Diamond Clarity Chart

What Is Diamond Clarity?

The unique way in which diamonds form can result in natural imperfections that may impact the beauty and value of these gemstones. These blemishes, also known as characteristics, are quantified and expressed through diamond clarity ratings assigned to individually graded diamonds. All Jayamargems graded diamonds are assessed along the diamond grading chart, receiving clarity ratings on a scale that ranges from slightly included to flawless.

The fewer visible imperfections a diamond has, the higher its diamond clarity rating. Clarity is one of the 4Cs of diamonds, with a diamond clarity scale that showcases how free of blemishes an individual diamond is.

The diamond clarity scale focuses on visible flaws above all else, as some flaws are so small that they can’t be seen with the unaided eye. Surface flaws are called blemishes, while internal characteristics are known as inclusions. In most cases, a diamond’s beauty is not affected by these in any way since many blemishes and inclusions can’t be seen without considerable magnification. Many jewelry settings, such as the prongs of engagement rings, can also help mask some blemishes and inclusions.

When referring to inclusions, gemologists often use the term “internal characteristics” instead of flaws. Internal characteristics are what give a diamond its character. It’s also important to note that diamonds with the fewest and smallest inclusions receive the highest clarity grades—and higher price tags to reflect that.

Remember, all diamonds are unique, not perfect. They are made through enormous pressure and heat. Natural inclusions and blemishes are inevitable.

Tips For Understanding Diamond Clarity

There are many misconceptions around the clarity of diamonds, including the belief that you need to buy a high clarity grade to avoid seeing imperfections. Another common falsehood is that a higher clarity grade results in more sparkle. Neither of these is true. Here are some tips to get you started on your diamond search:

• The term “eye clean” means that the diamond’s inclusions are too small to see without magnification.

• A good place to start your search and maximize your budget is with Slightly Included (SI) and Very Slightly Included (VS) grades because inclusions will not be readily noticeable without magnification.

• Diamond shape and size affect clarity. While clarity is less important than a diamond’s cut or color, if you are buying a diamond over one carat or considering certain fancy-shaped diamonds (like an emerald or Asscher cut where flaws are more visible), you may want to spend more for a higher clarity grade.

• Diamond clarity is an important characteristic that affects a diamond’s beauty. Like all of the 4Cs, diamond clarity is an important consideration when buying a diamond.

The Diamond Clarity Scale Spans 11 Clarity Grades

Diamond clarity is independently graded along a scale of 11 different grade types, from slightly included diamonds to flawless diamonds.

Because clarity is a leading factor in the value of diamonds, the diamond clarity grading chart was standardized in 1953 when Richard T. Liddicoat and colleagues established the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) diamond grading system and diamond clarity scale. The GIA diamond grading scale is divided into 6 categories and 11 diamond clarity grades.

Assuming all the other diamond gradings are the same, a diamond positioned higher on the diamond grading chart will carry higher value than more included diamonds.

Diamond Clarity Grades Explained

I1, I2, I3 – Included Diamonds

• I clarity diamonds have obvious inclusions that are likely to be visible and impact beauty
  

• Jayamargems does offer a limited selection of jewelry preset with I1 diamonds

SI1, SI2 – Slightly Included (SI) Diamonds

• Inclusions are noticeable at 10x magnification

• If eye clean, SI diamonds are often the best value

• SI2 inclusions may be detectable to a keen unaided eye, especially when viewed from the side

VS1, VS2 – Very Slightly Included (VS) Diamonds

• Minor inclusions ranging from difficult (VS1) to somewhat easy (VS2) to see at 10x magnification

• Great value; Jayamargems’s most popular diamond clarity

VVS1, VVS2 – Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS) Diamonds

• Minuscule inclusions difficult to see even under 10x magnification

• Rare clarity with eye clean appearance

Internally Flawless (IF) Diamonds

• No inclusions; only surface blemishes under magnification

• Visually eye clean

Flawless (FL) Diamonds

• No internal or external characteristics

• Less than 1% of all diamonds are FL clarity

The Five Diamond Clarity Factors

• Size – Larger inclusions lower clarity

• Number – Fewer inclusions increase clarity

• Position – Location impacts visibility

• Nature – Type of inclusion affects durability

• Color and relief – Contrast with surrounding diamond

Why SI Diamonds And VS Diamonds Are The Best Value

For the best balance of beauty and price, diamonds with SI or VS clarity grades offer excellent value. These diamonds often appear identical to higher clarity grades to the naked eye while being significantly more affordable.

How Diamond Shape Impacts Clarity

Step-cut diamonds like emerald and Asscher cuts show inclusions more clearly and benefit from higher clarity grades. Brilliant cuts such as round, oval, marquise, pear, heart, and princess naturally hide inclusions.

Diamond Size’s Influence on Clarity

As diamond size increases, inclusions may become more visible. Larger diamonds benefit from higher clarity grades.

The Diamond Clarity Plot

Diamonds over one carat receive a clarity plot with their GIA grading report. This plot maps inclusions and blemishes and accompanies certification.

Types Of Diamond Inclusions And Blemishes

Types Of Diamond Inclusions

• Clouds

• Feathers

• Crystals or minerals

• Knots

• Cavities

• Cleavage

• Internal graining

Types Of Blemishes

• Polish lines

• Scratches

• Nicks

• Pits

• Chips

• Breaks

• Dark or light spots

Final Notes

Every diamond is unique, and inclusions are a natural part of a diamond’s formation. With the right clarity grade, beautiful diamonds can be found at every price point.