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Diamond Clarity

Diamond "Clarity" History

In addition to developing and implementing the color scale, GIA also developed a scale for diamond clarity.  This was done to create consistency within the industry.  In the past, jewelers used terms that were easily misinterpreted such as "loupe clean."  The terms used today are done so worldwide.

The GIA clarity scale consists of 11 grades ranging from flawless to included.  When determining a diamond's clarity grade, GIA considers the size, nature, color, position, and quantity of clarity characteristics under 10x magnification.  The lesser the number of inclusions or blemishes a diamond has, the higher clarity grade it will receive.  A diamond with no inclusions using 10x magnification will be considered flawless and is very rare and more costly.

Inclusions

An inclusion is a clarity characteristic either totally enclosed in a polished diamond, reaching or extending into it from the surface, or one that is caused by treatments or the cutting process.  Note - Inclusions caused by treatments or the cutting process may not always be documented on the diamond certificate.

Types of Inclusions

Blemishes

A blemish or external clarity characteristic is on the surface of the diamond only and can be caused by wear, the cutting process, or may be a result of the diamond's crystal structure.  Blemishes play a lesser role than inclusions do when determining the clarity grade, but may affect the polish grade.

Types of Blemishes

Grading Scale and Diamond Clarity Recommendations

Diamond Clarity Grading Scale

FL:

Flawless - no blemishes or inclusions under 10x magnification.

IF: Internally flawless - no inclusions and only very minor surface blemishes.
VVS1: Very, very slightly included - very, very small microscopic inclusions extremely difficult to see under 10x magnification.
VVS2: Very, very slightly included - very, very small microscopic inclusions extremely difficult to see under 10x magnification.
VS1: Very slightly included - very small microscopic inclusions difficult to see under 10x magnification.
VS2: Very slightly included - very small inclusions somewhat easy to see under 10x magnification.  These diamonds represent a good value to someone looking for a high quality diamond, as the very small imperfections do not affect the beauty of the diamond.
SI1: Slightly included - small inclusions that are easy to see under 10x magnification.  This clarity is an excellent choice for someone looking to stay within a budget, but wants a diamond that will look as good as a higher clarity diamond except when viewed under magnification.
SI2: Slightly included - small inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification.  Depending on their location within the diamond, they may sometimes be visible to the unaided eye without magnification.  SI2 diamonds are attractively priced and typically no visible difference can be seen without magnification.

If you are interested in an SI2 diamond and would like us to personally verify it is eye-clean, give us a call at 1-800-979-1910.
I1* Included - imperfect with inclusions that are obvious to the unaided eye and may affect the diamond's durability.
I2* Included - imperfect with inclusions that are very obvious to the unaided eye and may affect the diamond's durability.
I3* Included - imperfect with inclusions that are extremely obvious to the unaided eye and pose a definite threat to the diamond's durability.

*At Since1910.com, we will not sell I1, I2, and I3 clarity diamonds.

Note – Asscher cut, Emerald cut and Cushion cut diamonds do not display the brilliance of other cuts and due to their larger table facet are more likely to show visible inclusion in the SI1 and the SI2 grades.  This is especially true if the inclusions are in the center of the diamond.  If you are considering this type of diamond we recommend that you have a Since1910.com Graduate Gemologist examine the diamond before you make a purchase..


 Learn about Diamond Cut
 Learn about Diamond Color
 Learn about Diamond Carat Weight
 What is our Conflict Diamond Policy?

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