Diamond Clarity Chart Explained: Inclusions & Grading Guide
Today we’re talking about one of the four C’s of diamond grading: clarity. As the name implies, clarity refers to how many inclusions or blemishes the diamond contains, and whether or not these imperfections are visible to the eye or only under magnification. Let’s learn about how the diamond clarity chart works and what determines each grade.
Some helpful vocab for this post:
- Clarity: The absence or presence of imperfections within the diamond or outside of the
diamond. - Inclusions: Internal imperfections within the diamond that form naturally during its
creation. - Blemishes: Imperfections on the outside of the diamond that may happen during the
cutting or polishing process. - Eye-Clean: A diamond with no visible inclusions to the naked eye when viewed from the
top. - Facet: The flat surface that is cut at an angle in order to reflect light. The arrangement of
facets determine the way the stone interacts with light, giving the diamond its brilliance or
sparkle.
How is a Diamond Graded on Clarity?
To determine a diamond’s clarity, whether natural or lab-grown, the stone must first be graded
by a professional laboratory. The most well-known and respected diamond grading authority is
the GIA, or the Gemological Institute of America.
An expert at the GIA will examine your diamond under a 10x microscope and assign it a clarity
scale below, ranging from FL (Flawless) down to Included (I1-I3). Generally diamonds between
FL through VS2 are considered “eye-clean,” but depending on the location and type of
inclusions, diamonds through SI can be extremely clean. Here at Lauren B, take pride in hand-
picking GIA graded diamonds that are eye clean through the SI range.
Learn more about GIA grading here
Why are there multiple grades within certain categories?
Certain diamond inclusions are more visible than others due to their size, color and location
within the stone. Because of this, the difference between say an SI1 and SI2 lies in the type and
quantity of inclusions present in the diamond. For example, small inclusions like pinpoints are
mostly invisible to the naked eye, while carbon spots appear as black dots, and can be more
noticeable.
Again this all depends on the individual stone – at Lauren B we carefully curate our in-stock
natural diamonds, including SIs that are generally eye-clean. SI clarity stones are the sweet spot
where a budget conscious buyer can save big on a beautiful diamond. It’s all about going to the
right jeweler!
Every GIA report, included with all Lauren B natural and lab-grown diamonds, features a section
called Clarity Characteristics. This includes a graphic of the diamond from a top-down view with
symbols marking the location of inclusions within the diamond and a key explaining the type of
inclusion.
Example below of a VS2 stone:
Despite the inclusions marked, this stone will appear eye-clean.
What Causes Inclusions Within Diamonds?
Mother nature is messy. When it comes to natural diamonds at least, the heat and pressure
required to form a diamond deep within earth’s surface can cause certain imperfections during
the growth process. Either other minerals or crystals can become trapped within the stone, or
the heat and pressure can cause stress cracks. In short, every diamond has its own journey told
by each scar it contains- kind of like us!
What are some common inclusions?
- Pinpoint: A very tiny white or black dot within the diamond. Pinpoints are typically invisible
to the naked eye. - Crystal: a mineral trapped within the diamond. It can either be colorless or appear white or
even black. - Cloud: A group of pinpoints in a cluster which can create a hazy appearance in large
groupings - Feather: A small crack or fracture that looks like a white feather
- Needle: a long inclusion that has the appearance of a hair or needle.
Are Inclusions More Visible In Certain Shapes?
Yes! Step-cut diamonds can be slightly less forgiving when it comes to clarity. Because of their
open, mirror-like facets, step cuts are more “see through” than brilliant cuts. Brilliant facet
patterns better hide certain inclusions that may be more visible in a step-cut diamond. If you’re
opting for a step cut shape like Emerald or Asscher, you may want to consider investing in a
higher clarity grade.
Understanding the diamond clarity chart can help you make a more confident, informed
decision when shopping for the perfect stone. Remember: clarity is just one part of the
equation, and with the right jeweler (hi, that’s us!), you can find a stunning diamond that meets
all of your standards and within your budget!
Have questions about clarity or want help picking the perfect stone? We’re always here to help 🙂