Diamond Clarity

The clarity of a diamond is related to its purity. In other words, the freer the diamond is of imperfections, the more rare and more valuable the stone becomes. Diamonds are graded using a universal grading scale for clarity that was designed by Robert M. Shipley of the Gemological Institute of America in the 1940's. The grading scale takes into account the ease of finding inclusions, as well as the number, nature, and location of the inclusions. A summery and explanation of the clarity scale can be found below.

FL (Flawless)

No inclusions or external blemishes can be found by a skilled grader, using 10x magnification.

IF (Internally flawless)

No inclusions, only slight surface blemishes, can be found by a skilled grader, using 10x magnification.

Vvs1 (Very, Very slightly included 1)

Extremely difficult to find minute inclusions by a skilled grader, using 10x magnification.

Vvs2 (Very, Very slightly included 2)

Very difficult to find minute inclusions by a skilled grader, using 10x magnification.

Vs1 (Very Slightly included 1)

Difficult to see minor inclusions by a skilled grader, using 10x magnification.

Vs2 (Very slightly included 2)

Somewhat difficult to see minor inclusions, using 10x magnification.

Si1 (Slightly included 1)

Easy to find noticeable inclusions, using 10x magnification.

Si2 (Slightly included 2)

Very easy to find noticeable inclusion, using 10x magnification.

I1 (Imperfect 1)

Obvious and or multiple inclusions under 10x magnification. Often visible to the unaided eye.

I2 (Imperfect 2)

Obvious and or multiple inclusions, easily visible by the unaided eye.

I3 (Imperfect 3)

Extremely obvious and multiple inclusions, extremely easy to see with the unaided eye; Can affect durability.

Read more about the 4Cs: Cut | Clarity | Color | Carat | Certification