Diamond Clarity Grades Explained: FL to I3
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Diamond clarity describes the relative absence of internal characteristics called inclusions and external characteristics called blemishes.
The GIA clarity scale contains 11 grades, beginning with Flawless and ending with Included 3. A clarity grade is determined under 10× magnification, but it does not automatically tell you whether an inclusion will be visible without magnification, whether it affects durability or whether paying for a higher grade provides meaningful visual value.
The best clarity choice depends on the individual diamond, its shape, carat weight, inclusion pattern, transparency, intended setting and price.
Diamond Clarity Scale at a Glance
| Category | Grades | Laboratory description | Practical buying meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flawless | FL | No inclusions or blemishes visible to a skilled grader at 10× | Extremely rare; purchased mainly for rarity or premium specification |
| Internally Flawless | IF | No inclusions and only blemishes visible at 10× | Very high clarity; normally no visible difference from lower eye-clean grades |
| Very, Very Slightly Included | VVS1, VVS2 | Inclusions are difficult for a skilled grader to see at 10× | Premium clarity with minute inclusions |
| Very Slightly Included | VS1, VS2 | Minor inclusions range from difficult to somewhat easy to see at 10× | Frequently considered for a balance of clarity and price |
| Slightly Included | SI1, SI2 | Inclusions are noticeable to a skilled grader at 10× | Requires individual inspection for visibility, transparency and durability |
| Included | I1, I2, I3 | Inclusions are obvious at 10× and may affect transparency, brilliance or durability | Requires careful assessment; appearance and condition vary substantially |
These definitions follow the GIA clarity scale. They describe laboratory grading conditions, not a guarantee of naked-eye appearance.
What Does Diamond Clarity Measure?
Diamonds can contain characteristics formed during growth, cutting, polishing or later wear.
Clarity grading evaluates the combined effect of those characteristics.
It is not determined simply by counting inclusions. A single large or prominent inclusion may influence the grade more than several small, low-relief inclusions.
The GIA system considers five main factors:
- Size
- Number
- Position
- Nature
- Colour or relief
The final grade represents the overall clarity appearance at 10× magnification.
Inclusions Versus Blemishes
Inclusions
Inclusions are internal or surface-reaching characteristics.
Examples include:
- Crystals
- Feathers
- Clouds
- Pinpoints
- Needles
- Knots
- Cavities
- Internal graining
Blemishes
Blemishes are external characteristics confined to the surface.
Examples can include:
- Scratches
- Abrasions
- Extra facets
- Polish lines
- Naturals
- Surface graining
The difference matters most at the highest grades. An Internally Flawless diamond can have minor blemishes but no inclusions visible to a skilled grader at 10× magnification.
IGI also distinguishes internal inclusions from external blemishes in its diamond clarity guidance.
How Diamond Clarity Is Graded
A trained grader examines the diamond under controlled conditions and 10× magnification.
The clarity decision considers the following.
Size
A larger clarity characteristic generally has more influence on the grade than a very small one.
Its size is considered relative to the diamond. A characteristic that is significant in a small diamond may be assessed differently in a much larger stone.
Number
Several characteristics can collectively affect the grade. However, the grade is not produced by a simple inclusion count.
One crystal may also reflect through the facets and appear in several positions even though it is a single inclusion.
Position
An inclusion beneath the table or near the centre can attract more attention than one close to the edge.
An inclusion near the girdle may be less noticeable face-up, but its position must still be checked for possible setting or durability concerns.
Nature
Nature means the type of clarity characteristic.
A pinpoint, feather, cavity and crystal have different structures. The name alone does not determine whether the characteristic is acceptable. Its size, position, extent and visibility also matter.
Relief
Relief describes how strongly the inclusion contrasts with the surrounding diamond.
A dark crystal may be more noticeable than a pale or transparent inclusion of similar size. Reflections can also make one inclusion appear more prominent.
FL and IF Diamond Clarity
Flawless
A Flawless diamond has no inclusions or blemishes visible to a skilled grader at 10× magnification.
FL does not mean that the diamond is perfect at unlimited magnification. It means that it satisfies the laboratory’s Flawless criteria under the defined grading conditions.
Flawless diamonds are rare and normally carry a premium.
Internally Flawless
An Internally Flawless diamond has no inclusions visible at 10×, but minor blemishes may be present.
In ordinary viewing, buyers are unlikely to see a visual difference between an FL, IF and properly selected lower eye-clean grade. The reason to buy FL or IF is generally rarity, specification or personal preference rather than a guaranteed improvement in visible beauty.
A future detailed comparison should live on the planned FL-versus-IF page rather than being expanded here.
VVS1 and VVS2 Diamond Clarity
VVS means Very, Very Slightly Included.
The inclusions are difficult for a skilled grader to locate at 10× magnification.
VVS diamonds commonly appeal to buyers who want:
- Premium clarity
- Minute inclusions
- A high report specification
- A larger or step-cut diamond with a conservative clarity requirement
- A rarity-based purchase rather than minimum eye-clean appearance
VVS1 is one grade above VVS2. That difference is real under laboratory grading, but it may not produce a visible difference without magnification.
Neither VVS grade guarantees better sparkle than a lower-clarity diamond. Cut quality and the diamond’s light behaviour remain separate considerations.
VS1 and VS2 Diamond Clarity
VS means Very Slightly Included.
Inclusions in this category are minor and range from difficult to somewhat easy for a skilled grader to see under 10× magnification.
Many properly selected VS diamonds appear clean without magnification. However, buyers should not convert that tendency into guarantees such as:
- “Every VS2 is eye-clean.”
- “VS1 always looks better.”
- “A VS diamond cannot contain a durability concern.”
Two VS2 diamonds can have different:
- Inclusion types
- Inclusion locations
- Relief
- Reflections
- Transparency
- Face-up appearance
- Prices
Dalila’s separate VS1 versus VS2 guide owns the detailed comparison between these two grades.
SI1 and SI2 Diamond Clarity
SI means Slightly Included.
SI inclusions are noticeable to a skilled grader at 10× magnification. Some SI diamonds may appear clean to an unaided observer, while others contain inclusions that are visible face-up or from the side.
The grade alone cannot determine which result applies.
SI1
A carefully selected SI1 can offer useful value when:
- The inclusion is not distracting without magnification
- Transparency remains strong
- The inclusion position is suitable
- No meaningful durability issue is identified
- The price difference from a comparable VS diamond is worthwhile
- The diamond suits its intended setting
SI2
SI2 requires closer individual assessment because the grade-setting characteristics are normally easier to locate.
Check:
- Face-up visibility
- Side visibility
- Dark or reflective inclusions
- Clouds affecting transparency
- Feathers or other surface-reaching characteristics
- Inclusion position near the girdle
- The complete comments section
- Whether the seller’s photographs accurately represent the stone
Do not advertise every SI1 or SI2 diamond as eye-clean. The term must be based on inspection of the individual diamond under stated viewing conditions.
I1, I2 and I3 Diamond Clarity
Included diamonds contain characteristics that are obvious at 10× magnification. Those inclusions may affect transparency, brilliance or durability.
The Included category covers a wide range. An I1 diamond and an I3 diamond should not be treated as equivalent simply because both use the letter I.
Included diamonds require careful inspection for:
- Visible inclusions
- Loss of transparency
- Reduced brightness
- Surface-reaching features
- Structural vulnerability
- Existing chips or cavities
- Suitability for setting
- Whether the price reflects the diamond’s actual condition
An I-grade diamond is not automatically unusable or unsafe. Conversely, a low price should not be treated as proof of value. The specific inclusion pattern and intended jewellery use must be professionally assessed.
What Does Eye-Clean Mean?
“Eye-clean” is a trade description, not an official GIA clarity grade.
It generally means that inclusions are not readily visible without magnification under defined viewing conditions.
The description is incomplete unless the seller explains:
- Viewing distance
- Lighting
- Face-up or side view
- Whether the observer has normal or corrected vision
- Whether the diamond is loose or mounted
- Whether the assessment applies from every direction
A practical internal standard might assess the loose diamond face-up at approximately normal reading distance under neutral lighting, without magnification. The exact standard should be written and applied consistently.
A diamond can be eye-clean face-up but show an inclusion from the side. That distinction should be disclosed when relevant.
Is Every VS Diamond Eye-Clean?
No clarity grade guarantees eye-clean appearance in every diamond and under every viewing condition.
Many VVS and VS diamonds will appear clean without magnification. Some well-selected SI diamonds can also appear eye-clean.
Visibility changes with:
- Diamond size
- Shape
- Facet pattern
- Inclusion type
- Inclusion position
- Inclusion relief
- Viewing angle
- Lighting
- Observer
- Setting
The individual diamond must be examined rather than relying on a general statement about the grade.
How Shape Affects Clarity Visibility
Shape and facet arrangement affect how easily inclusions can be seen.
Brilliant-style shapes
Round, oval, pear, marquise, cushion and radiant diamonds often use complex facet patterns that can make some inclusions less noticeable.
However, reflections may multiply the appearance of a dark or strongly contrasting inclusion.
Step-cut shapes
Emerald and Asscher cuts use broad, open facets. These can make some inclusions easier to observe.
That does not mean every emerald or Asscher diamond requires VVS clarity. It means the buyer should inspect the individual stone more carefully instead of choosing a grade through a fixed rule.
Larger diamonds
Inclusions can become easier to notice as the diamond’s physical size increases. A clarity grade is assessed relative to the diamond, so two diamonds with the same grade can contain characteristics of different apparent sizes.
Larger stones therefore deserve closer inspection even when the report grade appears reassuring.
Does Clarity Affect Diamond Durability?
Sometimes, but not every inclusion creates a durability problem.
Most clarity characteristics in commercially sold diamonds do not mean that the stone will break during ordinary wear. The risk depends on the inclusion’s:
- Nature
- Size
- Depth
- Position
- Surface reach
- Relationship to the girdle
- Relationship to a vulnerable point or corner
- Exposure in the intended setting
GIA explains that certain surface-reaching inclusions, particularly feathers near the girdle, can make a diamond more vulnerable if the stone is struck in that location. Very deep feathers can also require closer assessment.
See GIA’s guidance on diamond clarity and durability.
The presence of the word “feather” does not automatically make a diamond unsafe. A small internal feather and a large surface-reaching feather are different situations.
Durability should be assessed from the actual diamond, grading report, clarity plot, comments and intended setting.
Inclusions That Require Individual Assessment
| Characteristic | General description | What to examine |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal | A mineral or diamond crystal enclosed within the stone | Size, colour, relief, position and reflections |
| Feather | An internal or surface-reaching break | Depth, extent, position and whether it reaches a vulnerable area |
| Cloud | A grouping of very small pinpoints | Whether it affects transparency or creates haziness |
| Pinpoint | A very small crystal visible under magnification | Number and whether several form a cloud |
| Needle | A thin, elongated crystal | Size, relief and position |
| Cavity | An opening at the surface | Size, location, dirt retention and setting exposure |
| Knot | A crystal reaching the polished surface | Position, relief and surface condition |
| Internal graining | Internal growth features or lines | Visibility and effect on transparency |
| Chip | A damaged area, often at an edge or point | Extent, setting risk and whether repair is possible |
No inclusion type is automatically acceptable or unacceptable solely because of its name.
Can a Prong Hide an Inclusion?
A prong may make an edge inclusion less visible, but hiding an inclusion should not replace a durability assessment.
Avoid placing pressure directly on:
- A vulnerable feather
- A cavity
- A chip
- A thin corner
- A structurally sensitive point
The setter should examine the loose diamond before finalising the prong position.
A setting can reduce visibility. It cannot change the clarity grade or repair a structural concern.
How to Read a Clarity Plot
A clarity plot maps the type and location of selected clarity characteristics.
Depending on the report, internal characteristics may be shown in red and external characteristics in green. Symbols can identify crystals, feathers, clouds and other features.
Use the plot to ask:
- Where is the grade-setting inclusion?
- Is it beneath the table or close to the girdle?
- Does it reflect through other facets?
- Is it surface-reaching?
- Is the characteristic near a vulnerable point?
- Does the plot correspond with the physical diamond?
A clarity plot is not a photograph and should not be treated as perfectly to scale.
Not every report format contains a full plot. Important information may also appear in the comments section. A comment such as “clarity grade is based on clouds that are not shown” deserves careful attention to the diamond’s transparency.
Use Dalila’s Diamond Grading Report Guide for the complete report-verification process.
Does Clarity Affect Sparkle?
Clarity and cut are separate quality factors.
A high clarity grade does not guarantee strong sparkle. A Flawless diamond can still have weak proportions or disappointing visual performance.
Cut quality, facet arrangement, proportions, polish, symmetry and lighting strongly influence:
- Brightness
- Fire
- Scintillation
- Contrast
Clarity can affect transparency and brilliance when inclusions are sufficiently significant. This is more likely to require attention in Included grades or when clouds and other characteristics reduce transparency.
Do not describe VVS as automatically more brilliant than VS. Compare the actual diamonds.
How Clarity Affects Price
When the remaining characteristics are sufficiently similar, higher clarity normally commands a higher price because higher grades are rarer.
The price difference is not fixed.
It can change according to:
- Carat weight
- Shape
- Colour
- Cut and proportions
- Exact inclusion pattern
- Natural or laboratory-grown identification
- Grading laboratory
- Fluorescence
- Current availability
- Currency and commercial terms
A VVS diamond may cost more than a visually similar VS diamond even when the difference cannot be seen without magnification.
A carefully selected SI1 may cost less than a comparable VS2 while giving a similar face-up appearance. Another SI1 may have a visible inclusion or transparency issue and should not be considered equivalent.
The grade provides a comparison category. It does not determine value without examining the complete diamond and price.
Which Diamond Clarity Offers the Best Value?
There is no universal best grade.
A sensible starting approach is:
| Buyer priority | Clarity approach |
|---|---|
| Rarity or premium report specification | Consider FL, IF or VVS |
| High clarity without paying for flawless rarity | Consider VVS or VS1 |
| Balance of appearance and price | Compare VS1 and individually inspected VS2 diamonds |
| Greater budget efficiency | Compare carefully selected SI1 and VS2 diamonds |
| Lower-price Included diamond | Inspect transparency, visible inclusions and durability very carefully |
| Large or step-cut centre stone | Give additional attention to inclusion visibility and position |
This table is a starting framework, not a buying guarantee.
The better diamond is the one that:
- Looks suitable without magnification
- Has acceptable transparency
- Has no unacceptable durability concern
- Performs well visually
- Fits the intended setting
- Has reliable grading documentation
- Is fairly priced relative to comparable stones
Clarity Buying Checklist
Before purchasing a diamond, check:
- Is the report issued by a recognised grading laboratory?
- Has the report number been verified on the laboratory’s official website?
- Does the physical diamond match the report and measurements?
- What inclusion sets the grade?
- Where is the inclusion positioned?
- Is it visible face-up without magnification?
- Is it visible from the side?
- Does it reflect through the facets?
- Does it affect transparency?
- Does it reach the surface?
- Is it close to the girdle, corner or point?
- Could the proposed setting expose or pressure it?
- Does the report contain important clarity comments?
- Is the diamond fracture-filled or subject to another disclosed treatment?
- Is the price difference from the next clarity grade visually worthwhile?
- Have cut, colour, carat and overall appearance also been compared?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best diamond clarity grade?
FL is the highest clarity grade, but it is not automatically the best purchase for every buyer. The best choice depends on appearance, durability, rarity preference and budget.
What is the difference between FL and IF?
FL has no inclusions or blemishes visible at 10× magnification. IF has no inclusions visible at 10× but may have minor blemishes.
Is VVS better than VS?
VVS is a higher clarity category, but it may not look visibly different from an eye-clean VS diamond without magnification. Whether it is a better purchase depends on the buyer’s priorities and price.
Is VS2 clarity eye-clean?
Many VS2 diamonds appear eye-clean, but the grade does not guarantee this. Inspect the individual diamond under stated viewing conditions.
Can SI1 be a good clarity grade?
Yes. A carefully selected SI1 can offer good value when its inclusions are not distracting, transparency is strong and there is no unacceptable durability concern.
Is SI2 always visibly included?
No. Visibility varies, but SI2 requires closer inspection because its inclusions are more noticeable under magnification and may be visible without it.
Are I1 diamonds dangerous to wear?
Not automatically. Some I1 diamonds may remain suitable for jewellery, while others have inclusions affecting transparency, appearance or durability. The individual diamond and setting must be assessed.
Does higher clarity mean more sparkle?
No. Cut quality has a major influence on light performance. Clarity affects sparkle mainly when inclusions reduce transparency or interfere with visible performance.
Are feather inclusions bad?
Not automatically. A small feather may be unobtrusive, while a large or surface-reaching feather near a vulnerable area may require concern. Position and extent matter.
Is eye-clean an official clarity grade?
No. Eye-clean is a trade description. The seller should explain the lighting, viewing distance, angle and other conditions used for the assessment.
Compare the Complete Diamond
Clarity is not simply a race toward the highest grade.
The strongest buying decision considers:
- Laboratory grade
- Inclusion type and location
- Naked-eye visibility
- Transparency
- Durability
- Shape
- Carat weight
- Cut and visual performance
- Setting
- Total price
Browse Dalila’s natural-diamond inventory to compare available clarity grades.
For a specific clarity range, inclusion preference, shape, carat weight or budget, submit a request through DS4U custom diamond sourcing. Availability, appearance and price must be confirmed for the individual diamond.