Clarity

Diamond Clarity

Diamond clarity ratings are determined by the amount of inclusions and how visible they are.

There are two types of flaws within a natural diamond called inclusions and blemishes. Inclusions refer to the internal flaws of a diamond and blemishes refer to external or surface flaws.

Inclusions may be structural imperfections such as tiny pinpoints, markings, tiny cracks or feathers and clouding that will affect the overall appearance of the diamond.

Often times the inclusions are microscopic diamonds that were absorbed by the larger crystal before the diamond was carried to the surface of the Earth.

The quantity, size, color, location, orientation, and visibility of inclusions all affect the final clarity grade of a diamond.

Diamonds with the least and smallest imperfections receive the highest clarity grades.

Diamonds with fewer inclusions and blemishes will have a better clarity rating, which will increase their brilliance and value.

Diamonds with clarity grades VVS1 through SI2 have slight inclusions that may be visible to varying degrees under 10 x magnifications, but should not generally be visible without microscope.

Diamonds with I1 clarity ratings contain inclusions that are easily seen under 10 x magnifications and may be visible without microscope.

Diamonds with I2 and I3 clarities have major inclusions that are easily seen without magnification.

Types of Clarity

Diamond Clarity

Different Clarity of Diamond

FL (Flawless) :
- No internal or external imperfections.
IF (Internally Flawless) :
- No internal imperfections.
- Extremely rare and valuable.
VVS1 - VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included) :
- Very difficult to see imperfections under 10x magnification.
- An excellent quality diamond.
VS1 - VS2 (Very Slightly Included) :
- Inclusions are observed with effort under 10x magnification, but can be characterized as minor.
- Less expensive than the VVS1 or VVS2 grades.
SI1 - SI2 (Slightly Included) :
- Imperfections are visible under 10x magnification, and may be visible with the unaided eye.
- A good diamond value.
SI3 - I1 (Included) :
- Inclusions that are almost always visible to the naked eye.
I2 - I3 (Included) :
- Inclusions are visible to the unaided eye. Not carried by Brilliant Earth.