Diamond Clarity Explained: What You Really Need to Know

Diamond Clarity Explained: What You Really Need to Know

When looking at a diamond, clarity is often mentioned - but not always fully understood.
Yet it plays an important role in how clean and refined a diamond appears.

What is Diamond Clarity?

Clarity refers to the tiny natural characteristics inside a diamond, known as inclusions, and sometimes small surface marks called blemishes.

These are formed deep within the earth under extreme pressure and are part of what makes every diamond unique.
The key point? Most of these inclusions are completely invisible to the naked eye.

The Full Clarity Scale Explained

Diamonds are graded on a clarity scale ranging from flawless to included. Here’s what that really means:

·       FL (Flawless) → No inclusions or blemishes visible even under 10x magnification. Rare and highly expensive.

·       IF (Internally Flawless) → No internal inclusions, only very minor surface marks. Also rare.

These two categories are exceptional - but in reality, only a tiny percentage of diamonds fall into this range, which is why their prices are significantly higher.

·       VVS1 – VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included) → Inclusions are so small that even experts struggle to see them under magnification.

·       VS1 – VS2 (Very Slightly Included) → Minor inclusions that are difficult to detect.

This is where things get interesting: VVS and VS diamonds look identical to the naked eye compared to flawless stones - but come at a much more accessible price point.

·       SI1 – SI2 (Slightly Included) → Inclusions may be visible under magnification and sometimes slightly visible to the naked eye, depending on the stone.

·       I1 – I2 – I3 (Included) → Inclusions are visible to the naked eye and can affect transparency and brilliance.

In this category, inclusions are no longer subtle - they can impact how light travels through the diamond, reducing sparkle and overall beauty.

What Most People Don’t Realize

Here’s the truth most jewellers won’t clearly explain:

A VS or even VVS diamond already appears perfectly clean to the naked eye.
The difference between VS and Flawless is often only visible under a microscope.

That means you’re often paying a premium for something you simply cannot see in real life.

What We Choose

At Dennis Luxe Jewellery, we carefully select diamonds that appear visually perfect, not just technically perfect - because what matters is how your diamond looks when you wear it.

Final Thought

Clarity is about invisible perfection.
Beyond a certain level, you’re no longer paying for beauty -  you’re paying for rarity.

And true luxury is knowing where that balance lies. Learn how to read a diamond certificate like an expert and select the perfect clarity. Read it here.