Diamond clarity is one of the "4 Cs" used to grade the quality of diamonds. The clarity of a diamond indicates how free the diamond is from internal flaws or defects. These flaws are often called inclusions.
The following chart uses the clarity grades as defined by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) using 10X power magnification, proper lighting, and trained personnel.
Grade |
Definition |
F1 |
Flawless (or Loupe clean) |
IF |
Internally Flawless |
VVS1, VVS2 |
Very, Very Slightly Included |
VS1, VS2 |
Very Slightly Included |
S1, S2 |
Slightly Included |
I1, I2, I3 |
Imperfect |
The following is a list of internationally recognized gemological institutes used to grade diamonds:
- Scan DN (Scandinavian Diamond Nomenclature)
- GIA (Gemological Institute of America)
- AGS (American Gem Society)
- HRD (Hoge Raad voor Diamant, Diamond High Council of Belgium)
- CIBJO (Confederation of Jewelry, Silverware, Diamonds, Pearls, Stones)
F1
No inclusions or blemishes. Flawless diamonds are usually kept in safes or museums as ordinary wear could cause these diamonds to lose their flawless status.
IF
No inclusions and only insignificant blemishes. These grade of diamond may be difficult to obtain.
VVS
Minute inclusions that are difficult to see through a 10X loupe.
VS
Minor inclusions that range from difficult to somewhat easy to see through a 10X loupe.
SI
Noticeable inclusions as seen through a 10X loupe.
I1
Inclusions are barely visible to the unaided eye through the crown. A good choice if you are on a limited budget.
I2
Inlusions are easily visible to the unaided eye and may affect the durability of the diamond. This grade is often used in discount diamond jewelry.
I3
Diamond looks shattered or muddy gray or whitish. These diamonds are on the threshhold of being acceptable for jewelry. This grade is sometimes called industrial grade.