Insider’s Guide to Internally Flawless Diamonds: Everything You Need to Know

What are IF Diamonds?

IF, or Internally Flawless diamonds, constitute less than 0.5% of all diamonds used in jewelry and engagement rings around the world. An internally flawless diamond clarity grade implies that the diamond is devoid of inclusions even under 10x magnification, though it may possess minor surface blemishes. The scarcity of these gems is mirrored in the IF diamond price, rendering them less suitable for budget-conscious buyers. Are IF diamonds worth it? The answer varies. These diamonds appeal to purists or perfectionists who value the rarity of such stones. It’s noteworthy that other clarity grades can appear “eye-clean,” despite having inclusions visible under magnification.

IF diamonds symbolize pure and unconditional love due to their lack of inclusions. However, you may notice remarks on the GIA grading certificate such as “minor details of polish,” or “manufacturing remnants,” or “surface graining.” These are minuscule imperfections located on the diamond’s surface and do not affect its sparkle, visibility, or light performance. These details are hardly noticeable, even under magnification.

Buying IF Diamonds

Prices for IF clarity diamonds surge exponentially as other diamond characteristics like cut, color, and carat increase. Striking a balance is crucial unless you have an unlimited budget and can afford the best in every category. For instance, a 1-carat Internally Flawless diamond with a color grade of D is priced around $17,000, though prices fluctuate. Opting for a G color grade instead could reduce the price to about $9,000 for the same size IF diamond.

As evidenced, 1.00ct diamonds, with all other factors equal, exhibit substantial price differences—up to 20%. Yet, the difference in terms of sparkle and appearance is minimal. Purchasing IF diamonds online is viable since the absence of inclusions means there’s nothing to see or evaluate. Visit Artful Bracelets‘s diamond search to pair clarity with the other 4 C’s of diamonds and determine if IF fits within your budget and desired range. Clarity should be balanced with other factors to match your personal importance and priorities.

How to Choose?

Clarity is just one of the vital 4 C’s in diamond purchasing, alongside cut, color, and carat.

Watch our company founder guide you through determining which combination of the 4 C’s will deliver the best diamond for your budget.

Are IF Diamonds Worth It?

Given the significant investment, it’s natural to ponder if an Internally Flawless diamond is worth it. Despite their undeniable beauty, we recommend most couples opt for a stone that is eye-clean, encompassing various other clarity grades. The rationale? You’ll want your diamond to consistently look appealing to you (and to others when you show it off). Since neither you nor your friends will scrutinize the diamond under magnification, the necessity for an Internally Flawless diamond ring diminishes unless there’s a special personal or cultural significance attached to it.

If this doesn’t pertain to you, consider diamonds with slightly lower clarity grades. A diamond with such a grade will sparkle nearly as beautifully as an IF diamond, which is the primary concern for most people. Inclusions below the VS range are visible only under magnification, meaning no one can distinguish if your diamond is IF or VS2. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and priorities. (And yes, finding an engagement ring on a budget is entirely possible.) If you’re uncertain about which diamond clarity suits your needs and lifestyle best, consult our experts. Our gemologists are available to assist you daily in discovering a diamond you’ll adore.