Diamond clarity is one of the most important factors determining a stone's beauty and value. This comprehensive guide will help you understand why diamond clarity is so important and how to choose the perfect stone for your collection or special occasion.
What is diamond clarity?
Diamond clarity reflects the amount and visibility of natural inclusions – tiny cracks – in the stone. These cracks are formed during the millions of years of diamond formation deep underground. The fewer visible cracks, the higher the diamond’s clarity grade and, consequently, the higher its value.
It is important to understand that absolutely perfect diamonds are almost impossible to find in nature. Even the highest quality stones can have microscopic cracks that are only visible with special equipment.
International diamond clarity classification
Flawless (FL) – Flawless
Characteristics:
- No visible cracks even with a 10x magnifying glass
- Extremely rare and most expensive category
- Makes up less than 1 % of all diamonds
Price: Can be 20-30 % more expensive than VVS1 category
Internally Flawless (IF) – Flawless interior
Characteristics:
- No cracks inside the stone, only minor surface defects may be present
- Practically indistinguishable from the FL category
- Great choice for investment
Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2) – Very very few cracks
VVS1 characteristics:
- Cracks are only visible to a specialist using a 10x magnifying glass
- Defects are usually at the bottom of the stone
- A great choice for those looking for a balance between quality and price
VVS2 characteristics:
- Slightly more cracks than VVS1
- Professional expertise is still needed to spot cracks
- A popular choice for wedding rings
Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) – Very few cracks
VS1 characteristics:
- Cracks are difficult to see using a 10x magnifying glass
- Excellent quality/price ratio
- Recommended by many buyers
VS2 characteristics:
- The gaps are visible on average with 10x magnification.
- Often the most economical choice for high quality
Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) – Few cracks
SI1 characteristics:
- Cracks are easily visible using a 10x magnifying glass
- Usually invisible to the naked eye
- A good choice for those on a limited budget
SI2 characteristics:
- Cracks are clearly visible with 10x magnification
- Sometimes they can be seen with the naked eye
- It is recommended to choose responsibly.
Included (I1, I2, I3) – With cracks
I1–I3 characteristics:
- Cracks are clearly visible to the naked eye
- May affect the strength of the stone
- Lowest price category
How to assess diamond clarity in practice
Visual assessment
What to pay attention to:
- Black dots – usually graphite cracks
- White dots – crystal cracks
- Lines – there may be cracks or growth lines
- Clouds – hazy areas in the stone
Tools used
10x magnifying glass:
- Industry standard
- Allows for accurate assessment of cleanliness level
- A must when buying expensive diamonds
LED light:
- Highlights cracks
- Facilitates quality assessment
- Used by professionals
Expert advice
- Focus on the central part – cracks at the edges are less noticeable
- Look carefully at the bottom of the stone – defects are often hidden there
- Evaluate the light scattering – cracks can reduce shine
- Consider the size of the stone – cracks are more visible in larger diamonds
How clarity affects the price of a diamond
Price differences between categories
Top categories (FL–IF):
- Bonus: +25–40 % compared to VVS1
- Highest investment potential
- Suitable for collectibles and prestigious projects
Medium categories (VVS1–VS2):
- Best value for money
- VVS1: +15–20 % compared to VS1
- VS1: +10–15 % compared to VS2
Lower categories (SI1–I3):
- The most economical choice
- SI1: 20–30 % cheaper than VS2
- Responsible assessment required
Investment perspective
Higher clarity diamonds retain their value better and are easier to resell. If you are planning to buy a stone as an investment, it is recommended to choose diamonds of VVS1 or higher.
Certificates and laboratory assessments
Main certification bodies
GIA (Gemological Institute of America):
- The strictest industry standards
- Most recognized certifications
- Detailed descriptions of cleanliness
AGS (American Gem Society):
- Digital evaluation system
- Focus on grinding quality
- High standards of assessment
SSEF, Gübelin:
- European certificates
- Specialization in gemstones
- Prestigious documents
What should the certificate include?
- Precise level of cleanliness
- Crack location diagram
- Description of defects
- Photographs or diagrams
- Laboratory seal
Practical buying tips
Optimal choices for different occasions
For wedding rings:
- Recommended categories: VS1–VVS2
- Excellent visibility and value ratio
- Suitable for long-term wear
For investments:
- Recommended categories: VVS1 and above
- Best value retention
- Easier to market
For an everyday bracelet:
- Recommended categories: SI1–VS2
- Good value for money
- A practical choice
What you need to know when buying
- Always demand a certificate from a recognized laboratory
- Examine the stone in natural light – store lighting can be misleading
- Compare several stones of the same clarity level – each one is unique
- Consult an expert – a professional opinion is invaluable
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are VS2 diamonds a good choice?
Yes, VS2 diamonds are a great choice for many buyers. They offer good value for money, and inclusions are usually invisible without special equipment.
How important is cleanliness compared to the other 4C factors?
Clarity is important, but it should be considered in conjunction with cut, color, and carat. It is often better to choose a slightly lower clarity diamond with a perfect cut than a stone with the highest clarity but a poorer cut.
Can you tell the difference between VVS1 and VVS2?
In practice, no. Without special equipment, you won't notice the difference. Both of these classes are of very high quality and are suitable for even the most demanding buyers.
How does cleanliness affect the brilliance of a stone?
Larger cracks can interfere with the light transmission in a diamond, reducing its brilliance. However, diamonds of SI1 clarity and above usually retain all their beauty.
Is it worth paying extra for FL or IF category?
If you are buying a diamond as an investment or for a collection, yes, it may be worth it. However, for many buyers, VVS1-VVS2 grades provide the same visual pleasure at a much lower price.
How to avoid scams when buying a diamond?
Always demand certification from an independent laboratory, buy only from reputable sellers, and, if possible, consult an independent expert before purchasing a gemstone.
Does the clarity of diamonds change over time?
No, clarity is a natural and unchanging characteristic of a stone. However, a diamond can be damaged if not stored or cared for properly, so it is important to protect it.
Conclusions
The clarity of a diamond is one of the four main factors that determine the value and beauty of a stone. While perfect clarity is rare and expensive, even lower-grade diamonds can be stunning and worth purchasing.
When choosing a diamond, remember:
- Combine cleanliness with other 4C factors
- Choose only trusted sellers with certificates
- Remember that every diamond is unique.
- Invest in quality that fits your needs and budget
Ultimately, the best diamond is the one that brings you joy and meets your expectations and financial capabilities.