Not All Inclusions Are Created Equal
Diamond inclusions are natural features — tiny crystals, feathers, clouds, or other characteristics that formed while the diamond grew (whether in the earth or in a laboratory). The clarity grade tells you how severe these inclusions are, but the type and location of inclusions matter just as much as the grade itself. Here is what you need to know.
Common Inclusion Types
- Pinpoint: A tiny crystal (usually white) inside the diamond. Single pinpoints are almost always invisible without magnification. The most common and least impactful inclusion
- Cloud: A cluster of many tiny pinpoints grouped together. Small clouds are harmless. Very large clouds can create a hazy or milky appearance that reduces brilliance
- Feather: A small crack or fracture inside the diamond. Minor feathers are cosmetically invisible. Feathers that reach the surface or are very large can affect durability
- Crystal: A mineral crystal trapped inside the diamond during growth. Dark crystals are more visible than white or transparent ones. Location matters — a dark crystal under the table facet is more visible than one near the girdle
- Needle: A long, thin crystal that looks like a tiny needle. Usually white and invisible without magnification. Multiple needles can create a slight haze if concentrated
- Twinning wisp: A series of pinpoints and short needles that formed during crystal growth irregularities. Usually only visible under magnification
The Eye-Clean Rule
- FL-IF (Flawless/Internally Flawless): No inclusions visible under 10x magnification. Extremely rare and expensive. Beautiful but not necessary for beauty
- VVS1-VVS2: Inclusions extremely difficult to see under 10x. Absolutely eye-clean. Premium price for minimal visual benefit over VS grades
- VS1-VS2: Inclusions visible under 10x but not to the naked eye. The sweet spot — eye-clean at a reasonable price. Most recommended clarity grade
- SI1: Inclusions visible under 10x and sometimes barely visible to the naked eye. Many SI1 diamonds are still eye-clean. Worth examining individually
- SI2-I1: Inclusions may be visible to the naked eye. Requires careful selection. Some SI2 diamonds are eye-clean; many are not
Location Matters
- An inclusion under the table (center) is more visible than one near the edge
- Inclusions hidden by prongs become invisible once set
- Dark inclusions are more noticeable than white or transparent ones
- The cut grade matters — an excellent cut can mask minor inclusions with sparkle
The Practical Approach
Buy the lowest clarity grade that is eye-clean. For most diamonds, that is VS2 or SI1. The money saved on clarity can be invested in better cut quality, which has a far greater impact on how beautiful the diamond looks.