Diamond Clarity

What Does Diamond Clarity Refer To?

Clarity refers to the purity of a diamond and is determined according to the presence, or absence, of tiny impurities or blemishes on the surface or within a diamond. These imperfections are also known as inclusions.

Nearly all diamonds have some inclusions which are evidence of the natural evolution of the original diamond crystal. Inclusions can be likened to the fingerprint of the stone, as the size and position is different in every diamond and are indicators of a natural stone.

Clarity grades range from Flawless (FL), where under 10x magnification a diamond is completely free of inclusions, to Included 3 (I3) where diamonds possess large, heavy inclusions that are visible to the naked eye.

Though flawless diamonds are the rarest, a diamond does not have to be flawless to be stunning. Diamonds with VVS and VS Clarity grades represent excellent choices for both value and appearance. Even diamonds with an SI rating do not have inclusions that are visible to the naked eye and offer a more affordable option.

Diamond clarity

The Clarity grade is verified by an independent certificate that accompanies your diamond.

Diamond Clarity Grade Explanations 

 Clarity GradeGrade NameExplanation
 FLFlawlessNo inclusions and no surface imperfections visible under 10x magnification.
IFInternally FlawlessNo internal inclusions visible under 10x magnification.
VVS1Very, Very Slightly IncludedVery small inclusions which are extremely difficult to see under 10x magnification.
VVS2Very, Very Slightly IncludedVery small inclusions which are very difficult to see under 10x magnification.
VS1Very Slightly IncludedVery small inclusions which are difficult to see under 10x magnification.
VS2Very Slightly IncludedVery small inclusions which are visible under 10x magnification.
SI1Slightly IncludedNoticeable inclusions under 10x magnification, inclusions should not be visible to the naked eye.
SI2Slightly IncludedNoticeable inclusions under 10x magnification, some inclusions may be just visible to the naked eye.
I1IncludedObvious inclusions under 10x magnification, can be seen with the naked eye, often even when set. This is typically the lowest grade jewellers will sell.
I2IncludedObvious inclusions under 10x magnification, can be seen with the naked eye, typically compromises appearance and durability.
I3IncludedInclusions are immediately obvious to the naked eye, significantly compromises appearance and durability.
Diamond clarity

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Holiday Deadlines

Make your wishlist sparkle and order before these dates to receive your jewellery pieces in time for Christmas Day*

Bespoke Engagement Rings & Custom Jewellery: Depends on design – Ask us!
Bespoke Diamond Set Wedding Rings: 25 November
Bespoke Plain Wedding Rings (no diamonds): 7 December
All Ready-To-Wear Collections (to be posted): 20 December
All Ready-To-Wear Collections (in-studio): 24 December

Miss a deadline? We may still be able to help. Reach out to our studio to see if we can work a Christmas miracle for you.

*Time frames may vary between studios depending on the number of pre-Christmas orders received. To avoid disappointment please contact your nearest studio for more details. A deposit must be paid and the design and gemstones confirmed by each deadline date respectively.

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