Clarity

Clarity is defined as the internal imperfections or external blemishes on the surface of a diamond. The clarity grade is determined by a trained expert using a 10-power loupe or microscope.

Clarity runs from "Flawless", nothing inside, to "I3", that look like frozen marbles.

Richard Liddicoat, of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) came up with a way to put diamonds into "Grades" based on color, cut, and clarity.

All grades are determined by a trained expert using 10x magnification:

FL = Flawless -- no internal or external inclusions of any kind

IF = Internally Flawless -- no internal inclusions, but could be some tiny external irregularities in the finish

VVS-1 = Very Very Slightly Included 1 -- just one tiny inclusion visible

VVS-2 = Very Very Slightly Included 2 -- tiny inclusions

VS-1 = Very Slightly Included 1 -- very small inclusions

VS-2 = Very Slightly Included 2 -- several very small inclusions

SI-1 = Slightly Included 1 -- small inclusions

SI-2 = Slightly Included 2 -- several small inclusions

I-1 = Included 1 -- flaws that are visible to the naked eye I-2 = Included 2 -- many flaws clearly visible to the naked eye, that also decrease the brilliance

I-3 = Included 3 -- many flaws clearly visible to the naked eye which decrease the brilliance and can compromise the structure of the diamond, making it more easily cracked or chipped

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