Diamond Education

Diamond Clarity Grades Explained

Diamond clarity describes internal characteristics, called inclusions, and surface features, called blemishes. A clarity result considers how those features appear under the applicable grading conditions.

The grade is not simply a count of visible marks. Their size, number, location, nature, and visibility all matter.

The familiar clarity categories

GIA's clarity scale uses these categories under 10x magnification:

- Flawless (FL): a skilled observer finds neither internal features nor surface blemishes at 10x.

- Internally Flawless (IF): the 10x examination reveals no inclusions, but surface blemishes can remain.

- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): locating the inclusions requires considerable effort from a skilled observer.

- Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): minor inclusions vary in how readily they can be located.

- Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): a skilled observer can notice the inclusions at 10x.

- Included (I1, I2, and I3): prominent inclusions at 10x can also influence transparency and brilliance.

Why the actual stone still matters

An enlarged image can make a small characteristic appear dominant. Ordinary viewing can reveal a different impression. Conversely, an untrained observer may have difficulty locating a feature recorded in the report.

Ask a jeweler to help connect the written result with what can be seen in the particular diamond.

What eye-clean means in a conversation

Eye-clean should not be assumed to identify a standardized laboratory grade. Ask what the seller means: which viewing distance, lighting, direction, and observer are being considered?

If the statement matters to your decision, compare the actual item under agreed conditions. Do not silently substitute it for the report's clarity wording.

Reading a clarity diagram

Where a report includes a plotted diagram, use it as a map of recorded characteristics. It is not a photograph or a promise that every symbol will be equally noticeable without magnification.

Read the legend and comments. If a feature raises a question about durability or planned jewelry work, seek advice about that specific item.

Keep clarity in balance

Clarity is one part of the diamond's description. Review it with the other quality information, the measurements, and the appearance you prefer.