Diamond Clarity
Natural diamonds happen when carbon becomes exposed to tremendous heat and pressure deep in the earth. This process can result in a variety of internal characteristics called inclusions and external characteristics called blemishes.
Diamond Clarity Chart
What is the clarity of a diamond
- Flawless (FL) - No inclusions and no blemishes visible under 10x magnification
- Internally Flawless (IF) - No inclusions visible under 10x magnification
- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2) - Inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification
- Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) - Inclusions are observed with effort under 10x magnification, but can be characterized as minor
- Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) - Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification
- Included (I1, I2, and I3) - Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification which may affect transparency and brilliance