When you’re buying a diamond, clarity is one of the key factors to consider. It refers to the presence of internal or external imperfections, known as inclusions and blemishes. These tiny imperfections can affect how light travels through the diamond, influencing its sparkle and overall brilliance. Here’s a simple guide to help you get a clearer understanding of diamond clarity:
Flawless (FL)
A flawless diamond is exactly that—flawless. It has no inclusions or blemishes visible under magnification. These diamonds are incredibly rare and highly coveted for their perfect clarity. If you’re after the ultimate in diamond perfection, this is the grade to aim for, but it does come with a hefty price tag.
Internally Flawless (IF)
Internally flawless diamonds have no inclusions visible under magnification, though they might have a few minor blemishes on the surface. While they’re not quite perfect, they’re still exceptional and highly sought after. They offer near-perfect clarity, making them a fantastic option if you want something near-flawless but at a slightly lower cost.
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVSI)
Diamonds with this clarity grade have tiny inclusions that are hard to spot, even under magnification. They’re still considered high-quality and are an excellent choice if you’re looking for something special without the rare price tag of flawless diamonds. You’ll get plenty of sparkle and beauty, but at a better value.
Very Slightly Included (VSI)
Diamonds in the VSI category have minor inclusions that may be visible under magnification, but not to the naked eye. These diamonds are great value for money and offer a beautiful sparkle without the steep price of higher clarity grades.
Slightly Included (SI)
Slightly included diamonds have inclusions visible under magnification, and in some cases, they might even be visible to the naked eye. While they’re not as flawless, these diamonds are more affordable and still offer plenty of brilliance. The inclusions are generally minor and won’t affect the diamond’s overall beauty too much.
Included (I)
Diamonds in the Included category have inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. These inclusions can affect the overall appearance and, in some cases, even the durability of the diamond. However, these diamonds tend to be more budget-friendly, so if you’re working with a tighter budget, they might still be a good option. Just be sure to examine the diamond closely to make sure the inclusions don’t impact the look too much.
In the end, it’s all about finding a diamond that looks beautiful to you and fits your budget. Whether you go for flawless or slightly included, every diamond has its own unique charm. Just choose the one that catches your eye and makes you happy!