What Is Considered A Good Clarity For A Diamond?

A diamond with a good clarity grade does not have to be expensive. VS1, VS2, and SI1 are good clarity grades for a diamond. You can feel confident buying diamonds with VS1, VS2, and SI1 clarity grades. These diamonds are known as eye-clean. This means that you cannot see their flaws with your naked eye. VS1, VS2, and S1I diamonds look just as flawless as diamonds with higher clarity grades. These good diamond clarity grades are beautiful and affordable.

Most diamonds have tiny flaws only visible under magnification. The number of flaws is reflected in the diamond’s clarity grade. Clarity plays a major role in the beauty and price of diamonds. As you shop for diamonds, you may be wondering what is considered a good clarity grade. Our experts will show you good clarity grades for diamonds of types.

What is a good clarity grade for large diamonds?

If you want a large diamond (1 carat or more), you need a good clarity grade. Flaws are more visible on large diamonds because their facets are bigger. Buy a large diamond with a VS1 or higher clarity grade.

To afford a large diamond with a VS1 clarity grade, settle on a lower color grade. You will not be able to notice a difference of one color grade. Remember, cut grade is the most important aspect of a diamond. Never settle for a less than perfect cut grade.

What is a good clarity grade for brilliant diamonds?

Brilliant diamonds are the most popular type of diamonds. If you are shopping for brilliants or modified brilliants, get SI1 diamonds. These diamonds’ many facets can better obscure imperfections.

What is a good clarity grade for step cut diamonds?

On step cut diamonds like emeralds, inclusions are more visible. Step cut diamonds have parallel facets and a large table. Due to their facet pattern and sizable table, buy VS1 step cut diamonds.

What is diamond clarity?

Just like humans, most diamonds have birthmarks. These birthmarks are imperfections called inclusions. Inclusions can detract from the diamond’s beauty and threaten its structure. There are many types of inclusions such as clouds, feathers, and pinpoints.

The number of inclusions that a diamond has affects its clarity grade. Fewer inclusions mean a high clarity grade and expensive diamond. Thankfully, most inclusions are not visible without 10x magnification.

There are 11 clarity grades which can be grouped into six categories:

Flawless (FL): Absolutely no flaws.
Internally Flawless (IF): No internal flaws. Has external flaws that are very difficult to see under magnification.
Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1, VVS2): Inclusions are difficult to see under magnification.

Very Slightly Included (VS1, VS2): Inclusions are less difficult to see under magnification.
Slightly Included (SI1, SI2): Inclusions are noticeable under magnification.
Included (I1, I2, I3): Inclusions can be seen with the naked eye.

Learn more:

Where can I find clarity grades?

Many jewelers sell diamonds with certification from diamond labs. This report is packed with useful information about your diamond. The report details the diamond’s clarity grade and plot chart. This is a chart that shows what flaws the diamond has and where they are.

Usually, inexpensive diamonds are sold without certification. If you are buying an expensive diamond, make sure it comes with a report from a reputable lab. This way, you will know your diamond’s exact grade and flaws while paying a fair price.

Final thoughts

With our diamond tips, buying a diamond with good clarity is easy. Keep these key points in mind as you shop:

VS1, VS2, and SI1 are good clarity grades for most diamonds.

Large diamonds (1 carat or more) should have a VS1 or higher clarity grade.
Round brilliant and modified brilliant diamonds can have a VS1 or higher clarity grade.
Step cut diamonds should have a VS1 or higher clarity grade.

Always refer to the diamond’s certification for its official clarity grade.

Now you are on your way to buying a wonderful diamond that does not drain your savings.