Diamond Clarity Explained: What Should You Choose?

Buying a diamond involves more than choosing a beautiful shape or the right carat weight. You also need to understand diamond clarity and how it affects a stone’s appearance and price.

You may have seen grades such as FL, VVS1, VS2, and SI1 while browsing diamond jewelry. These letters and numbers can look confusing at first. However, understanding them can help you compare diamonds more confidently.

The good news is that you do not always need the highest clarity grade to find a beautiful diamond. Some diamonds have tiny inclusions that are difficult to see without magnification. Others have visible characteristics that affect their transparency or appearance.

This guide explains the diamond clarity scale, what each grade means, and how to choose a grade that fits your budget. You will also learn how clarity works alongside cut, color, and carat weight when buying diamond jewelry.

What Is Diamond Clarity?

Diamond clarity describes the relative absence of internal characteristics called inclusions and external characteristics called blemishes. These features develop during a diamond’s formation or can result from cutting, polishing, and wear.

Inclusions may include tiny crystals, feathers, clouds, or other internal features. Blemishes can include surface marks, scratches, and other irregularities.

Some characteristics are so small that they are difficult to see even with magnification. Others are more noticeable and may affect how a diamond looks.

Professional graders evaluate clarity under controlled conditions using 10× magnification. They consider the characteristics’ size, number, position, nature, and visibility.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses an internationally recognized clarity scale with 11 grades, ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3).

Clarity is one of the four Cs of diamond quality. The other three are cut, color, and carat weight. These factors work together, so it is important to evaluate the whole diamond rather than focusing on one grade alone.

The Diamond Clarity Scale Explained

The GIA clarity scale contains six main categories, with some categories divided into two or three grades.

1. Flawless (FL)

A Flawless diamond has no inclusions or blemishes visible to a skilled grader using 10× magnification.

These diamonds are exceptionally rare. Their rarity can make them expensive, particularly when they also have desirable color, cut, and carat weight.

However, a Flawless grade does not automatically mean a diamond will look more brilliant than every lower-clarity stone. Cut quality plays a major role in how a diamond reflects light.

2. Internally Flawless (IF)

An Internally Flawless diamond has no inclusions visible to a skilled grader at 10× magnification. Minor surface blemishes may still be present.

IF diamonds are also rare and can command premium prices. Whether the difference is worthwhile depends on your preferences and budget.

If you are choosing between an IF diamond and a lower-clarity diamond that looks equally attractive to you, compare the price difference carefully.

3. Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)

VVS diamonds have minute inclusions that are extremely difficult or very difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10× magnification.

VVS1 is the higher of these two grades, while VVS2 has slightly more noticeable clarity characteristics under magnification.

These grades appeal to buyers who want very high clarity. However, the difference between a VVS diamond and a well-selected VS diamond may not be obvious during normal viewing.

If you are working with a limited budget, consider whether paying extra for VVS clarity would make a meaningful difference to your experience of the finished jewelry.

4. Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)

VS diamonds contain minor inclusions that range from difficult to somewhat easy for a skilled grader to see under 10× magnification.

VS1 is higher than VS2, but both grades can offer attractive options.

Some VS diamonds appear clean to the unaided eye. Others may have characteristics that are visible under particular lighting or viewing conditions.

This is why looking at the actual stone matters. Two diamonds with the same clarity grade may differ in the type, location, and visibility of their inclusions.

For many shoppers, VS clarity is a useful starting point when comparing beauty and cost.

5. Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)

SI diamonds have inclusions that are noticeable under 10× magnification. Depending on the individual stone, some characteristics may also be visible without magnification.

An SI1 diamond may appear eye-clean, while another SI1 diamond may have a noticeable inclusion near its center. SI2 stones can have more obvious characteristics, although the appearance varies.

These grades may provide budget flexibility if you carefully inspect the actual diamond.

Pay attention to inclusion location, transparency, and how the stone looks from the top. If you are buying online, request clear videos or magnified photographs and confirm the return policy.

6. Included (I1, I2, and I3)

Included diamonds have clarity characteristics that are obvious under 10× magnification and may be visible to the unaided eye.

Inclusions can affect transparency and brilliance. In some cases, a characteristic may also raise concerns about durability.

These diamonds can cost less than higher-clarity alternatives. However, inspect the individual stone carefully before deciding whether the savings justify any visible compromises.

For jewelry you plan to wear frequently, ask a qualified jeweler whether the inclusions could create a structural concern.

Diamond Clarity Chart: A Quick Comparison

Grade	What it means	What to consider
FL	No inclusions or blemishes visible at 10×	Extremely rare; may carry a premium
IF	No inclusions visible at 10×	Surface blemishes may remain
VVS1–VVS2	Minute inclusions, very difficult to see	High clarity, often a higher price
VS1–VS2	Minor inclusions	Inspect the individual stone for eye cleanliness
SI1–SI2	Noticeable inclusions under magnification	Some stones may offer good value
I1–I3	Obvious inclusions under magnification	Check visibility, transparency, and durability

This chart is a simplified overview, not a substitute for a grading report or a close inspection of an individual diamond.

What Is the Best Diamond Clarity Grade to Choose?

There is no single clarity grade that is right for every diamond buyer. Your best option depends on the stone’s appearance, your budget, the jewelry design, and how closely you inspect the diamond.

Choose VS clarity if you want a balanced starting point

VS1 and VS2 diamonds can be good candidates if you want to balance appearance and price.

Some stones in these grades have inclusions that are difficult to notice without magnification. Still, do not assume every VS diamond is eye-clean.

Review the actual stone and compare it with alternatives before making your decision.

Consider SI1 if you want more budget flexibility

An SI1 diamond may be worth considering when its inclusions are not noticeable during normal viewing and do not raise concerns about transparency or durability.

The key is to evaluate the individual diamond rather than choosing SI1 based on the grade alone.

Ask the seller for clear photographs, videos, and the grading report. Make sure the stone looks attractive to you in realistic viewing conditions.

Choose VVS if very high clarity is important to you

VVS1 and VVS2 may suit buyers who place a high priority on clarity and are comfortable paying for that feature.

However, remember that a higher clarity grade does not automatically produce better sparkle. A well-cut diamond with a lower clarity grade may look more lively than a poorly cut diamond with a higher grade.

Choose FL or IF if rarity matters to you

FL and IF diamonds may appeal to collectors or buyers who specifically value these clarity grades.

They are not necessary for everyone. If your priority is a beautiful diamond for everyday wear, compare their cost with diamonds that look similarly attractive at lower clarity grades.

Be especially careful with visible inclusions

If you are considering an I-grade diamond, inspect it closely. Ask about the location and type of its inclusions, and whether they affect transparency or could create a durability concern.

A lower price should not be the only reason to choose a stone.

What Does “Eye-Clean Diamond” Mean?

An eye-clean diamond is a diamond whose inclusions are not visible to the unaided eye under the viewing conditions being used.

The term is common in the jewelry trade, but it is not a formal GIA clarity grade. Its meaning can vary depending on the seller’s inspection method and viewing conditions.

For example, a diamond may appear eye-clean from a normal viewing distance but reveal an inclusion when viewed closely under bright lighting.

If eye cleanliness matters to you, ask the seller to explain how the stone was evaluated. Request a video showing the diamond from the top and other angles, ideally in more than one lighting condition.

Also remember that eye-cleanliness does not tell you everything about a diamond. It does not replace the grading report, cut assessment, or examination of potential durability concerns.

How Diamond Clarity Affects Price

Clarity can affect diamond pricing because diamonds with fewer or less noticeable clarity characteristics are generally rarer.

When other factors are comparable, a diamond with a higher clarity grade will often cost more than one with a lower grade. The exact price difference depends on the stone’s other characteristics and current market conditions.

For example, you might compare two diamonds with similar carat weight, color, shape, and cut quality. If one is VVS2 and the other is VS2, the higher-clarity stone may carry a premium.

Whether that premium makes sense depends on how much the clarity difference matters to you.

Instead of paying for the highest available grade automatically, compare the actual appearance of both stones. You might prefer to allocate part of your budget to a better cut, a larger stone, or a setting you love.

There is no universal rule that says a particular clarity grade offers the best value for every buyer. Your goal is to understand what you are paying for and choose a diamond that meets your needs.

Does Diamond Shape Affect Clarity?

Yes, diamond shape can influence how easily inclusions are noticed. Different shapes have different facet patterns, proportions, and areas where characteristics may become more or less apparent.

Round brilliant diamonds are designed to return light efficiently when well cut. Their facet pattern may make some inclusions less noticeable, although this depends on the individual stone.

Step-cut shapes, such as emerald and Asscher cuts, often have broad, open facets. These can make some inclusions easier to see, so close inspection is particularly useful.

Oval, pear, marquise, princess, and cushion shapes all have their own visual characteristics. None guarantees that inclusions will be hidden.

When comparing fancy shapes, look beyond the grade. Review the stone’s face-up appearance, transparency, and the position of any inclusions.

How Clarity Works With the Other Three Cs

Diamond clarity should not be evaluated in isolation. Cut, color, and carat weight also affect appearance and price.

Cut

Cut influences how a diamond handles light. A well-cut diamond can show strong brightness, fire, and scintillation.

If sparkle is your main priority, pay close attention to cut quality instead of spending your entire budget on clarity.

Color

Color grading for many white diamonds measures how close a diamond is to colorless. The effect of color depends on the stone and your preferences.

Compare color and clarity together. A combination that looks beautiful to you may be more practical than maximizing one grade at the expense of everything else.

Carat weight

Carat measures weight, not the exact visible size of a diamond. Measurements and proportions also influence how large a stone appears face-up.

If you want a larger diamond within a particular budget, compare clarity options carefully. You may find a lower clarity grade that looks attractive without obvious inclusions.

For a complete overview, explore our related article, Diamond Jewelry: The Complete Buying Guide, and compare all four Cs before making your choice.

How to Choose Diamond Clarity When Buying Online

Shopping online gives you access to many diamonds, but it can be difficult to assess inclusions from a single photograph.

Use these steps to compare options more confidently:

1. Read the grading report. Confirm the clarity grade and check that the report details match the diamond listing.
2. Inspect the actual stone. Look for high-quality images and videos rather than relying on a generic product photograph.
3. Ask about inclusions. Find out where the inclusions are located and whether they affect the diamond’s appearance or structural integrity.
4. Compare similar stones. Evaluate diamonds with similar shape, carat weight, color, and cut characteristics.
5. Check the return policy. Understand the return window, conditions, and any restocking or shipping fees.
6. Review the setting. Some settings protect more of the diamond’s edge than others. Ask whether the design suits your intended use.
7. Keep your documentation. Save the grading report, receipt, and product details.

If a seller cannot explain a grade or answer reasonable questions, consider comparing other options.

Common Diamond Clarity Buying Mistakes

Paying for the highest grade without comparing appearance

FL and IF grades are rare, but a higher grade is not automatically the best choice for every shopper. Compare the actual diamond and decide whether the price difference matters to you.

Assuming every VS or SI diamond is eye-clean

Clarity grades describe a range of characteristics. Stones within the same grade can look different, so inspect the individual diamond.

Ignoring cut quality

Clarity is only one part of diamond quality. A high clarity grade cannot compensate for every issue with cut, proportions, or light performance.

Relying only on product photographs

Photographs can be affected by lighting, magnification, and editing. Request additional views and read the grading report.

Forgetting about durability

Some inclusions are mainly visual, while certain characteristics may deserve closer attention. Ask a qualified professional to assess any potential structural concern.

Frequently Asked Questions About Diamond Clarity

Is VS1 better than VS2?

VS1 is the higher clarity grade. However, the practical difference between two individual diamonds depends on their inclusions, overall appearance, and price. Compare the actual stones before deciding.

Is VVS better than VS?

VVS grades are higher on the clarity scale than VS grades. Their inclusions are generally more difficult to see under 10× magnification. Whether the price premium is worthwhile depends on your priorities.

Is SI1 clarity good for a diamond?

An SI1 diamond can be attractive, but quality varies from stone to stone. Check whether its inclusions are visible to the unaided eye and whether they affect transparency or durability.

Can you see diamond inclusions without a microscope?

Some inclusions are too small to see without magnification, while others may be visible to the unaided eye. Visibility depends on the characteristics, lighting, viewing distance, and individual diamond.

Does diamond clarity affect sparkle?

It can, especially if inclusions affect transparency or light passing through the stone. However, cut quality is a major factor in sparkle, so consider both when comparing diamonds.

Is diamond clarity more important than carat?

Neither is universally more important. The right balance depends on whether you prioritize visible size, clarity, cut, color, or overall budget.

Should I buy a flawless diamond?

A Flawless diamond may suit someone who specifically values that rare grade. Many buyers can find beautiful options at lower clarity grades, particularly when the inclusions are not noticeable during normal viewing.

Final Thoughts: Choose the Clarity Grade That Suits You

Understanding diamond clarity makes it easier to compare stones and avoid paying for features that may not matter to you.

FL and IF diamonds occupy the top of the scale, while VVS, VS, SI, and Included grades describe diamonds with progressively more noticeable clarity characteristics. The appearance of each individual stone still matters.

Start with your budget, decide what you want your diamond to look like, and compare clarity alongside cut, color, and carat weight. Ask for a grading report, inspect the stone carefully, and confirm the seller’s return terms.

For many buyers, the most satisfying choice is not simply the diamond with the highest grade. It is the diamond whose appearance, documentation, quality, and price fit their needs.

Explore our other diamond buying guides to learn more about diamond earrings, necklaces, and the differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds before making your final choice.