Diamond Clarity: A Comprehensive Guide [Reviewed]

Diamond Clarity is one of the 4Cs of diamonds for a reason: it affects not just a diamond`s beauty, but also its value.

What does diamond clarity mean?

In its simplest sense, diamond clarity refers to how clear a diamond appears, both inside and out.

Officially speaking, diamond clarity refers to the presence of internal and external characteristics, or “inclusions” and “blemishes,” in a diamond.

These characteristics are a result of the diamond`s formation process deep within the earth.

The clarity of a diamond is graded on a scale ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3).

The higher the clarity grade, the fewer inclusions and blemishes the diamond has, and the more valuable and rare it is.

This is where the diamond clarity chart comes into play.

The chart provides a visual representation of the various clarity grades, helping you understand how clarity affects a diamond`s appearance and value.

What Does Diamond Clarity Mean?

In its simplest sense, diamond clarity refers to how clear a diamond appears, both inside and out.

Officially speaking, diamond clarity refers to the presence of internal and external characteristics, or “inclusions” and “blemishes,” in a diamond. These characteristics are a result of the diamond`s formation process deep within the earth. 

The clarity of a diamond is graded on a scale ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). The higher the clarity grade, the fewer inclusions and blemishes the diamond has, and the more valuable and rare it is.

This is where the diamond clarity chart comes into play. The chart provides a visual representation of the various clarity grades, helping you understand how clarity affects a diamond`s appearance and value.

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How to Check Diamond Clarity

Before anything else, we`d like to point out that diamond inclusions and blemishes are not inherently bad.

Personally, in my almost five decades of being in this business, I`ve always looked at them as a diamond`s birthmarks unique natural characteristics that accompany diamonds from the moment they were formed.

However, it can`t be denied that some blemishes can impact a diamond`s value. Too many of them can negatively affect a diamond`s clarity, reducing its market price. That`s why clarity is an important aspect of diamonds.

There are several methods to check a diamond`s clarity.

Use a Loupe

A jeweler`s loupe, which typically has 10x magnification, allows you to inspect the diamond closely for inclusions and blemishes. 

When you do this, make sure you`re examining the diamond under bright lighting. Pay attention to the size, location, and type of inclusions and blemishes. Large or centrally located inclusions can significantly affect the diamond`s clarity grade. 

Diamond Clarity Chart

A diamond clarity chart, which we`ll talk about in more detail later on in this guide, is an invaluable tool when evaluating a diamond. With this chart, our professional jewelers here at Diamond Registry can gauge each diamond`s clarity objectively.

This chart categorizes diamonds into different grades based on the visibility and number of inclusions and blemishes. The clarity grades range from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). By referencing the clarity chart, you can understand where a diamond stands in terms of its clarity. 

For instance, a Flawless diamond has no visible inclusions or blemishes under 10x magnification, making it extremely rare and valuable. On the other hand, an Included diamond has noticeable inclusions that can affect its beauty and durability. 

Black Light Test

(source: Gemological Institute of America)

The black light test is another method to assess diamond clarity. Some inclusions in diamonds may fluoresce under ultraviolet (UV) light, indicating the presence of certain minerals. 

If you want to try this test, simply shine a black light on the diamond in a dark room. Check if it will glow in the dark this is called fluorescence, and it typically comes in blue hues. Fluorescence can impact a diamond`s appearance, so it`s essential to consider how it interacts with the diamond`s overall clarity and value.

Keep in mind that while a third of diamonds may show some degree of fluorescence, more than half don`t show any. Due to this, this test should only be used as a supplementary method along other tests.

Reflective Test

Diamonds have a very high refractive index. The reflective test, also known as the newspaper test, is a simple way to evaluate a diamond`s clarity. 

This test is fairly simply and straightforward to perform. Just place the diamond upside down on a piece of newspaper. High clarity diamonds will refract light more effectively, which means the text won`t be readable at all. Meanwhile, if you can still see the text or make it out, not only is the clarity poor, but there`s also a chance that the diamond is fake.

While this test is not foolproof, it provides a quick initial assessment of a diamond`s clarity. Combining this method with a professional evaluation with professionals like us here at Diamond Registry will give you a more accurate understanding of the diamond`s quality.

What is the Diamond Clarity Chart?

The diamond clarity chart is a visual representation of the clarity grades. It ranges from FL (Flawless) to I3 (Included). Each grade represents a specific level of clarity, with FL being the highest and I3 being the lowest.

Most grades appear nearly identical to the untrained eye, with differences becoming more apparent under magnification. These are FL (Flawless), IF (Internally Flawless), VVS1, VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included), VS1, and VS2 (Very Slightly Included), and even for someone like me who`s been in the business for over 40 years, they can still look quite identical at first glance.

That said, the differences lie in the visibility and severity of the inclusions and believe it or not, these minute differences can actually be more impactful than you`d think.

To understand what we`re talking about better, take a closer look at the diamond clarity scale. The scale helps determine how visible the inclusions are and how they affect the diamond`s overall appearance and value.

You`ll notice that the severity of imperfections doesn`t change proportionally, but if you check it against the diamond price list, the differences in prices can be exponential. 

That`s why we recommend learning how to read this chart this way, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and preferences.

What Are The Levels Of Clarity In Diamonds?

Diamond clarity, as mentioned above, refers to the presence of internal and external characteristics that occur naturally in diamonds. The keyword here is naturally these diamonds were already like this from the start.

Although minor, these characteristics can affect the diamond`s appearance and are graded on a scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3).

FL (Flawless)

A Flawless diamond has no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. These diamonds are extremely rare and highly valuable due to their exceptional clarity.

IF (Internally Flawless)

Internally Flawless diamonds have no inclusions visible under 10x magnification, but may have some surface blemishes. They are also rare and valuable, though slightly less so than Flawless diamonds.

VVS1 and VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included)

VVS diamonds have minute inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification. VVS1 diamonds have slightly fewer and smaller inclusions than VVS2 diamonds. Both grades offer excellent clarity and value.

VS1 and VS2 (Very Slightly Included)

VS diamonds have minor inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification but are often not visible to the naked eye. VS1 diamonds have fewer and smaller inclusions than VS2 diamonds. These grades offer good clarity and value.

Is VS1 or VS2 Better?

The difference between VS1 and VS2 is often negligible to the naked eye, so neither is inherently “better.” The choice between them depends on personal preference and budget.

SI1 and SI2 (Slightly Included)

SI diamonds have noticeable inclusions under 10x magnification, and may be visible to the naked eye. SI1 diamonds have fewer and smaller inclusions than SI2 diamonds. These grades offer acceptable clarity and are more budget-friendly.

Is SI1 or SI2 Better?

Similar to VS grades, the difference between SI1 and SI2 may not be significant to the naked eye. The choice between them depends on personal preference and budget.

I1, I2, and I3 (Included)

Included diamonds have obvious inclusions that are visible to the naked eye and can greatly affect transparency and brilliance. These grades are considered lower clarity and are more affordable.

Which is better, VVS or SI?

VVS grades offer higher clarity than SI grades, but the difference may not be noticeable without magnification. The choice between them depends on personal preference and budget.

Call our experts at +1 917 539 9007 for further assistance.

Do Higher-Clarity Diamonds Sparkle More?

While higher-clarity diamonds may have slightly more sparkle due to their ability to transmit light without obstruction, the difference in sparkle between clarity grades is often subtle and may not be noticeable to the naked eye.

Factors Affecting Diamond Clarity Grading

There are many factors that can influence how a diamond`s clarity is scored. Each of these factors come together to get to a true score. Here are those key elements.

Size

Size matters when it comes to clarity. In fact, I`d say that the size of inclusions is one of the most significant factors affecting a diamond`s clarity grade. 

Larger inclusions, of course, don`t just significantly lower the clarity grade, they`re also visible to the naked eye. A first-time owner may not notice it, but someone who spends a lot of time around diamonds might. For instance, many seasoned jewelers can take one close look at a diamond with large inclusions and point out its blemishes, even without the use of a loupe.

Aside from being visual distractions, these imperfections can disrupt the diamond`s brilliance and sparkle, which makes them even more apparent.

Number

The number of inclusions present in a diamond also plays a big role in determining its clarity grade. Simply put, a diamond with numerous inclusions will have a lower clarity grade than one with fewer imperfections.

Each inclusion, regardless of its size, contributes to the overall clarity assessment. Fewer inclusions often mean a higher clarity grade and a more valuable diamond. Meanwhile, multiple inclusions can create a cluttered appearance. They can easily reduce the diamond`s brilliance and aesthetic beauty.

Position

The position of inclusions within the diamond is another critical factor in clarity grading. 

Inclusions located near the center of the diamond are more visible than those near the edges. Central inclusions can significantly affect the diamond`s appearance since they`re also more likely to catch the light. And once they do, they can be quite noticeable.

In contrast, inclusions near the stone`s edges may be less noticeable. This means they`ll have a lesser impact on the diamond`s clarity grade as well.

Nature

The nature of inclusions refers to the type of imperfections present within the diamond. These can influence the overall clarity assessment, as some types having a more significant impact on the diamond`s grade

For example, certain types of inclusions, such as feathers or crystals, have a more visible or noticeable effect on the diamond as a whole. These are also my least favorite type of inclusions, personally, as they can ruin an otherwise good diamond.

Feathers are basically cracks from the inside of a diamond that can weaken its structure. On the other hand, crystals are mineral inclusions that can differ greatly in color and visibility, many of them visible even to the untrained eye.

Relief

Relief, sometimes also known as color, refers to the contrast between an inclusion and the surrounding diamond. High-relief inclusions are more noticeable and can lower the clarity grade. 

Inclusions with a strong contrast to the diamond`s body color or transparency are more visible and can detract from the diamond`s overall beauty. 

Low-relief inclusions, which blend in with the diamond, are less noticeable and have a lesser impact on the clarity grade. So, in short, the visibility of inclusions depends on their relief.

Which Diamond Clarity Is Best?

Honestly, the “best” diamond clarity depends on your priorities. It`s all subjective.

If you value rarity and are willing to pay a premium for a flawless appearance, Flawless (FL) or Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds are ideal. 

On the other hand, if you prioritize value and are willing to accept some minor inclusions that are not visible to the naked eye, a Very Slightly Included (VS1 or VS2) diamond may be a better choice.

What Is The Most Popular Diamond Grade?

The most popular diamond grades are typically in the Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) and Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) categories. These grades offer a good balance between clarity and value, with inclusions that are often not visible to the naked eye.

Clarity And the Other 4 Cs

Diamond clarity is one of the 4 Cs, which also include carat weight, cut, and color. Each of these factors contributes to a diamond`s overall appearance and value. We`ve dedicated entire guides here at Diamond Registry for each one so that you can learn them in more detail.

That said, here`s how the other Cs can affect clarity.

• Carat and clarity. Larger diamonds can show inclusions more clearly. Smaller diamonds can hide imperfections better.
• Cut and clarity. A well-cut diamond can hide minor inclusions by reflecting light in a way that masks imperfections. This can make a lower clarity grade less noticeable.
• Color and clarity. Inclusions are more visible in higher color grade diamonds since they also have less color. Lower color grades can sometimes mask these imperfections better.

How to Choose The Best Diamond Grade For You?

When choosing a diamond grade, we recommend thinking first about your budget, preferences, and intended use.

Again, like I said above, I don`t believe that there`s an objective “best” clarity. Even the highest clarity, Flawless, isn`t for everyone, i.e. people who want a diamond fast, people who don`t have sky-high budgets, and people who are looking for unique or cuts.

So, if you value rarity and are willing to pay a premium for a flawless appearance, a higher clarity grade may be ideal. However, if you prioritize size or other factors, our recommendation is to look for a lower clarity grade that`s still pleasing to the naked eye.

How Clarity Affects Diamond Prices

Diamond clarity has a significant impact on the price of a diamond. Diamonds with higher clarity grades, such as Flawless (FL) or Internally Flawless (IF), command higher prices due to their rarity and exceptional appearance. 

In contrast, diamonds with lower clarity grades, such as Included (I1, I2, I3), are more affordable but may have visible inclusions that affect their beauty.

Price Comparison of Different Clarity Grades

The price of diamonds varies significantly based on their clarity grades. 

Generally, Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds command the highest prices due to their rarity and lack of visible inclusions. Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) diamonds are more affordable and offer good value, as they typically have inclusions that are not visible to the naked eye. 

Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) diamonds are even more budget-friendly, although they may have more visible inclusions. Included (I1, I2, and I3) diamonds are the most affordable but may have visible inclusions that affect their appearance.

Tips for Most Value When Selecting Diamond Clarity

You probably already know by now that clarity is an important factor to consider. However, it`s not the only factor that determines the beauty and value of a diamond. Here are some tips to help you get the most value when choosing diamond clarity.

1. Consider a Slightly Included (SI) Grade

Despite what others may think, diamonds with a Slightly Included (SI) clarity grade can also provide excellent value yes, I said it.

While these diamonds may have inclusions visible under magnification, it`s possible to find some that are eye-clean. This means the inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. So, if you`re someone looking to balance quality and cost, SI-grade diamonds can be a great option.

2. Focus on Cut Quality

The cut quality of a diamond is important as it affects how light interacts with the stone. Remember, it`s the light that results in the sparkle and shine of a diamond, or any other gemstone.

A well-cut diamond can look significantly better due to the cut maximizing its brilliance and masking slight inclusions. In other words, a lower clarity but excellently cut diamond can still appear more brilliant than a higher clarity but poorly cut diamond.

It makes sense that prioritizing cut quality over clarity can be a smart way to ensure that your diamond looks stunning, even if it has minor imperfections.

3. Choose Smaller Diamonds for Lower Clarity

Inclusions are generally easier to spot in larger diamonds since the area you`re looking at is also bigger. This is why the larger the diamond, the harder and more expensive it is to find a higher clarity quality.

On the other hand, smaller diamonds have a smaller surface area and can hide minor inclusions better. This makes it possible to choose a lower clarity grade without necessarily compromising the diamond`s visual appeal. 

4. Prioritize Brilliance Over Clarity

A diamond`s brilliance, or its ability to reflect light, can often distract from clarity characteristics. As mentioned above, prioritizing a high-quality cut that maximizes brilliance can make inclusions less noticeable. 

Diamonds with excellent cuts will sparkle more. People`s attention will be drawn to their brilliance rather than their imperfections. This strategy can be especially effective for diamonds with lower clarity grades.

5. Consider Alternative Shapes

Fancy-shaped diamonds, such as ovals, pears, or emerald cuts, can often hide inclusions better than round diamonds. 

This is due to the unique faceting of these shapes. The result is that inclusions are also less visible, meaning you can choose a lower clarity grade without sacrificing its visual appeal.

Additionally, fancy shapes can offer a unique and distinctive look, providing an opportunity to stand out while still maximizing its value. 

6. Look for Eye-Clean Diamonds

Focusing on finding an eye-clean diamond, where inclusions are not visible to the naked eye, is also a great strategy. Instead of looking for a diamond with minimal inclusions, you can just look for a diamond that appears clean and clear when viewed without magnification. 

Simply put, eye-clean diamonds can offer the appearance of higher clarity grades at a more affordable price. This way, you can make sure that your diamond looks stunning in everyday wear even if you didn`t pay top price for it.

7. Consult with a Diamond Expert

Lastly, consider consulting with a diamond expert, like our seasoned professionals here at Diamond Registry.

Experiences jewelers already have the knowledge needed to find the best balance of clarity and value for your budget. We can guide you through the selection process, look for diamonds that are provide good value for their price, and even help you understand the nuances of clarity grading.

Diamond Registry`s Expert Tip

If you really want the best value for your money, our personal recommendation is that you consider a diamond with a clarity grade of VS1 or VS2. 

These diamonds offer a good balance between clarity and value, with inclusions that aren`t typically visible to the naked eye, particularly untrained ones. The best thing about this is that if you purchase a diamond with a lower clarity grade, it can free up your budget for other important things, like carat or cut.

That said, as someone who`s been in the industry for almost 50 years, here`s a summary of my overall thoughts about diamond clarity:

• You`ll have a hard time looking for genuinely Flawless diamonds, as they`re a real rarity. Remember, diamonds may be beautiful stones, but at the end of the day, they`re still stones. 99% of them will have a mark or two, and that`s completely normal.
• You can opt for a lower clarity if you`re sticking to a budget. Every single blemish on a diamond reduces its clarity, which in turn reduces its price.
• The lower the diamond`s brightness and “purity,” the lower its clarity score, and so the lower the price.
• Many of these so-called imperfections can`t be seen by the naked eye. If you don`t care about a diamond`s official clarity grading, this actually works to your advantage. You can choose a diamond that`s more budget friendly but still looks impeccable unless you look at it under a magnifying lens.

Diamond Clarity FAQs

More Diamond Clarity Related Articles

• What Are VS Diamonds And Their Prices?
• What Are VS1 Diamonds And Their Prices?
• What Are VS2 Diamonds And Their Prices?
• What Are VVS1 Diamonds And Their Prices?
• What Are VVS2 Diamonds And Their Prices?