I1, I2, I3

Included 1, 2 or 3

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Diamond Clarity Chart

Welcome to the website dedicated to the diamond clarity chart. Clarity, one of the 4 Cs of diamonds, is an important but often misunderstood diamond quality measure. Since diamonds occur in nature, they tend to have “inclusions.” These are flaws, or imperfections occurring inside or on the surface of the diamond, which may impact the overall appearance of the diamond. Inclusions are made up of crystals, minerals, cracks, and man-made marks. The location, quantity and size of inclusions determine a diamond’s clarity rating.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) diamond clarity grades range from FL clarity, for flawless to I3 clarity, for included 3. The full range is below.

Diamond clarity grades

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By Caroline Anguilano

Many consumers do not know the difference between an SI2 and a VVS1 diamond and whether or not this difference matters. However, all else being equal, a 1 carat SI2 diamond can cost up to half the price of a similar VVS1 clarity diamond. That’s the equivalent to several thousand dollars.

Diamond clarity chart understanding is critical when buying a diamond. It is easy to misunderstand how diamond clarity differs between the naked eye and under a jeweler’s loupe at 10x magnification.

A jeweler’s loupe is used to examine the diamond clarity under 10x magnification and assign a grade. If you care about diamond clarity, then it is important to understand how to use a jeweler’s loupe. You can use one in-person or online. Yes – it’s possible to look at actual diamonds online through a jeweler’s loupe. Practicing using a jeweler’s loupe online rather than trying to learn at the jewelry store is always a good idea.

Diamond clarity charts are displayed on this site under 10x magnification, unless otherwise specified. This is important to remember because diamond clarity generally has the least impact on diamond appearance. Diamonds in the I1, I2, I3 do contain inclusions that may significantly impact appearance but that is the bottom of the diamond clarity chart. For the remainder of the chart, differences in diamond clarity are practically impossible to notice with the naked eye. It requires 10x magnification and a trained eye in order to identify inclusions.

Look for internal and external flaws impacting the diamond clarity rating. If you are buying online, then the diamond should come with a certificate that provides a sketch, also known as an inclusions chart, of the diamond’s clarity. Imperfections impacting diamond clarity include feathers, needles, chips, scratches, abrasions, and more. For the full list, visit the diamond clarity chart page.

Practice using a jeweler’s loupe and try and identify the imperfections. If you are buying a diamond online, look at the diamond clarity chart on the certificate – if one is available. Ideally, you can look at the actual diamond photo underneath a jeweler’s loupe in order to inspect the imperfections. If you are using a loupe in person, then also check the certificate’s inclusions map for reference. Also, remember to keep both eyes open when looking through a jeweler’s loupe and evaluating diamond clarity.

Another diamond clarity tip is to always consider how important diamond clarity should be for you. If you do not plan to put the diamond under 10x magnification and only care about how it looks to the naked eye then an SI2 – VS1 may be your best option. If, however, you are prefer to have a higher quality diamond with less – or no- imperfections then a VVS2 – FL may be more appropriate. Only you will be able to determine the optimal diamond quality for your particular situation.