Clarity


What Is Diamond Clarity?

The unique way in which diamonds form can result in natural imperfections that may impact the beauty and value of these gemstones. These blemishes, also known as characteristics, are quantified and expressed through diamond clarity ratings assigned to individually graded diamonds. All Blue Nile graded diamonds are assessed along the diamond grading chart, receiving clarity ratings on a scale that ranges from slightly included to flawless.

The fewer visible imperfections a diamond has, the higher its diamond clarity rating. Clarity is one of the 4Cs of diamonds, with a diamond clarity scale that showcases how free of blemishes an individual diamond is.

The diamond clarity scale focuses on visible flaws above all else, as some flaws are so small that they can’t be seen with the unaided eye. Surface flaws are called blemishes, while internal characteristics are known as inclusions. In most cases, a diamond’s beauty is not affected by these in any way since many blemishes and inclusions can’t be seen without considerable magnification.

When referring to inclusions, gemologists often use the term “internal characteristics” instead of flaws. Internal characteristics are what give a diamond its character. It’s also important to note that diamonds with the fewest and smallest inclusions receive the highest clarity grades—and higher price tags to reflect that.

Remember: all diamonds are unique, not perfect. They are made through enormous pressure and heat. Natural inclusions and blemishes are inevitable.

Tips For Understanding Diamond Clarity

  • The term “eye clean” means that the diamond’s inclusions are too small to see without magnification.
  • A good place to start your search are mid-range clarity levels. Slightly Included (SI) and Very Slightly Included (VS) grades because the inclusions will not be readily noticeable without magnification.
  • Diamond shape can affect clarity visibility. Keep this in mind. Certain shapes (like emerald or Asscher cut) have fewer facets and reflect more light, making inclusions more visible.
  • Diamond clarity is an important characteristic that affects a diamond’s beauty. Clarity is an important consideration when buying a diamond.

The Diamond Clarity Scale Spans 11 Clarity Grades

Diamond clarity is independently graded along a scale of 11 different grade types, from slightly included diamonds to flawless diamonds.

I1, I2, I3 Included Diamonds

  • Clarity diamonds have obvious inclusions that are likely to be visible and impact beauty.
  • Blue Nile does not sell clarity grade I3 diamonds for engagement ring designs.
  • Blue Nile does offer a limited selection of jewelry preset with I1 diamonds.

SI1, SI2 Slightly Included (SI) Diamonds

  • Inclusions are noticeable at 10x magnification.
  • If eye-clean, SI diamonds are often the best value.

VS1, VS2 Very Slightly Included (VS) Diamonds

  • Minor inclusions ranging from difficult (VS1) to somewhat easy (VS2) to see at 10x magnification.
  • Great value. Blue Nile’s most popular diamond clarity.

VVS1, VVS2 Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS) Diamonds

  • VVS diamonds have minute inclusions that are difficult even for trained eyes to see under 10x magnification.

Internally Flawless (IF) Diamonds

  • Some small surface blemishes may be visible under a microscope on IF diamonds.

Flawless (FL) Diamonds

  • No internal or external characteristics.
  • FL diamonds are incredibly rare because it’s nearly impossible to find a diamond 100% free of inclusions.

The Five Diamond Clarity Factors

A diamond’s clarity rating is influenced by five specific factors:

  • Size: The larger or more noticeable a characteristic, the lower the likely clarity grade.
  • Number: This is the number of easily seen characteristics. Having fewer characteristics means a higher clarity grade.
  • Position: The position of a given characteristic within the diamond anatomy will impact the rating.
  • Nature: Refers to the type of inclusion and its impact on durability.
  • Color and relief: A measure of how easily a characteristic is seen, or how much contrast it has between the characteristic and surrounding diamond.

Why SI Diamonds And VS Diamonds Are The Best Value

While the extremely rare Flawless (FL) or Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds are the highest quality diamond clarity, you may want to consider a diamond that won’t break the bank.

How a Diamond’s Shape Impacts Its Clarity

Some diamond shapes require a higher clarity grade than others. Emerald and Asscher-shaped diamonds are designed with rectangular facets that emphasize transparency and let you see farther down into the diamond.

Diamond Size’s Influence on Clarity

As diamond size increases, the size of the facets (the multiple mirror-like surfaces on the diamond) become more abundant. This can make inclusions more visible.

The Diamond Clarity Plot

Diamonds over one carat in size receive a diamond clarity plot alongside their GIA grading report. The diamond clarity plot is a map of a stone’s inclusions, blemishes and characteristics.

Popular Diamond Clarity Grades

Our VS (Very Slightly Included) and SI (Slightly Included) diamonds are our most popular choices.

Sizing Up Clarity

The smaller a diamond, the more difficult it typically is to see any inclusions or blemishes.

You Can Learn More About A Diamond’s Characteristics (Inclusions/Blemishes)

Any characteristics that don’t get factored into the diamond’s assigned grade may still be noted on the GIA grading report or clarity plot (if there is one).

There Are Many Different Types Of Diamond Inclusions And Blemishes

Types Of Diamond Inclusion:

  • Clouds
  • Feathers
  • Crystals or minerals
  • Knots
  • Cavities
  • Cleavage
  • Internal graining

Types Of Blemish Examples:

  • Polish lines
  • Scratches
  • Nick
  • Pits
  • Chips
  • Breaks
  • Dark or light spots