Diamond, Engagement Ring, and Jewelry Buying Guides
Diamond Clarity
Most diamonds have unique clarity characteristics, much
like a fingerprint. These distinguishing characteristics can be
classified as inclusions and blemishes. Inclusions are enclosed within
a diamond, or they extend into the diamond from its surface. Blemishes
are confined to the diamond's surface. These characteristics can
detract from the pure beauty of the diamond. When light enters a
diamond, it is reflected and refracted out. If there is anything
disrupting the flow of light in the diamond, such as an inclusion, a
proportion of the light reflected may be lost.
Diamond Guide
Diamond Cut
Diamond Color
Diamond Clarity
Carat Weight
Diamond Certification
Diamond Care
GIA and AGS Clarity Grade Scale
GIA
AGS
Image
Description
Price*
FL - IF
0
Flawless and Internally Flawless
Flawless: No inclusions or blemishes of any sort under 10X
magnification. Internally Flawless: No inclusions, but some minor
blemishes.
$6,775
$6,450
VVS1-VVS2
1 - 2
Very Very Slightly included
Contains minute inclusions that are very difficult to see under 10X magnification, even for an experienced grader.
$6,175
$5,850
VS1 - VS2
3 - 4
Very Slightly included
Contains minute inclusions when observed with effort under 10X
magnification. An excellent value as there is no noticeable difference
to the unaided eye from VVS.
$5,700
$5,650
SI1 - SI2
5 - 6
Slightly Included
Contains inclusions noticeable under 10x magnification. An SI1 should
not have any eye visible inclusions, but SI2 may, depending on the size
and location of the flaws.
$5,000
$4,500
I1 - I2 - I3
7 - 8 - 9
Included
Contains inclusions that are obvious under 10X magnification and
possibly to the unaided eye. IcedTime does not carry I-grade clarity.
Not
Available
* Price based on 1 ct., H color, ideal-cut diamond.
As illustrated above, you may not notice a significant difference
between an SI1 and a SI2. However, you should consider the number,
size, brightness, nature, and position of the inclusions of an SI2
graded diamond to ensure that it is eye clean. Some inclusions can be
hidden by a prong when mounted, thus having little effect on the beauty
of a diamond. An inclusion in the middle or top of a diamond, however,
could impact the dispersion of light, sometimes making the diamond less
brilliant.
Our diamond consultants can inspect an SI2 graded diamond
to ensure that it is eye clean before your purchase. For assistance,
please contact one our diamond consultants toll free at 1-877-539-5395
or email us.
