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Clarity Scale

  • Clarity refers to a diamond’s relative position on a flawless-to-included scale, which is important to a diamond’s overall quality. Clarity characteristics are classified as inclusions (internal) or blemishes (external). Very few diamonds are flawless; that is, they show no inclusions or blemishes when examined by a skilled grader under 10 time’s magnification. If other factors are equal, flawless diamonds are the most valuable. On average, less than 1% of diamonds mined are inclusion-free.
  • A diamond’s grading of clarity is divided into the following levels:
  • Clarity Grades Clarity Names Characteristics
    FL& IF Flawless and Internally Flawless No inclusions can be detected under a 10x magnifying glass. Only less than 1% of all stones mined are Flawless. Flawless diamonds are extremely rare and highly valued. Internally Flawless diamonds are equally ranked in terms of rarity and usually come with minor polish details as stated under Comments section of GIA’s diamond reports.
    VVS1 & VVS2 Very Very Slight Included Only an expert eye may detect very slight inclusions under 10 time’s magnification. High quality stones, ideal for long term investment.
    VS1 & VS2 Very Slight Included One of the most popular clarity grade, inclusions may not be detected by naked eye. Even under a 10 time’s magnifying glass, inclusions within a VS1 or VS2 diamond may not be easily detected. Suitable for long term investment.
    SI1 & SI2 Slight Included Flaws are easily detected under a 10 time’s magnification and may be seen by the naked eye. SI1 or SI2 grade diamonds of higher purity are more suitable for short term investment.
    I1,I2 & I3  Imperfect Contains impurities detected by naked eye. 
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