A diamond’s clarity grade is related to the visibility of the inclusions and blemishes of a diamond under 10X magnification. Diamonds without or with limited inclusions or blemishes are rare and valued. Inclusions include crystals, clouds, twinning wisps, feathers and indented naturals etc. Diamonds with slighter and tinier inclusions and blemishes give better clarity grades.
(Please go to http://gia4cs.gia.edu/EN-US/the-diamond-4-cs.htm for more information about 4Cs by
Gemological Institute of America)
Diamond Clarity Grading
According to GIA approval, there are 6 major categories of clarity grades. They are Flawless (FL), Internally Flawless (IF), Very Very Slightly Included (VVS), Very Slightly Included (VS), and Slightly Included (SI) and I (Included).
1. FL (Flawless)
Under 10X magnification
Naked eye
FL-graded diamonds are diamonds with no inclusion and blemishes visible under 10X magnification. They are extremely rare in the market.
2. IF (Internally Flawless)
Under 10X magnification
Naked eye
IF-graded diamonds are diamonds with no inclusions visible under 10X magnification.
3. VVS (Very Very Slightly Included)
Under 10X magnification
Naked eye
VVS1 and VVS2 graded diamonds are diamonds with very very small inclusions. They are difficult to notice even for professional diamond graders under 10X magnification.
4. VS (Very Slightly Included)
Under 10X magnification
Naked eye
VS1 and VS2 graded diamonds are diamonds with small inclusions. They can be seen by professional diamond graders easily under 10X magnification, but cannot be easily noticed by non-professionals. These grades offer great value.
5. SI (Slightly Included)
Under 10X magnification
Naked eye
SI1 and SI2 graded diamonds are diamonds having noticeable inclusions under 10X magnification, but the inclusions are almost invisible to naked eyes. They are suitable for low budget buyers and those who are not looking for very good clarity.
6. I (Included)
Under 10X magnification
Naked eye
I1, I2 and I3 graded diamonds are diamonds with inclusions visible to naked eyes. For I2 and I3-graded diamonds, the inclusions also affect the transparency and brilliance.
Appropriate Clarity Grade for you
An eye clean diamond is recommended. Certainly, diamonds with higher grades give higher brilliance. However, an appropriate diamond clarity grade is after all a personal preference and budget. We are pleased and honored to assist and provide our valuable customers with professional opinions, finding the best and unique diamond for them.
