The 4 Cs of Diamonds - Clarity
Some inclusions — tiny crystals and other features within gems — will have no impact on a diamond’s clarity grade and value. Others can negatively affect not only a diamond’s beauty but also its structural integrity. Sometimes, diamonds with low clarity grades can still be “eye clean” and might make great buys. Confused? Learn how to judge a diamond’s clarity for yourself.
Are Flawless Diamonds Perfect?
To most people, the word “flawless” means
perfect. When it comes to diamonds, however, it’s a bit more nuanced.
Internally...
Read More
Should I Buy a VVS2 Clarity Diamond?
One of the four Cs by which a diamond's quality is measured is clarity. The best of the best are...
Read More
Should I Buy a VVS1 Clarity Diamond?
When shopping for a diamond, you’ll be looking at diamonds of different clarity grades, from FL (flawless) to I (included)....
Read More
Can an I1 Clarity Diamond be Eye-Clean?
Can you save money with an I1 clarity diamond and still have a nice-looking engagement ring? Learn how to look...
Read More
Is a VS1 Clarity Diamond a Good Buy?
Does a VS1 clarity diamond offer a good balance between quality and price? Learn how to compare clarity grades so...
Read More
Is an SI2 Clarity Diamond Eye-Clean?
Although an SI2 clarity diamond has a low clarity grade, you can still find one that will look good in...
Read More
Is an SI1 Clarity Diamond a Good Choice?
An SI1 clarity diamond might be a bargain, but can you find one that looks great? Learn how to assess...
Read More
Is a VS Clarity Diamond a Good Choice?
When is a VS clarity diamond the best option for your engagement ring? Learn about diamond clarity grades and how...
Read More
Should I Buy a VS2 Clarity Diamond?
How will a VS2 clarity diamond look in an engagement ring? Learn if it’s the right stone for you and...
Read More
Is an I Clarity Diamond a Good Buy?
An I clarity diamond has a low clarity grade, but can it look OK in an engagement ring? Learn the...
Read More
Is an SI Clarity Diamond a Good Deal?
Clarity grades are the most confusing part of diamond engagement ring buying. See what an SI clarity diamond looks like...
Read More
Is a D Color Flawless Diamond Worth the Price?
A D color flawless diamond has the highest color and clarity grade — and the biggest price tag. Are these...
Read More
Should I Buy a VVS Diamond? 6 Pros & Cons
Before spending money on a VVS diamond, read about the pros and cons of diamonds with this clarity grade. What...
Read More
Diamond Buying and the 4 Cs, Part 4: Assessing Diamond Clarity
Diamond buyers often find assessing clarity challenging. Although inclusions may be difficult to see and identity, they can have a...
Read More
Never Stop Learning
When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.
Get Gemology Insights
Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!