
Diamond Clarity
Which Clarity Grade to Choose?
When selecting a diamond, it is crucial to choose one that is free from inclusions that could impact its overall beauty and durability. For absolute assurance that your diamond will be completely free of "eye-visible" inclusions, opt for diamonds graded "VS2" or higher. Shopping for SI quality diamonds can be very rewarding, but it's best to have those diamonds reviewed by Videh’s expert staff before finalizing your order. This will ensure you receive a diamond without any inclusions visible to the naked eye.
It's also advisable to balance the clarity grade of your diamond with its color. If you are considering diamonds in the D-F color range, focus on clarity grades of VS2 or higher. Diamonds in the G-I color range combined with SI clarity offer excellent value.
GIA Diamond Clarity Grades
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has established a clarity grading scale that is widely recognized and respected in the diamond industry. Here are the GIA clarity grades:
FL (Flawless): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. Extremely rare and
valuable.
IF (Internally Flawless): No inclusions and only minor surface blemishes visible under 10x
magnification
VVS1 and VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): Minute inclusions that are difficult for a skilled
grader to see under 10x magnification.
VS1 and VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Minor inclusions that are visible under 10x
magnification but are considered minor.
SI1 and SI2 (Slightly Included): Noticeable inclusions under 10x magnification. SI1 inclusions
are typically not visible to the naked eye, while SI2 inclusions may be.
I1, I2, and I3 (Included): Inclusions that are obvious under 10x magnification and may affect
transparency and brilliance. Inclusions are often visible to the naked eye.
Clarity Grade Recommendations:
D-F Color Range: opt for clarity grades of VS2 or higher to ensure your diamond appears
flawless to the naked eye.
G-I Color Range: SI clarity diamonds offer excellent value, as their inclusions are typically not
visible to the naked eye, especially when set in jewelry.
By understanding these clarity grades and balancing them with your desired color range, you can make an informed decision to select a beautiful and durable diamond from Videh.