What is the diamond clarity scale?

The diamond clarity scale grades how many internal inclusions and surface blemishes a diamond has, from Flawless at the highest end to Included grades where marks are easier to see.

Which diamond clarity grade is best value?

VS2 and SI1 are often strong value grades when the stone is eye-clean, because they can cost less than VVS grades while still looking clean without magnification.

SI1 clarity is not automatically bad. A well-cut SI1 diamond can be eye-clean, but the exact inclusion location, type, and certificate notes matter.

Can you see VVS inclusions without a loupe?

VVS inclusions are normally very difficult to see even under 10x magnification, so they are usually not visible to the naked eye.

Should I pay extra for Flawless clarity?

Flawless clarity is rare and expensive. It usually makes sense for collectors, while many engagement-ring buyers get better value from VS or eye-clean SI grades.

Free ToolFL to I3Printable Reference

Free Diamond Clarity Chart

A diamond clarity chart compares grades from Flawless to Included so you can understand inclusions, visibility, price tradeoffs, and which grades are practical for jewelry buying.

Use this reference before comparing diamond certificates or asking a jeweler whether a stone is truly eye-clean.

Diamond Clarity Scale

Select a grade to see visibility, risk, and buying guidance.

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Eye-clean beats label-only buying

Two diamonds with the same clarity grade can look different. Ask where inclusions sit and whether they are visible from the top.

Cut can hide or reveal inclusions

Round brilliant cuts often hide small inclusions better than step cuts such as emerald or asscher shapes.

Certificate notes matter

Clouds, feathers, cavities, knots, and surface-reaching inclusions can carry different durability and appearance risks.

Printable Diamond Clarity Reference

Grade	Meaning	Typical visibility	Best use
FL	Flawless	No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification.	Rare premium
IF	Internally Flawless	No internal inclusions under 10x, with only minor surface blemishes possible.	Premium
VVS1	Very Very Slightly Included 1	Minute inclusions are extremely difficult for a grader to find under 10x.	High budget
VVS2	Very Very Slightly Included 2	Tiny inclusions are very difficult to locate under 10x magnification.	High budget
VS1	Very Slightly Included 1	Minor inclusions are difficult to see under 10x and normally invisible without magnification.	Balanced
VS2	Very Slightly Included 2	Small inclusions are easier to find under 10x but are often eye-clean.	Best value
SI1	Slightly Included 1	Noticeable inclusions under 10x; many stones still look clean to the naked eye.	Value pick
SI2	Slightly Included 2	Inclusions are obvious under 10x and may be visible without magnification.	Budget
I1	Included 1	Inclusions are usually visible to the naked eye and may affect brilliance.	Low budget
I2	Included 2	Large or numerous inclusions are easy to see and can affect durability or sparkle.	Very low budget
I3	Included 3	Heavy inclusions are obvious and can strongly affect transparency and durability.	Lowest clarity

Diamond Clarity Chart FAQ

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Free Diamond Clarity Chart

Diamond Clarity Scale

Flawless

Internally Flawless

Very Very Slightly Included 1

Very Very Slightly Included 2

Very Slightly Included 1

Very Slightly Included 2

Slightly Included 1

Slightly Included 2

Included 1

Included 2

Included 3