Diamond Clarity
The “C” That Gives Your Diamond Unique Character
Diamonds are formed under extreme heat and pressure, which often leaves them with unique, internal, or surface characteristics known as “inclusions.” No two diamonds are alike and no single diamond is perfect under 10X magnification. A good comparison for an inclusion would be a birthmark.
The Diamond Clarity grading scale is as follows: Flawless, VVS1-VVS2, VS1-VS2, SI1-SI2, I1, I2-I3. See below for a visual representation and more explanation of each grade on the scale.
Clarity Grading Scale
- Flawless (FL) – No inclusions or blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10x magnification
- Internally Flawless (IF) – No inclusions and only blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10x magnification
- VVS1 – VVs2 (Very, Very Slightly Included) – Inclusions are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification
- VS1 – VS2 (Very Slightly Included) – Inclusions are minor and are sometimes difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification
- SI1 and SI2 (Slightly Included) – Inclusions are noticeable to a skilled grader under 10x magnification
- I1, I2, and I3 (Included) – Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance