What Is Diamond Clarity?
Clarity measures the presence of internal characteristics (inclusions) and surface blemishes in a diamond. Since diamonds — whether natural or lab-grown — crystallize under intense conditions, virtually all contain some form of identifying characteristics. These aren't flaws; they're the unique fingerprint of each diamond's formation story.
The GIA clarity grading scale evaluates diamonds under 10x magnification, assessing the size, number, position, nature, and relief of inclusions. Understanding this scale helps you make informed decisions about where to invest — and where to save — in your lab-grown diamond purchase.
The Clarity Scale
Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF)
FL: No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. Extraordinarily rare in both mined and lab-grown diamonds. While the designation carries prestige, FL diamonds look identical to VVS diamonds to the naked eye — you're paying for a laboratory distinction, not a visible one.
IF: No inclusions visible under 10x magnification, but minor surface blemishes may be present. These surface marks are typically so minuscule that they don't affect the diamond's appearance or durability in any way.
Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1, VVS2)
Inclusions are so slight that they're difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification. VVS1 inclusions are even more difficult to locate than VVS2. These diamonds appear absolutely clean to the naked eye and even under standard magnification. For those who want near-perfection without the FL/IF premium, VVS grades offer exceptional quality.
Very Slightly Included (VS1, VS2)
Inclusions are minor and range from difficult (VS1) to somewhat easy (VS2) to see under 10x magnification. This is where smart buying begins — VS diamonds are "eye-clean," meaning no inclusions are visible to the naked eye. The vast majority of fine jewelry features VS-clarity diamonds.
VS2 is often the sweet spot for lab-grown diamonds. You get a visually perfect stone at a significantly lower price than VVS or FL grades. The inclusions that distinguish a VS2 from a VVS2 are only visible under professional magnification.
Slightly Included (SI1, SI2)
Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification. SI1 diamonds are typically eye-clean, especially in smaller carat sizes (under 1.5 carats). SI2 diamonds may have inclusions visible to the naked eye, depending on the type, size, and position of the inclusion.
SI grades require more careful selection — the grade alone doesn't tell you enough. An SI1 diamond with a small feather near the girdle may look cleaner than a VS2 with a dark crystal directly under the table. This is where examining each individual diamond (rather than relying solely on the grade) becomes important.
Included (I1, I2, I3)
Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and may be visible to the naked eye, affecting transparency and brilliance. I-clarity diamonds are generally not recommended for center stones in fine jewelry, as the inclusions can interfere with light performance and may compromise structural integrity at the I2-I3 level.
Common Inclusions in Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds develop different inclusion types depending on their growth method:
HPHT-Grown Diamond Inclusions
- Metallic flux inclusions: Tiny particles of the metal catalyst used during growth, appearing as small dark or reflective spots. These can sometimes make the diamond slightly magnetic — an interesting identifying characteristic
- Color zoning: Uneven color distribution from varying growth conditions during the HPHT process
CVD-Grown Diamond Inclusions
- Graphite inclusions: Dark carbon spots from incomplete crystallization during the CVD process
- Strain patterns: Internal stress from the growth process, visible under cross-polarized light
- Growth lines: Subtle banding from the layer-by-layer CVD growth process
Choosing the Right Clarity Grade
For Maximum Value
VS2 to SI1 grades in lab-grown diamonds offer the best price-to-beauty ratio. These diamonds are eye-clean, meaning you won't see any inclusions during normal wear, but they cost significantly less than VVS or FL grades.
For Specific Diamond Shapes
Step-cut diamonds (emerald and asscher cuts) have large, open tables that act like windows into the diamond's interior. Inclusions are more visible in step cuts, so prioritize VS2 or higher. Brilliant cuts (round, oval, cushion) are more forgiving — their facet pattern breaks up light in ways that mask inclusions, allowing you to go as low as SI1 comfortably.
For Larger Stones
As carat weight increases, so does the diamond's surface area, making inclusions easier to spot. For diamonds over 2 carats, consider moving up one clarity grade from what you'd choose for a smaller stone.
The Eye-Clean Standard
The concept of "eye-clean" is the most practical clarity benchmark: can you see any inclusions when looking at the diamond from a normal viewing distance (12-18 inches) without magnification? If not, the diamond is eye-clean, and you'd be paying a premium for higher clarity grades that offer no visible improvement.
Recommended Pieces
- 10K White/Yellow Gold 2 1/4Ct Round Ladies Ring
- Eternal Blush Collection Ladies Ring 1 1/2Ct
- Ladies Eternity Band 5 1/3Ct Emerald 14K White Gold
Most VS2 and many SI1 lab-grown diamonds meet this standard, making them excellent choices for stunning lab-grown diamond jewelry that looks flawless to everyone who sees it.