Diamond Clarity Explained: What You Need and What You Can Skip

The Most Over-Purchased Diamond Characteristic

Diamond clarity refers to the presence (or absence) of natural inclusions and blemishes within and on the surface of a diamond. It is the characteristic that buyers most commonly overspend on — paying premium prices for microscopic features that are completely invisible to the naked eye.

The Clarity Scale

FL (Flawless): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. Extremely rare. Premium pricing. The difference between FL and VVS1 is invisible without laboratory equipment
IF (Internally Flawless): No internal inclusions, minor surface blemishes only. Also extremely rare
VVS1-VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included): Inclusions so minute they are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification. Absolutely invisible to the naked eye
VS1-VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Minor inclusions visible under 10x magnification but not visible to the naked eye. VS2 is the sweet spot for most buyers
SI1-SI2 (Slightly Included): Inclusions visible under 10x magnification and may be visible to the naked eye in larger diamonds. SI1 is often eye-clean in diamonds under 1.50 ct
I1-I3 (Included): Inclusions visible to the naked eye. Can affect brilliance and durability at the I2-I3 level. Generally not recommended for fine jewelry

The Key Concept: Eye-Clean

Definition: A diamond is eye-clean when no inclusions are visible to the naked eye when viewed face-up at normal viewing distance (approximately 6-12 inches)
The sweet spot: VS2 is eye-clean in virtually all diamonds regardless of size. SI1 is eye-clean in most diamonds under 1.50 ct
The implication: Buying above VS2 means paying for microscopic characteristics that provide zero visual benefit to the wearer or anyone looking at the ring

Price Impact

The price difference between VVS2 and VS2 can be 15-25% for the same carat weight, color, and cut
The visual difference: zero. Literally invisible to every person who will ever see the diamond
That 15-25% savings can buy a significantly larger diamond or a better cut grade — both of which ARE visible

When Clarity Matters More

Step-cut diamonds (Emerald, Asscher): Large, open facets create a window effect that makes inclusions more visible. Consider VS1 or better for step cuts
Large diamonds (3+ ct): Inclusions become easier to spot as the diamond gets larger. VS1 is safer for very large diamonds
Elongated shapes (Marquise, Pear): Inclusions near the points can sometimes be visible. Check the inclusion plot on the grading report