Diamond Clarity
Clarity is referred to as the purity or quality of a diamond and is the relative measurement of the inclusions and blemishes as determined by a gemologist using a special scope and a 10x magnification loupe.
The Diamond Clarity Scale & Chart
It is the visibility, number and size of these inclusions that determine the diamond's clarity grade. The better the clarity of a diamond is, the greater the brilliance and it also increases the value or price of the diamond.
Diamond clarity is measured on a scale from Flawless (FL) or Internally Flawless (IF) to Included (I1, I2, and I3). Each of these characteristics are plotted on a diamond diagram that is included on the diamond's grading certificate.
| Flawless | |
| Internally Flawless | |
| Very Very Slightly Included | VVS1 VVS2 |
| Very Slightly Included | VS1 VS2 |
| Slightly Included | SI1 SI2 |
| Included | I1 I2 I3 |
Which clarity grade should I choose?
Most people seem to think they need to purchase a diamond with a clarity grading no lower than VS2, however, we believe you can go as low as I1 depending on the diamond’s shape and where the inclusions are located. The jump in price from an SI2 to VVS1 clarity is significant but with an SI, you could still have an “eye clean” diamond on your hands without the high price tag.
Below is a sample clarity diagram that shows how inclusions and other characteristics will be represented on your diamond certificate.
Have you ever heard the term ‘prong inclusions’? This is an insider tip when it comes to deciding on the clarity of your diamond. A prong inclusion is an inclusion that has formed around the outer edges of a diamond. The term ‘prong inclusion’ is referring to the ability to ‘cover’ these blemishes with a prong when setting the diamond into a ring. If your budget won’t allow a higher clarity diamond, no problem, just request a diamond with "prong inclusions" and our personal shoppers would be happy to help.
