Diamond Clarity
Diamond Clarity
What is diamond clarity and what does it mean?
Diamond clarity is the assessment of imperfections within a diamond. Stones with fewer defects receive higher clarity grades and are more valuable. Surface flaws are known as blemishes, while internal defects are inclusions. Understanding clarity helps you choose a diamond that perfectly suits your preferences.
How Diamond Clarity Is Measured
Diamond clarity is graded by examining the stone under 10x magnification, the industry standard for assessment. Experts evaluate a combination of factors to determine a diamond’s overall clarity:
- Size – The scale of the imperfections present.
- Number – How many imperfections are visible.
- Position – Where the imperfections are located within the diamond.
- Nature – The type of imperfection, such as a feather or a cloud.
- Relief – The degree of contrast between the imperfection and the diamond itself.
Together, these factors determine how clean and brilliant the diamond appears, and ultimately, its clarity grade.
Diamond Clarity Scale
Diamond clarity is graded on the GIA Diamond Clarity Scale, the most widely recognised standard in the world. This scale ranges from FL (Flawless) to I (Included), with subgrades that indicate how visible inclusions are under 10x magnification. Each grade reflects the size, position, and visibility of these inclusions, which directly influence both the rarity and value of the diamond.FULL NAME
Flawless
Internally Flawless
Very Very Slightly Included
Very Slightly Included
Slightly Included
Included
DIAMOND
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GRADE
FL
IF
VVS1 / VVS2
VS1 / VS2
SI1 / SI2
I1 / I2 / I3
| Grade | Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|
| FL / IF | Flawless | No inclusions visible under 10x magnification. |
| VVS1 / VVS2 | Very Very Slightly Included | Extremely difficult to detect inclusions. |
| VS1 / VS2 | Very Slightly Included | Minor inclusions visible under magnification. |
| SI1 / SI2 | Slightly Included | Inclusions visible under 10x magnification. |
| I1 / I2 / I3 | Included | Inclusions visible to the naked eye. |
Diamond Colour and Clarity
- Clarity affects how light passes through a diamond.
- Colour ranges from colourless to light yellow or brown.
When balanced correctly, colour and clarity work together to create a beautiful and visually appealing stone.
Shop with SuperCarats
Understanding diamond clarity helps you choose the perfect stone. Explore our collection of fine diamond jewellery and shop with confidence.