When you assess the diamond clarity, various factors come into play such as the number, size, relief, nature, inclusions, and surface blemishes. The impact of these attributes on the overall appearance of the diamond is crucial in determining its clarity.
When searching for the best clarity in a diamond, it’s essential to acknowledge that absolute purity is quite rare. However, the closer a diamond comes to being pristine, the higher its clarity rating.
The GIA Diamond Clarity Scale consists of six main categories. Some of them are also further divided, resulting in a total of eleven specific grades to precisely evaluate the clarity of a diamond. Let us have a closer look at those categories:
A Detailed Explanation Of 6 Categories
- Flawless (FL): This signifies no inclusions as well as no blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
- Internally Flawless (IF): This category indicates no inclusions visible under 10x magnification.
- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): This category has very slight inclusions. Under 10x magnification, in many instances, even skilled graders find them challenging to detect.
- Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): This classification refers to inclusions that are perceptible under 10x magnification with some effort. However, they can be characterized as minor.
- Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): This category has inclusions and they are noticeable under 10x magnification.
- Included (I1, I2, and I3): You can see obvious inclusions under 10x magnification which may affect transparency and brilliance.
Eye-Clean Definition
Apart from the 6 categories and diamond clarity chart, there are other ways to measure diamond clarity. So let us focus on why many individuals seek an “eye-clean” diamond. This term implies that the diamond has no inclusions visible to the naked eye.
It can be defined as no inclusions are perceivable with the unaided eye when viewed from the face-up position in daylight equivalent or fluorescent lighting, from a distance of 6 to 12 inches, using 20/20 vision.
Eye Clean Clarity Chart
Under internationally recognized standards, round brilliant diamonds with a clarity grade of VS2 or higher are consistently considered eye-clean. However, for shapes that tend to reveal inclusions more prominently, such as step cuts like emeralds and Asscher diamonds, assessing the VS2 clarity should be done on a case-by-case basis.
The Best Clarity Grade vs. The Best Clarity Grade for You
When delving into the world of diamonds, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by technical details. While seeking answers to specific questions, you may receive technically accurate information, but it could lead to making less-than-ideal diamond purchase decisions. A prime example of this is the query, “What is the best clarity grade for a diamond?”
At first glance, the answer might seem straightforward. A Flawless (FL) diamond, the highest clarity grade attainable, appears to be the ultimate choice—something to aim for or get as close to as possible. However, this assumption is misleading!
In reality, the diamond clarity grade often carries little practical significance. Below, we’ll delve into all the technical parameters relating to clarity, but the most crucial factor boils down to this: Can you perceive any inclusions with your naked eye once the diamond is set in the ring? That’s the paramount consideration. Everything else, with a few exceptions, is just unnecessary noise.
How Do I Know A Diamond Is Eye-Clean?
Diamonds with a clarity grade of VS1 and higher are typically considered eye-clean, meaning they have no visible inclusions to the naked eye.
For round brilliant diamonds, a clarity grade of VS2 and higher generally ensures eye cleanliness, although there may be rare exceptions.
On the other hand, SI1 and SI2 diamonds may have visible inclusions but the level of visibility can vary. It’s important to note that assessing eye cleanliness for SI1 or SI2 diamonds cannot be determined solely from videos or photographs.
Some vendors provide information about whether an SI1 or SI2 diamond is eye-clean according to their own definition, often mentioned on the diamond’s detail page.
Buying Tips For Diamond Clarity
When purchasing a diamond, consider these factors to ensure you get the best value and beauty, particularly when it comes to clarity.
Avoid Overpaying
Be cautious not to overspend on clarity. Often, a VS1 or VS2 diamond will be just as eye-clean as an FL diamond but at a significantly lower cost. Instead of fixating on a specific clarity grade, opt for the lowest grade that still presents an eye-clean diamond. Allocate your budget towards factors that have a more profound impact on a diamond’s beauty, such as its cut quality.
Aim for Optimal Diamond Clarity
The ideal diamond clarity grade mainly depends on the diamond shape. Certain diamond shapes excel at concealing inclusions and imperfections better than others.
Here are specific recommendations to maximize value:
Round Cut Diamond
The intricate facet pattern of the round brilliant cut excels in minimizing the visibility of inclusions. For round brilliant cut diamonds under 1 carat, consider a clarity grade of VS2 or SI1 (sometimes even SI2 doesn’t have visible inclusions). For Round Cut diamonds 1 carat or larger, a VS1 or VS2 clarity grade will provide an eye-clean appearance. Keep in mind that larger diamonds (considering their carat weight) might reveal inclusions more easily.We trust that our insights into the diamond clarityscale have assisted you in making an informed decision. If you seek further guidance on diamond clarity, don’t hesitate to visit Uniglo Diamonds today.