DIAMOND CLARITY

Clarity refers to the presence of imperfections, known as inclusions, in the crystal structure of the diamond. Nearly all diamonds contain some sort of inclusion, as they are part of a diamond’s characteristics and structure. An inclusion within a diamond is natural, and on the higher end of the clarity scale, does not take away from its beauty.

The 4Cs – Diamond Clarity

Inclusions are caused by nature. As a diamond forms over millions of years, the molecular bonding process is temporarily interrupted, resulting in clarity that is less than perfect. There are many different types of inclusions, ranging from microscopic specks of black carbon to feathery lines to cloudy spots. Each can have a different effect on the diamond’s clarity.

CLARITY SCALE AND GRADES

Almost all of the world’s diamonds have some kind of inclusion within. The diamond clarity grading system of the Gemological Institute of America, the world’s premier diamond grading nonprofit, measures the visibility of these characteristics under 10x magnification. Specific attributes of inclusions, such as size, type, and location within the stone, are considered when assigning a clarity grade on a scale that rates diamonds from Flawless (FL) through Included-3 (I3).

 

A GUIDE TO THE CLARITY OF A DIAMOND

Flawless & Internally Flawless (“IF”) – The diamond shows no inclusions when examined under 10x magnification and has the best diamond clarity rating.

VVS1 & VVS2 – “Very, Very Slightly Included” – The diamond contains microscopic inclusions that are very difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification. These inclusions are never visible to the naked eye.

VS1 & VS2 – “Very Slightly Included” – The diamond contains minor inclusions that are visible to a skilled grader under 10x magnification. These inclusions are not visible to the naked eye.

SI1 & SI2 – “Slightly Included” – The diamond contains inclusions that are easily visible under 10x magnification. The inclusions in SI1 diamonds are often not visible to the naked eye. The inclusions in SI2 diamonds are sometimes not visible to the naked eye.

I1, I2, I3 and beyond – The diamond contains inclusions that are obvious under 10x magnification and easily visible to the naked eye.