What is diamond clarity?
Clarity refers to the degree to which a diamond is free from inclusions and blemishes. These small characteristics, called inclusions or surface blemishes, naturally form during the stone's growth. The rarer or more discreet they are, the purer and rarer the diamond is considered to be.
How do experts evaluate diamond clarity?
Recognized gemological laboratories, such as the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and the IGI (International Gemological Institute), evaluate a diamond's clarity under 10x magnification. In gemology, this examination allows for the identification of inclusions, which are characteristics present within the diamond, as well as those on its surface.
To determine the clarity grade, experts consider factors such as the size of the inclusions, their number, position, nature, and visibility. An inclusion located at the center of the diamond, for instance, may have a greater impact than a discreet inclusion near the edge. Surface characteristics are also taken into consideration during the evaluation. All of these observations allow for the assignment of a precise clarity grade.
What are the different grades of purity on the official scale?
The clarity scale used by the GIA and IGI includes 11 grades, divided into six main categories ranging from FL to I3. It goes from diamonds with no inclusions visible under 10x magnification to stones whose natural inclusions are clearly visible. This strict scientific classification ensures that each diamond receives a perfectly neutral grade, based on the physical reality of the stone and not on a subjective impression.
- FL (Flawless): no inclusions or surface blemishes are visible under 10x magnification. This grade is extremely rare.
- IF (Internally Flawless): no internal inclusions are visible under 10x magnification, although slight surface blemishes may be present.
- VVS1 and VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included): inclusions are extremely small and very difficult to detect, even for an experienced gemologist using 10x magnification.
- VS1 and VS2 (Very Slightly Included): inclusions are minor and can be observed under magnification, but they are generally difficult to distinguish with the naked eye.
- SI1 and SI2 (Slightly Included): inclusions are easier to spot under 10x magnification and may sometimes be visible to the naked eye, depending on their size, location, and contrast.
- I1, I2 and I3 (Included): inclusions are obvious under magnification and may be visible to the naked eye. They may also affect the diamond's transparency, brilliance, or, in some cases, durability.
How does clarity impact your jewelry choice?
When choosing a diamond, it can be advantageous to prioritize a stone whose inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. VS1 and VS2 grades often offer an excellent balance of clarity, appearance, and price, while some SI1 diamonds can also display very good visual transparency.
The perception of inclusions can also vary depending on the diamond's shape. A brilliant cut, for example, tends to better conceal certain inclusions thanks to its facet pattern, whereas an emerald cut, being more open and streamlined, can make them more apparent. Opting for a clarity grade slightly lower than FL or VVS thus allows for greater investment in other characteristics that strongly influence a diamond's appearance, such as its carat weight, proportions, or cut quality. These evaluation criteria apply to both natural and lab-grown diamonds.
Our jewellers' opinion
The clarity grade is an excellent benchmark, but it should not be the only criterion to guide your choice. Two diamonds with the same grade can have very different inclusions depending on their location, color, and the shape of the stone. Some will be almost imperceptible, while others will be more noticeable.
We therefore recommend evaluating the diamond as a whole rather than automatically seeking the highest grade. The quality of the cut, brilliance, proportions, and the dimensions of the gemstone often have a greater impact on its everyday appearance. The best diamond is not necessarily the purest on paper, but the one whose characteristics create the most beautiful balance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diamond Clarity
No. Most inclusions are only visible under 10x magnification, the standard used in gemology to grade a diamond's clarity. When no inclusions are visible to the naked eye under normal viewing conditions, the diamond is said to be eye-clean.
Yes, exactly. The GIA and IGI grade laboratory-grown diamonds using the same clarity scale and with the same scientific rigor as for mined diamonds.
No. Official GIA and IGI grading reports are for main center stones only. Small pave or accent diamonds do not come with individual certificates.