Clarity
Because diamonds are formed deep within the earth, they often contain unique birthmarks, either internal (inclusions) or external (blemishes). Diamond clarity refers to the absence of these inclusions and blemishes. Diamonds without these birthmarks are rare, and rarity affects a diamond's value. Using the GIA International Diamond Grading System™, diamonds are assigned a clarity grade that ranges from flawless (FL) to diamonds with obvious inclusions (I3). In the majority of cases, inclusions are caused by tiny black carbon crystals which can become trapped during the formation of the diamond.
The GIA Clarity Scale contains 11 grades, with most diamonds falling into the VS (very slightly included) or SI (slightly included) categories. In determining a clarity grade, the GIA system considers the size, nature, position, color or relief, and quantity of clarity characteristics visible under 10× magnification.
Like the Color Grading Scale, GIA's Clarity Grading System was developed because jewelers were using terms that were easily misinterpreted, such as "loupe clean," or "piqué." Nowadays, wherever you purchase your diamond, the jeweller will use terms such as VVS1 or S12, regardless of the country or language.
| FL(Flawless) No inclusions or blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10× magnification |
| IF (Internally Flawless) No inclusions and only blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10× magnification |
| VVS1 and VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included) Inclusions are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10× magnification |
| VS1 and VS2 (Very Slightly Included) Inclusions are clearly visible under 10× magnification but can be characterized as minor |
| SI1 and SI2(Slightly Included) Inclusions are noticeable to a skilled grader using 10× magnification |
| I1, I2, and I3(Included) Inclusions are obvious under 10× magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance |