However, these stones are extremely rare and many jewellers may never encounter one during their careers.
What causes inclusions in diamonds?
Inclusions are natural characteristics that form as diamonds develop.
Natural diamonds are created deep within the earth under intense heat and pressure. During this process, small imperfections can become trapped inside the crystal structure as the diamond forms.
These characteristics are often compared to natural fingerprints, giving each diamond its own individual identity. Even diamonds with the same clarity grade will have inclusions that vary in size, number and location.
Lab grown diamonds are produced in controlled environments rather than underground, but they also require high heat and pressure during their formation. For this reason, lab grown diamonds can also contain inclusions and are graded using the same clarity scale as natural diamonds.
The diamond clarity scale
The clarity scale ranges from FL (Flawless) to I3 (Included). Diamonds with higher clarity grades are rarer, which generally makes them more valuable.
At Lorel Diamonds, the diamonds available typically range from VVS1 to I1 clarity.
Diamonds graded VS2 and higher are commonly described as eye clean, meaning any inclusions are not visible without magnification.
Diamond clarity grades explained
VVS1 – Very Very Slightly Included
Diamonds graded VVS1 contain extremely small inclusions that are very difficult to detect, even under 10x magnification. These diamonds are considered to be of exceptional quality.
VVS2 – Very Very Slightly Included
VVS2 diamonds contain minute inclusions that are also extremely difficult to see under 10x magnification.
VS1 – Very Slightly Included
VS1 diamonds contain very small inclusions that are only visible under magnification. These stones are considered high quality.
VS2 – Very Slightly Included
VS2 diamonds contain minor inclusions that can be seen under 10x magnification but are typically not visible to the naked eye.
SI1 – Slightly Included
SI1 diamonds have inclusions that are noticeable under magnification but are usually not easily visible without magnification. These diamonds often offer excellent value.
SI2 – Slightly Included
SI2 diamonds contain inclusions that are clearly visible under magnification and may sometimes be visible to the naked eye.
I1 – Included
I1 diamonds contain inclusions that are visible without magnification. They can offer good value for those who are comfortable with visible natural characteristics.
Choosing the right diamond clarity
Selecting the right clarity grade often comes down to a balance between personal preference and budget.
Some buyers are comfortable with inclusions that are visible under magnification, while others prefer diamonds that appear completely clean to the naked eye.
For those who prefer a diamond without visible inclusions, VS2 clarity is often considered a good starting point for diamonds up to 1.00 carat.
For diamonds weighing more than 1.00 carat, VS1 clarity is often recommended to maintain an eye clean appearance.
Certain diamond shapes with large open surfaces, such as emerald and asscher shapes, can make inclusions easier to see. In these cases, selecting VS1 clarity or higher is often advisable.
