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- The Diamond Guide
Diamond Clarity Scale
As one of the 4Cs used for assessing diamonds, clarity is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for an engagement ring. You can use this diamond grading scale to determine which level of clarity is the best choice for you.
DIAMOND CLARITY GRADES
The diamond clarity scale was developed by The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and measures a diamond’s inclusions and blemishes visible under 10x magnification. Imperfections found on the surface of the stone are called blemishes, while internal imperfections are known as inclusions. Internally flawless diamonds are very rare, and most natural diamonds have some measurable “internal characteristics”—a term gemologists use in reference to an included diamond’s flaws.
Each stone receives a diamond clarity grade based on the presence or absence of internal flaws. It’s worth noting that most imperfections aren’t visible to the naked eye and don’t negatively affect the diamond’s overall beauty. Diamonds with fewer surface blemishes and inclusions (i.e., better diamond clarity grades) are rarer and thus more expensive.
Diamond Clarity Scale
I
An I grade stands for “Included” and indicates the presence of inclusions that are obvious under 10x magnification. These imperfections can negatively impact the stone’s shine and transparency. This category is divided up into grades of I1, I2, and I3, with I3 being the lowest grade.
VS
A grade of VS stands for “Very Slightly Included” with minor inclusions that are less noticeable but still observable under 10x magnification. This category includes grades VS1 and VS2, with VS1 being the higher grade.
SI
SI stands for “Slightly Included” and refers to inclusions that are noticeable under 10x magnification. This category is divided into two grades, SI1 and SI2, with SI1 being slightly better.
VVS
The VVS grade refers to “Very, Very Slightly Included” with very minor inclusions that are challenging for even the most skilled graders to observe under 10x magnification. These diamonds are given a grade of either VVS1 or VVS2, with VVS1 being the better grade.
IF
IF diamonds are considered “Internally Flawless” with no visible inclusions under 10x magnification.
F OR FL
F or FL diamonds are considered “Flawless” with no inclusions or surface blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
WHAT IS THE BEST DIAMOND CLARITY?
While the best diamond clarity grade on the diamond clarity scale is F or FL for “Flawless,” this is an incredibly rare grade that’s given to fewer than 1% of all diamonds in the world. These diamonds have no internal or external flaws, and they are truly scarce.
When it comes to diamonds, inclusions are normal. Most jewelers suggest selecting a diamond that is “eye clean,” meaning that its inclusions and blemishes are too small to be seen with the naked eye and are only visible with magnification. Eye-clean diamonds are usually those with an SI or VS clarity grade.
A diamond’s size and shape can also affect its clarity. The larger a diamond is, the more visible its inclusions—which means you should make clarity a priority when choosing a larger stone. Likewise, step-cut diamonds (like Asscher and emerald cuts) show inclusions more readily due to their rectangular facets and may require better clarity grades of VS1 or higher as a result. Alternatively, round, oval, marquise, pear, princess, and heart-shaped diamonds are better at disguising inclusions.
WHAT CAUSES INCLUSIONS?
Internal clarity characteristics or inclusions develop due to the extreme heat and pressure that all diamonds are subjected to while they’re in the process of forming deep within the earth. Essentially birthmarks, these distinguishing features are found in almost all diamonds—even though most are invisible to the naked eye.
HOW IMPORTANT IS DIAMOND CLARITY?
Diamond clarity is certainly an important consideration when buying a diamond, as multiple inclusions and blemishes can hinder a diamond’s ability to sparkle and shine. That being said, most diamonds naturally have some imperfections—most of which are invisible without magnification.
Generally speaking, higher-grade Included (I) diamonds are a good place to start your search. I1 and I1–I2 diamonds mounted in a well-arranged setting can achieve a fashion-forward look that maximizes both brilliance and value. Slightly Included (SI) and Very Slightly Included (VS) diamonds are “eye-clean” diamond clarity grades that contain relatively minor inclusions that are only visible under 10x magnification.
As mentioned above, diamond clarity can have a greater impact on certain diamond shapes (e.g., Asscher and emerald cuts) as well as larger diamond sizes, so you’ll want to look for higher clarity grades when you buy a diamond with these features.