What Is Diamond Clarity?

Diamond clarity is a measure of how free a diamond is from inclusions and blemishes. The best way to evaluate diamond clarity is by using a 10x magnification loupe by a trained gemologist. The GIA and IGI are the most reputable labs that assigns clarity grades ranging from Included to Flawless.

The most common inclusions are clouds, graining, cavities and feathers. These inclusions can affect the diamond's brilliance and sparkle. Clarity is an important factor in determining a diamond's value, as a higher clarity grade usually indicates a more valuable diamond. However, it's important to note that no diamond is entirely pure, but the closer it gets to purity, the higher the clarity grade, and the more valuable the diamond.

What Are The Diamond Clarity Rating?

FL/IF (Flawless/Internally Flawless): These are the diamonds of the highest clarity grade; even under 10x magnification, they have no visible inclusions. Flawless diamonds are priced the highest.

VVS1 (Very Very Slightly Included 1): These diamonds contain very tiny inclusions that are only spotted under careful 10x magnification.

VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included 2): Diamonds from this category have tiny inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification but are still invisible to the human eye.

VS1 (Very Slightly Included 1): These diamonds have small inclusions that are not visible to the naked eye but can be seen under 10x magnification. VS2 (Very Slightly Included 2): These diamonds contain small inclusions that are not visible to the naked eye but may be seen under close examination under the microscope. At Magdalene Pivoine, we don't carry diamonds with a clarity grade below VS2. Read more here.

SI1 (Slightly Included 1): These diamonds contain small inclusions that are visible to the naked eye.

SI2 (Slightly Included 2): These diamonds have inclusions that are usually visible to the naked eye.

What Are Inclusions?

Why Is Diamond Clarity Important? 

The clarity of a diamond affects its sparkle and appearance when exposed to light. More inclusions reduce the diamond's brilliance. Keep in mind that no diamond is completely pure, but the closer it is to purity, the clearer it appears. The importance of clarity also depends on the diamond's shape, size, and other factors. In step-cut shapes like emerald cut and asscher cut, the shallower pavilion and open table highlight the clarity, making inclusions more visible. In bigger carats, inclusions are also more noticeable due to larger facets.