What Is Diamond Clarity?
Clarity describes inclusions, which are marks inside a stone, and blemishes, which are marks on its surface. Almost every diamond has some marks, formed as the crystal grew.
Clarity is graded under 10x magnification by a trained grader, who judges the number, size, position, and visibility of the marks.
The Clarity Scale
The scale runs from flawless at the top, through internally flawless and very slightly included grades, to slightly included and included grades at the bottom, where marks are easier to see.
| Grade | What it means |
|---|---|
| FL / IF | Flawless or internally flawless. No visible marks under 10x magnification. |
| VVS1 / VVS2 | Very slightly included. Marks are very difficult to see under magnification. |
| VS1 / VS2 | Very slightly included. Marks are difficult to see under magnification. |
| SI1 / SI2 | Slightly included. Marks are noticeable under magnification, usually not to the eye. |
| I1 / I2 / I3 | Included. Marks are visible to the eye and can affect brightness. |
What Does Eye-Clean Mean?
Eye-clean means no marks are visible to the unaided eye at a normal viewing distance, face-up. Many VS and SI stones are eye-clean, even though marks exist under magnification.
Position matters more than count alone. A mark under the table is more visible than a mark near the edge, where a prong or bezel can hide it.
How to Choose a Clarity Grade
Start with VS or SI grades and look at the stone face-up, without magnification, in normal light. If you cannot see marks, a higher grade adds cost without a visible difference.
Avoid stones where a large inclusion sits under the table or where marks could affect durability, and always check the grading report for the specific stone.
Diamond Clarity Guide FAQ
What is the best clarity grade?
FL is the highest grade, but VS and SI stones often look identical to the eye and cost much less.
What does eye-clean mean?
No marks are visible to the unaided eye at a normal viewing distance, face-up.
Do inclusions affect sparkle?
Large or poorly placed inclusions can reduce brightness, but small, well-placed marks usually do not.
Should I pay for flawless?
Only if a flawless grade matters to you personally. For appearance alone, an eye-clean VS or SI stone is usually the better value.
Can clarity change over time?
Clarity does not change with normal wear, but a stone can chip if it is hit hard, especially near the girdle.