Clarity - Diamond Clarity is a measure of a diamond’s internal flaws and impurities.

Clarity

Diamond Clarity is a measure of a diamond’s internal flaws and impurities.

Practically all diamonds contain naturally occurring internal characteristics called inclusions. The size, nature, location and amount of inclusions determine a diamond’s clarity grade and affect its cost. A diamond that is virtually free of interior or exterior inclusions (commonly referred to as flaws) is of the highest quality, for nothing interferes with the passage of light through the diamond. To determine a diamond’s clarity, it is viewed under 10x magnification by a trained gemologist. Small inclusions neither mar its beauty nor endanger its durability.

Flawless – No internal or external flaws

Internally Flawless – No internal flaws. Very rare and beautiful diamonds which are quite expensive.

VVS1, VVS2 – Very, Very Slightly Included: Very Very difficult to see inclusions under 10x magnification. An excellent quality diamond.

VS, VS2 – Very Slightly Included: Very difficult to see inclusions under 10X magnification.

SI1, SI2 – Slightly Included: Inclusions are visible under 10x magnification, SI clarity diamonds are usually of the best value since inclusions are not visible to the naked eye and prices are reasonable when compared to prices of the VS2 clarity and up grades.

SI3 – Slightly Included-EGL: SI3 is an EGL grade and is not recognized by GIA or other gemological institutions. It may be graded by GIA as either SI2 or I1. SI3 diamonds rarely have any black inclusions or blemishes visible to the naked eye, but may have some minor white inclusions which can be seen with the naked eye.

I1 – Included: an I1 clarity diamond will have a visible flaw which can be seen with the naked eye, but there should only be one major flaw which is not too obvious. If your budget only allows for an SI3 or I1 clarity diamond(s), be sure to examine it thoroughly before making your purchase so you are aware of the inclusions and satisfied with your selection.

I2, I3 – Included: These diamonds will have inclusions visible to the naked eye, and will have many black spots from the black inclusions and appear cloudy from the white inclusions, feathers and blemishes.