What are the Grades of Clarity for a Diamond?

Diamond clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or flaws in a diamond. A diamond with few inclusions is very rare and highly valued. Diamond clarity is graded based on the number, location, size, and type of the inclusions found in a diamond. Inclusions can be white, clear, cloudy, or even black.

This is accomplished by gemologists using a 10x magnification loupe, inspecting the diamond for flaws. With this magnification, the gemologist can document the size and location of each inclusion, and then assign the diamond a clarity rating.

F – IF: Flawless. Perfect diamond clarity. This is very rare, and the diamond would be quite exquisite.

VVS1 – VVS2: Very Very Slightly Imperfect. Inclusions are extremely difficult to see, even with 10x magnification. This is rare, and the diamond would be exquisite.

VS1 – VS2: Very Slightly Imperfect. Inclusions in the diamond can be seen only by using magnification. This is a very good diamond clarity score and a high-quality diamond.

SI1 – SI2: Slightly Imperfect. Inclusions in the diamond can be seen under 10x magnification. This is a good quality diamond.

I1 – I2 – I3: Imperfect. The diamond clarity suffers from flaws that are visible to the naked eye.

Olschwanger Designs focuses on obtaining high-quality, ideal cut stones with very high diamond clarity scores. These stones top off the unique and personal designs that we create specially for each customer.

Clarity and the Eye Test

In most cases, the diamond should pass the “eye clean” test. This means that even though a diamond may have internal imperfections, nothing can be seen to the naked eye. Only with a jeweler’s loupe can an inclusion be detected.

Call Olschwanger Designs

Call us at 972-458-8352 to discuss your jewelry needs during a private one-on-one consultation with a custom jewelry designer.