Understanding Diamond Clarity Grades: FL to I3 Explained

the highest clarity grade. Beauty, budget and eye-visible appearance should all be considered together. Clarity grade Full description Typical meaning FL Flawless No inclusions and no blemishes visible to a skilled grader under 10× magnification. IF Internally Flawless No inclusions visible under 10× magnification; only minor surface blemishes may be present. VVS1– VVS2 Very, Very Slightly Included Inclusions are extremely difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10× magnification. VS1–VS2 Very Slightly Included Minor inclusions are visible with magnification, but often not obvious without it. SI1–SI2 Slightly Included Inclusions are noticeable under magnification and may or may not be eye-visible depending on the diamond. I1–I3 Included Inclusions are obvious under magnification and may affect transparency, appearance or durability in some stones. HOW CLARITY IS ASSESSED The five factors that influence a clarity grade Clarity grading is not based on inclusion count alone. Skilled graders consider how each characteristic affects the diamond as a whole. The key factors are size, number, position,

nature and colour or relief. Size Larger inclusions generally have a greater impact on the final clarity grade. Number Multiple clarity characteristics may influence the grade more than a single minor mark. Position A central inclusion beneath the table may be more visible than one near the edge. Nature The type of inclusion or blemish matters, including whether it is internal or surface-related. Relief Dark, bright or high-contrast inclusions may stand out more than pale, low-relief features. INCLUSIONS AND BLEMISHES What is the difference between inclusions and blemishes? Inclusions are internal characteristics within the diamond. Blemishes are surface features. Both are considered in clarity grading, but their impact depends on visibility, size, location and how they affect the overall appearance of the stone.

Characteristic type What it means Examples buyers may hear Inclusions Internal characteristics located within the diamond. Crystal, feather, cloud, needle, pinpoints or internal graining. Blemishes Surface characteristics present on the exterior of the diamond. Polish lines, scratches, nicks or natural features on the surface. EYE-CLEAN DIAMONDS What does “eye-clean” clarity mean? “Eye-clean” is a practical retail term used to describe a diamond where inclusions are not readily visible to the unaided eye in normal viewing. It is not a formal laboratory clarity grade, and the result can vary depending on diamond size, shape, inclusion placement and the viewer’s eyesight. Many VS diamonds and selected SI diamonds can appear eye-clean, but each stone should be checked individually. A report grade gives valuable context; visual review confirms how the diamond actually presents. Centre matters Inclusions under the table may be easier to notice than marks near the girdle or edge. Shape matters Emerald and Asscher cuts can reveal inclusions more easily due to their open step facets.

Size matters Larger diamonds may make inclusions more noticeable than smaller diamonds of the same grade. CHOOSING A GRADE Which diamond clarity grade should you choose? The right clarity grade depends on your diamond shape, size, design and budget. For many buyers, the best value is not the highest grade, but a diamond that appears clean, bright and well balanced in the finished jewellery. FL–VVS for purity Suitable for buyers who value exceptional rarity and very high clarity specifications. VS for balance Often a strong combination of high appearance quality and more practical value. SI by individual review Can offer value where the diamond is visually clean and inclusions are not distracting. NATURAL AND LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS Does clarity apply to both natural and lab-grown diamonds?

Yes. Clarity remains important when comparing both natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds because buyers still care about inclusions, transparency and visual appearance. However, the report terminology can differ depending on the laboratory and current assessment service. GIA’s current laboratory-grown diamond Quality Assessment classifies qualifying stones as Premium or Standard based on an overall combination of clarity, colour and cut-related factors, rather than using the natural-diamond FL–I3 nomenclature on that service. GEMTROVE GUIDANCE How GemTrove helps assess diamond clarity carefully GemTrove combines third-generation jewellery experience, professional gemological training and practical custom jewellery knowledge to help clients interpret clarity in a useful, real-world way. When reviewing a diamond, GemTrove may consider the clarity grade, inclusion location, visibility, transparency, cut quality, diamond shape, carat size, certificate details and how the stone will perform in the final jewellery design.

Report plus visual review Clarity grades are read alongside real appearance, not treated as the only decision point. Shape-aware advice Different shapes reveal inclusions differently, especially step cuts and larger fancy shapes. Design-led recommendation The diamond is assessed with the intended ring, setting and overall design in mind. HELPFUL RELATED GEMTROVE GUIDES Continue your diamond education These pages help connect clarity with the wider diamond quality picture, including cut, colour, size and visual selection. Diamond 4Cs Understand how clarity works alongside cut, colour and carat weight. Diamond Colour Grading Compare clarity with the D–Z diamond colour scale and setting choices. Diamond Carat Weight See how diamond size and weight can affect clarity visibility.

Diamond Cut Grade Learn why light performance remains essential, even with higher clarity. Anatomy of a Diamond Understand table, girdle and pavilion areas where characteristics may appear. How to Choose a Diamond Use a practical framework for balancing clarity, beauty and value. Engagement Rings Browse ring styles that can be custom-made around your selected diamond. Design Your Own Ring Start shaping a ring around your preferred stone and setting style. Contact GemTrove Ask for personalised diamond, gemstone or custom jewellery guidance. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Diamond clarity FAQs What does diamond clarity mean?

Diamond clarity refers to the relative absence of inclusions inside the diamond and blemishes on its surface. The fewer, smaller and less noticeable these features are, the higher the clarity grade is likely to be. What is the best diamond clarity grade? FL, or Flawless, is the highest clarity grade. However, the best buying choice is often a diamond that looks clean to the eye, performs well visually and suits the buyer’s budget and design preferences. What are the main clarity grades? The main clarity groups are FL, IF, VVS1–VVS2, VS1–VS2, SI1–SI2 and I1–I3. These grades range from Flawless through to Included. What is an eye-clean diamond? An eye-clean diamond is one where inclusions are not readily visible to the unaided eye in normal viewing. Eye-clean is a practical appearance term, not a formal laboratory clarity grade. Are SI1 or SI2 diamonds always visibly included? No. Some SI diamonds may appear eye-clean, while others may show visible inclusions. The result depends on the individual stone, inclusion position, contrast, diamond size and shape. Do emerald cut diamonds need higher clarity? Emerald and Asscher cut diamonds often reveal inclusions more easily because of their open step-facet structure. Many buyers consider higher clarity grades or carefully selected eye-clean stones for these shapes. Can inclusions affect diamond durability?

Most inclusions are primarily a clarity and appearance matter. However, certain significant features in some included diamonds may warrant closer assessment, particularly if they are large, surface-reaching or positioned in vulnerable areas. Should I prioritise clarity over cut? Cut quality is generally more important to visible sparkle and liveliness. A very high clarity grade will not make a poorly cut diamond look brilliant, so clarity should be balanced with cut quality and overall appearance. Does clarity apply to lab-grown diamonds? Yes. Clarity remains important in lab-grown diamond assessment. Report terminology depends on the laboratory and service used; GIA’s current laboratory-grown Quality Assessment uses Premium or Standard descriptive classifications for qualifying stones rather than natural-diamond FL–I3 terminology. Can GemTrove help me compare diamond clarity in person? Yes. GemTrove can explain clarity grades, eye-clean appearance, report details, shape suitability and how clarity works with natural or lab-grown diamond options through personalised appointment-based guidance. Choose diamond clarity with practical confidence GemTrove helps clients compare clarity grades, eye-clean appearance, natural and lab-grown diamond options, certificates and custom jewellery suitability with professional guidance. Phone: 0488 878 000 Email: diamonds@gemtrove.com.au Showroom: Suite 903/125 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000