Diamond Clarity: What You Need to Know Before Making a Purchase

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Are you in the market for a stunning diamond but feeling overwhelmed by the technical jargon? Understanding diamond clarity is essential for making a well-informed decision.  In this blog post, I will delve into the intricacies of diamond clarity, providing you with the knowledge to make an informed decision that will leave you feeling confident and ready to make a purchase.

The GIA and AGS Diamond Clarity Grading Scale

Flawless
Flawless diamonds have no blemishes or inclusions visible under 10X magnification. Diamonds with a Flawless grade are often called investment grade and are rarely used in jewelry. Everyday wear can lower a Flawless diamond to Internally Flawless if it gets scratched. Flawless diamonds are priced much higher than any other grade.

Internally Flawless (IF)
Internally Flawless diamonds have no inclusions under 10X magnification and only insignificant blemishes
on the diamond surface (such as tiny pits or scratches that can be easily removed by polishing). Internally Flawless diamonds are priced much higher than other grades.

Very Very Slight Inclusions (VVS1 and VVS2)
Trained diamond graders view a VVS clarity diamond under 10X magnification (sometimes at different angles) to find the inclusions. The inclusions are so small that the average person will not be able to find them. VVS diamonds are priced much higher because the supply is very limited.

Very Slight Inclusions (VS1)
Diamonds that are VS1 clarity have minor inclusions that are difficult to see under 10X magnification. Inclusions range from small crystals, pinpoints, clouds, and feathers. A VS1 clarity diamond is an exceptional choice for engagement rings.

Very Slight Inclusions (VS2)
Diamonds that are VS2 clarity have minor inclusions that are difficult to see under 10X magnification. They have the same type of inclusions as VS1, but they are more numerous, larger, and easier to see under magnification.
A VS2 clarity diamond is an exceptional choice for engagement rings.

Slight Inclusions (SI1)
Even though this is the seventh diamond clarity grade from the top of the scale, this is an attractive diamond. If you were to view an SI1 faceup without magnification, you probably wouldn’t see any inclusions. Under 10X magnification, you will notice clouds, crystals, or features. There is a significant cost savings when you purchase an SI1 clarity.

Slight Inclusions (SI2)
Diamonds that are SI2 clarity have the same type of inclusions as SI1, but they are more numerous, larger, and easier to see. The inclusions may be visible when a diamond is viewed face-up with the naked eye. The inclusions in larger diamonds and emerald cuts may be easier to see because of the larger facets. Sometimes you can see the inclusions when you view a diamond through the pavilion (bottom). A SI2 clarity diamond is still a good choice for an engagement ring, especially when combined with a higher cut rating.

Imperfect (I1)
Diamonds that are an I1 clarity have inclusions that are obvious under 10X magnification and may be visible to the naked eye when viewed face-up. They may be a good choice if you are on a limited budget. An I1 clarity diamond that is well-cut can often look better than a poorly cut SI1.

Imperfect (I2)
Diamonds that are I2 clarity have inclusions that are easily visible to the naked eye and may affect the durability of a diamond. They may appear cloudy and lifeless. This grade is usually used in discount jewelry.

Imperfect (I3)
Diamonds of this grade usually appear shattered. They often have a muddy or whitish appearance because they are so full of crystals. They have very little luster or sparkle. Some diamonds of this quality are borderline industrial quality and should not be used in jewelry.