Clarity
Diamond clarity is a measure of how free the stone is of flaws, either inside the stone or on the surface. These flaws are referred to as ‘inclusions’ and are present in most stones. Only diamonds of the highest quality are free of inclusions.
Inclusions in a stone generally take the form of small discolored specks inside the stone, and many consider them to be part of the character of the diamond. Inclusions are often hidden by the setting, so don’t let the presence of minor inclusions put you off a stone straight away.
Clarity is measured on a scale from ‘F’ to ‘I’, with the letter(s) describing the grade of the stone as follows as below. Grades F through to SI will decrease in value as you go down the scale but it will be hard to detect a difference without magnification.
F – Flawless
These are extremely rare.
IF – Internally Flawless
No internal flaws, but might have minor surface flaws. Very rare.
VVS1 – VVS2 – Very Very Slightly Included
There are two grades in this category, with 1 being a higher grade than 2. Very small inclusions, difficult to detect under 10x magnification.
VS1-VS2 – Very Slightly Included
There are two grades in this category, with 1 being a higher grade than 2. Small inclusions seen with difficulty under 10x magnification.
SI1-SI2 – Slightly Included
Again two grades with 1 being higher. Small inclusions more easily seen under 10x magnification.
I1-I2-I3 – Included
Three grades, with 1 being the highest. Inclusions visible to the human eye without magnification.