Diamond Clarity Guide
Diamond clarity describes internal inclusions and surface blemishes. This guide translates the clarity scale into practical buying advice, including which grades look eye-clean and where you can save money.
What Diamond Clarity Actually Means
Clarity is graded by how visible inclusions are under 10x magnification, not by whether they exist at all. Nearly every diamond has tiny internal features; the question is whether you can see them without a loupe. Flawless stones are rare and expensive, while VS and SI stones look identical to most people.
The Clarity Scale at a Glance
| Grade | Visibility | Value Advice |
|---|---|---|
| FL / IF | No inclusions under 10x | Collector pricing, rarely needed |
| VVS1 / VVS2 | Very difficult to see | Premium but mostly unnecessary |
| VS1 / VS2 | Hard to see under 10x | Great balance of value and quality |
| SI1 / SI2 | Visible under 10x, eye-clean usually | Best budget choice for engagement |
Which Clarity Grade Looks Eye-Clean
For round brilliants, SI1 is eye-clean in the vast majority of stones. For step cuts such as emerald and asscher, choose VS2 or better because the open table makes inclusions easier to spot. Always check the certificate plot, not just the grade.
Our certified lab-grown stones come with full clarity plots, and we will send a macro photo of the actual stone before production. See current options in rings or ask WhatsApp for guidance.
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Get a Free Quote Chat on WhatsAppFrequently Asked Questions
Is SI1 clarity good enough for an engagement ring?
Yes. Most SI1 round brilliants are eye-clean, and the savings let you afford a better cut or a larger carat.
What clarity do jewelers recommend?
VS2 to SI1 is the value sweet spot. There is no visible benefit to VVS or FL for most buyers.
Can I see the inclusions in an SI1 diamond?
Only under magnification. If an SI stone is not eye-clean, the certificate plot and a macro photo will show you exactly where the inclusion sits.