Diamond Clarity
When we speak of a diamond's clarity, we are referring to the presence of identifying characteristics on and within the stone. While most of these characteristics are inherent qualities of the rough diamond and have been present since the earliest stages of the crystal's growth below ground, a few are actually a result of the harsh stress that a diamond undergoes during the cutting process itself.

If you think about the incredible amount of pressure it takes to create a diamond, it's no surprise that many diamonds have inclusions-scratches, blemishes, air bubbles or non-diamond mineral material-on their surface or inside. Diamonds with no or few inclusions and blemishes are more highly valued than those with less clarity, not just because they are more pleasing to the eye, but also because they are rarer.

How are Diamonds Created for Clarity
Diamonds are graded for clarity under 10x loupe magnification. Grades range from Internally Flawless, diamonds which are completely free of blemishes and inclusions even under 10x magnification, to Imperfect 3, diamonds which possess large, heavy blemishes and inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. F-IF-Flawless or Internally Flawless. This diamond has no internal inclusions. Very rare.

Illustrations are representative only; most inclusions are not visible to naked eye.

VVS1-VVS2 - Very Very Slighty included. Very difficult to detect under 10x magnification.

VS1-VS2 - Very Slighty included (two grades). Minute inclusions invisible to the naked eye and seen only with difficulty under 10x magnification.

SI1-SI2 - Slightly Included (two grades). Minute inclusions Can be seen under 10x magnification and in some cases, in SI2, inclusions are visible to the naked eye.

I1-I2-I3 - Included (three grades). Inclusions visible under 10x magnification as well as to the human eye.

While the presence of these clarity characteristics do lower the clarity grade, and therefore the value, of a diamond they can also be viewed as proof of a diamond's identity. GIA certificates include what is known as a "plot" of a diamond's inclusions. Since no two diamonds are exactly the same, comparing the uniqueness of your diamond's clarity characteristics with the plot provided on the diamond certificate offers assurance that the diamond you pay for is the same diamond you receive.

Which Clarity Should I Choose?
While Flawless diamonds are the rarest, and arguably the most beautiful diamonds, a diamond does not have to be completely clean to be extremely attractive. Those diamonds with VVS and VS grades can be excellent choices as well. More affordable are those diamonds which gemologists call "eye-clean" - diamonds with no inclusions visible to the naked eye. These diamonds as SI or SI2.

The table below demonstrates the effect that clarity has on diamond pricing, assuming carat, cut and color remain the same.