The Value of Clarity

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When gemologists inspect diamonds for overall quality, they must painstakingly determine the clarity of the diamond. Using a 10x magnification loupe, gemologists determine the size, type, and position of the imperfections.

Members of the industry refer to these imperfections in diamond clarity as “inclusions.” Gemologists then put the diamond into one of the following classifications based on the results of their inspection:

Within the VVS, VS, and SI classifications there are additional gradations denoted by a number 1 or 2. For the included class, the subdivisions are denoted with a number from 1 to 3. Because most diamonds have flaws, a flawless diamond and nearly flawless diamond (clarity between FL and VVS2) is considered particularly rare and are consequently particularly pricey. Bear in mind that an ideal cut diamond will optimize the use of light, creating fire and brilliance. Inclusions can hinder how the light reflects, lessening the brilliance and prismatic effect of color in a diamond.

Choose a clear, “clean”, or “eye-clean” diamond. An eye-clean one has no inclusions or blemishes visible to the naked eye. Any time graded Flawless through SI-2 is considered to be eye-clean.

FL Flawless: No internal flaws. Very rare and very expensive diamond.

IF Internally Flawless: No internal flaws. Also very rare and very expensive.

VVS1-VVS2 Very, Very Slightly Included: Extremely difficult to see inclusions under 10x magnification. Rare and expensive.

VS1-VS2 Very Slightly Included: Inclusions are not visible to the unaided eye. High quality.

SI1-SI2 Slightly Included: Inclusions are visible under 10x magnification. Good quality diamond.

I1-I2-I3 Included: Inclusions and flaws visible to the naked eye.

FL to IF
VVS1 to VVS2
VS1 to VS2
SI1 to SI2
I1 to I3