Diamond Education

Diamond Clarity

Understanding Clarity

Clarity is among the four Cs - cut, colour, carat and clarity - each an important factor when purchasing your diamond engagement or wedding ring. Clarity grade measures a diamond’s visual inclusions, blemishes or lack thereof. These might be crystals, feathers, pinpoints, clouds, cavities, internal graining, scratches, pits, nicks, chips or other imperfections. Seldom do these impact the diamond’s appearance as viewed by the unaided eye.

FI/IF

VVS1/VVS2

VSI/VS2

SI1/SI2

Diamond Emporium Diamonds

I1

I2/I3

We do not carry these diamonds

Clarity is broken down into six general categories and 11 individual grades. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond clarity using 10X magnification. From highest to lowest, clarity grades are:

Flawless

FI
Grade F diamonds are of superior quality, with minute traces of colour detectable by only a trained gemmologist

Very, Very slightly included

VVS1 & VVS2
Grade F diamonds are of superior quality, with minute traces of colour detectable by only a trained gemmologist

slightly included

SI1 & SI2
Inclusions that are noticeable to an experienced grader.

Internally Flawless

IF
No internal flaws. Slight external blemishes

Very Slightly Included

VS1 & VS2
Minute inclusions. Not easily seen by an experienced grader.

included

I1,I2 & I3
Obvious inclusions that may affect transparency and brilliance. These diamonds are not carried by Diamond Emporium

Our gemologist tips

If value is a top priority, you may want to consider compromising on clarity down to grade SI1. Clarity reduction is recommended over similar concessions in cut, colour or carat given imperfections are usually undetectable to the naked and untrained eye.

It is, however, always advisable to seek expert advice from a certified gemmologist or accredited professional before making your final decision involving any sort of quality