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Understanding inclusions, blemishes, and the clarity grading scale
Visual comparison of clarity grades from Flawless to Included
Clarity measures the presence of internal characteristics called inclusions and external characteristics called blemishes. These natural birthmarks formed during the diamond's creation—whether deep in the earth over billions of years or in a lab over several weeks.
No diamond is perfectly pure. However, the closer it comes to purity, the higher its clarity grade and value. Gemologists examine diamonds under 10x magnification to identify, map, and grade these characteristics.
The good news: Many inclusions are microscopic and completely invisible to the naked eye. A diamond graded VS2 or higher typically appears flawless without magnification—offering excellent value.
Side-by-side comparison showing inclusion visibility
No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. Extremely rare—less than 1% of all diamonds achieve this grade. These are collector-quality stones.
No inclusions, only insignificant surface blemishes under 10x magnification. Exceptionally rare and valuable, virtually identical to FL in appearance.
Inclusions so slight they're difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification. VVS1 inclusions are typically only visible from the pavilion (bottom). Appears flawless to the naked eye.
Minor inclusions ranging from difficult (VS1) to somewhat easy (VS2) to see under 10x magnification. This is our recommended sweet spot—eye-clean diamonds at excellent value.
Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification. SI1 stones are typically eye-clean, while SI2 inclusions may be visible to the naked eye, especially in larger diamonds or step-cut shapes.
Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and usually visible to the naked eye. These may affect transparency and brilliance. 2N DIAMONDS does not carry I-grade diamonds.
An IGI clarity plot showing inclusion locations
Every IGI certificate includes a clarity plot—a diagram showing the location, size, and type of inclusions found in your specific diamond. This plot serves as a unique "fingerprint" for your stone.
Common inclusion types:
• Crystal: Mineral trapped inside the diamond
• Feather: Small fracture within the stone
• Cloud: Cluster of tiny pinpoints
• Needle: Long, thin crystal
• Pinpoint: Tiny crystal, appears as a dot
The clarity plot uses red symbols for inclusions (internal) and green for blemishes (external). Use this map to understand exactly what's in your diamond.
Expert gemologists at IGI examine each diamond under standardized conditions using 10x magnification—the industry standard for clarity grading. They assess:
• Size: How large are the inclusions?
• Number: How many inclusions are present?
• Position: Are they near the center or edge?
• Nature: What type of inclusion?
• Relief: How visible against the diamond?
Inclusions under the table (top) are more impactful than those near the girdle (edge), as they're more visible and can affect light performance.
Gemologist examining diamond clarity under magnification
Consider the diamond shape:
• Round Brilliant: Excellent at hiding inclusions; VS2-SI1 often eye-clean
• Princess, Cushion, Radiant: Many facets mask inclusions; VS2 works well
• Emerald, Asscher (Step Cuts): Large, open facets reveal inclusions; consider VS1+
• Oval, Pear, Marquise: Check that inclusions aren't concentrated at points
Consider carat weight:
Larger diamonds make inclusions more visible. For diamonds over 2 carats, consider moving up one clarity grade from what you'd choose for a 1-carat stone.
The "eye-clean" standard:
An eye-clean diamond has no inclusions visible to the naked eye when viewed face-up at a normal distance (about 6-12 inches). This is typically achieved at VS2 or higher, though some SI1 diamonds qualify depending on inclusion placement.
At 2N DIAMONDS, VS1 is our baseline standard. We believe every diamond should be eye-clean without compromise. Our VS1+ inventory ensures you'll never see inclusions with the naked eye.
For maximum value, VS1 or VS2 offers the best balance—these diamonds appear flawless without magnification while costing significantly less than VVS or FL grades.
If you're seeking the absolute finest, IF or FL grades represent the pinnacle of diamond purity—true collector pieces.
Every diamond in our vault displays its IGI-certified clarity grade. Filter by clarity to find eye-clean stones that match your preferences.
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