Understanding Diamond Certification and Clarity Scales
While clarity scales differ among laboratories, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the industry benchmark. On the GIA clarity scale, Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds rank highest, followed by Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2), Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2), Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2), and Included (S1, S2, S3) diamonds.
The GIA evaluates clarity by considering the size, nature, position, color, and quantity of clarity characteristics under 10× magnification. Flawless diamonds exhibit no inclusions or blemishes visible under this magnification. Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds have visible blemishes but lack inclusions. The primary difference between a Flawless diamond engagement ring and an Internally Flawless one lies in the presence of surface blemishes. Conditions such as surface graining, naturals, extra facets, or polish marks will downgrade a diamond from Flawless to Internally Flawless. Thus, both types share the same internal clarity, with surface polish being the distinguishing characteristic.
It’s almost impossible to distinguish between flawless and internally flawless diamonds with the naked eye. Even gemologists with microscopes may struggle. Despite the minor visual differences, the price difference between internally flawless diamonds and flawless diamonds can be significant.
Diamond Clarity Grading Reports
Internally flawless diamond grading reports might include comments like “minor details of polish are not shown,” “surface graining is not shown,” and “minor details of finish are not shown.” These remarks are normal, referring to inherent blemishes characteristic of internally flawless diamonds. Although these blemishes could be polished away, diamond cutters often choose to preserve the diamond’s carat weight and monetary value by not doing so. Any internal inclusions that extend into the diamond’s body would exclude it from the Flawless and Internally Flawless categories and cannot be eliminated through polishing.
Even though “Flawless” diamonds receive the highest grading title, they are not genuinely flawless. No diamond is entirely without inclusions. Flawless diamonds are defined by having no inclusions under 10x magnification, but under higher magnification (like 60x or 100x), blemishes may become visible.
Advantages of Choosing a Flawless Diamond
Aside from the psychological satisfaction and higher cost, a flawless diamond engagement ring doesn’t offer more tangible value than an internally flawless one. For maximum visual impact, investing in a higher cut grade is preferable to prioritizing clarity. Ultimately, your decision between a Flawless and Internally Flawless diamond depends on how much value you ascribe to the “Flawless” designation from the judging laboratory.
Finding the Best Diamond for Your Budget
Clarity is one of the essential 4 C’s of diamond selection, alongside cut, color, and carat.
Watch as our company founder guides you in assessing which combination of the 4 C’s will get you the best diamond within your budget.
Selecting Your Perfect Diamond
Avoid becoming overly focused on any single aspect of a diamond’s 4C’s. Strive to find a well-balanced diamond that offers an optimal blend of cut, clarity, carat, and color. If you need help choosing the ideal diamond, review our step-by-step guide to finding the perfect diamond. This guide will assist you in narrowing down the cut, color, clarity, and carat to find the perfect gem that matches both your desires and budget.
