Diamond Clarity
The natural process of a diamond’s creation typically creates certain identifying characteristics on the inside and outside of the stone. The tiny imperfections are called inclusions.
Inclusions can be scratches, bubbles, spots, clouds, feathers, knots, cavities or mineral material. Depending on the size and location of these inclusions, the beauty of a diamond can be affected. Large clouds may interfere with a diamonds ability to reflect light.
Additionally, large cracks on or near the surface of a diamond may compromise the structural integrity of the stone. In most cases, inclusions are microscopic and do not diminish the beauty or structural integrity of the diamond, however.
Understanding Clarity Grades
Clarity grades are based on the number, size, position, nature, and color of the inclusion. Diamonds that have the fewest, smallest and least visible inclusions receive the highest clarity grades and are the most valuable. Clarity is determined under a 10x loupe magnification by an experienced grader. These grades include:
FL, IF: “Flawless, or Internally Flawless”
These diamonds contain no inclusions visible under 10x magnification. These diamonds are very rare.
VVS1-VVS2: “Very, Very Slightly Included”
These diamonds contain very small inclusions that are very hard to see under 10x magnification. These diamonds are high in quality and price.
VS1-VS2: “Very Slightly Included”
These diamonds have inclusions that can be seen under 10x magnification with some effort. They are not visible to the naked eye, however, and do not typically affect the diamond’s beauty.
SI1-SI2: “Slightly Included”
These diamonds have inclusions that can be seen under 10x magnification without effort. Most cannot be seen with the naked eye, but some may when held at the right angle.
I1-I2-I3: “Included”
These diamonds contain inclusions that are obvious under 10x magnification and can typically be seen with the naked eye. These inclusions can affect the sparkle of the diamond.
Choosing the Right Clarity Grade
Because it’s impossible to see inclusions in diamonds graded VS2 and higher without magnification, the clarity of a diamond often does not affect its beauty. Clarity does affect the value of a diamond, however. FL, IF diamonds are extremely rare and very costly.
A diamond does not have to be flawless, however, to be very beautiful.
More affordable diamonds which are “eye-clean” or do not include visible inclusions, can offer a better value. All other characteristics being equal, lower clarity diamonds are often indistinguishable from higher clarity diamonds to the naked eye. When purchasing a lower clarity diamond, however, makes sure any inclusions are not visible to the unaided eye.
Clarity and Shape
For some diamond shapes, the clarity grade is an important factor in the beauty of the diamond. Emerald Cut and Asscher Cut diamonds, which have a large, open tables, shows inclusions more readily than a round cut diamond. Consequently, it’s important to check the clarity plot on the diamond certificate, which indicates the location of inclusions.