Not sure whether to pay more for a higher clarity diamond? It's always better to understand diamond clarity when you are spending a good amount on a diamond! Certified Diamonds Vancouver buyers look at come with a clarity grade on the report, and most diamonds with a VS2 or SI1 clarity grade look clean to the naked eye. This means you can save on clarity and spend it on a better cut or a bigger diamond. Keep reading the next sections to find out more about the diamond clarity grades and the eye clean diamond.
What is Diamond Clarity?
The diamond clarity refers to the absence of inclusions and blemishes in a diamond. Inclusions are the small marks inside the diamond and blemishes are the marks on the outside of the diamond. These marks are formed when the diamond grows, and almost every diamond has some of them. Diamond clarity is graded by a gemologist under 10x magnification.
Diamond Clarity Grades Explained
The GIA diamond clarity scale has 11 diamond clarity grades. Here's the diamond clarity grades explained:
- FL (Flawless): No inclusions or blemishes under 10x magnification.
- IF (Internally Flawless): No inclusions inside, only very small blemishes on the outside.
- VVS1 and VVS2: Inclusions are very hard to see even under 10x magnification.
- VS1 and VS2: Small inclusions that can be seen under 10x magnification but usually not with the naked eye.
- SI1 and SI2: Inclusions can be seen under 10x magnification and sometimes with the naked eye.
- I1, I2 and I3: Inclusions can be seen with the naked eye.
You can also read our blog on how to measure diamond clarity with the diamond clarity chart to see the diamond clarity grades in more detail.
Which Diamond Clarity Grade Looks Clean to the Eye?
An eye clean diamond refers to a diamond in which you cannot see any inclusion without magnification. It should not be confused with a flawless diamond, as an eye clean diamond can still have inclusions that are seen under 10x magnification. All diamonds from FL to VS1 are eye clean and most VS2 diamonds are also eye clean. SI1 diamonds can be eye clean, but every SI1 diamond should be checked as some may have an inclusion that you can see. SI2 and lower diamond clarity grades are often not eye clean.
For most engagement rings, the VS2 or SI1 diamond clarity is regarded as the best value as these grades look clean to the naked eye and cost less than higher clarity grades. You should note that the place of the inclusion also matters, as an inclusion near the edge of the diamond is easier to hide under a prong than an inclusion in the centre!
Does Diamond Shape Change the Clarity You Need?
The diamond shape also changes the diamond clarity grade that you need. Brilliant cut shapes like round, oval, pear, cushion and princess have many small facets that hide inclusions well, so a VS2 or SI1 diamond clarity is enough for these shapes. Step cut shapes like emerald and Asscher have long and open facets that show inclusions more easily, so a VS1 or higher diamond clarity is better for these diamond shapes.
Clarity of Lab Grown Diamonds
Lab grown diamonds are graded on the same diamond clarity scale as natural diamonds. Many lab grown diamonds have a high diamond clarity grade and they cost less than natural diamonds of the same clarity. Every diamond at SMC Diamonds is certified and laser inscribed, so you can check the diamond clarity grade on the report!
FAQs on Diamond Clarity
What is the best diamond clarity for an engagement ring?
VS2 or SI1 is regarded as the best value diamond clarity for an engagement ring as these grades usually look clean to the naked eye.
Is SI1 diamond clarity eye clean?
Many SI1 diamonds are eye clean, but each SI1 diamond should be checked as some may have a visible inclusion.
What diamond clarity is best for an emerald cut diamond?
A VS1 or higher diamond clarity is better for emerald cut diamonds as their long facets show inclusions more easily.
Final Thoughts
The diamond clarity grade, the place of inclusions and the shape of the diamond are integral to choosing an eye clean diamond. If you are still not sure, the best way is to see diamonds of different clarity grades side by side at a trusted diamond store.
See Eye Clean Diamonds in Person
See certified diamonds side by side at SMC Diamonds. Visit our Vancouver showroom or message us on WhatsApp. Book an appointment today!