Grading Diamond Clarity
from
Diamond Experts

A diamond's clarity grading has a direct affect on its price. Any crack, cleavage, inclusion, or other natural feature inside the stone will interfere with the passage of light. As a result, the brilliance or sparkle of the diamond will decrease to some extent. The following grades are used by GIA when grading for clarity. They are also the most widely used by brokers.

Flawless Diamonds - The highest grade of diamond clarity is called flawless. Flawless diamonds have no blemishes whatsoever, both inside and on the surface.

VVS Diamonds - Just missing the flawless grade are the VVS grades. The term "VVS" means Very, Very, Slightly imperfect. VVS Diamonds are graded into two categories: VVS1 and VVS2, with VVS1 being the higher grade.

VS Diamonds - Next down the scale is the VS grade. "VS" means Very Small inclusion. Just as the higher VVS grade, VS graded diamonds are also graded into two categories: VS1 and VS2.

SI Diamonds - SI diamonds are also called commercial quality goods. "SI" means Small Inclusions. This diamond clarity grade is also broken down into two categories: SI1 and SI2. Jewels with diamond clarity of SI are generally much cheaper than those graded Flawless, VVS, or VS.

I Diamonds - At the lowest end of the clarity grading spectrum is the "I" grade, which stands for Imperfect. There are three grades for this level: I1, I2, and I3. An I1 diamond has a higher quality than an I2.