Clarity grade measures the number, size, and position of the inclusions found at 10x magnification in a diamond. Inclusions are natural birthmarks or imperfections present in diamonds.
Clarity grades for diamonds are Fl, IF, VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, SI2, I1, I2, and I3; from least included to most included.
- FL (Flawless) No imperfections
- IF (Internally Flawless) no imperfections in the diamond; but some minor surface imperfections that could be removed with polishing
- VVS1 and VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included) VVS diamonds contain minute inclusions that are difficult for even a skilled grader to find under 10x magnification.
- VS1 and VS2 (Very slightly included) VS diamonds contain minor inclusions that range from difficult (VS1) to somewhat difficult (VS2) for a trained grader to see at 10x magnification.
- SI1 and SI2 (Slightly Included) SI stones contain inclusions which are easy (SI1) or very easy (SI2) for a trained grader to see under 10x magnification. In some
cases, depending on the nature of the inclusions, it may be possible to find the inclusions in a SI2 (or even in a SI1) with the unaided eye.
- I1, I2, I3 (Imperfect) I-grade diamonds contain inclusions which are obvious at 10x magnification, can be seen face-up with the unaided eye, and can affect the diamonds potential durability.
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