Clarity

Natural diamonds form as carbon is exposed to tremendous heat and pressure deep in the earth. This process can result in a variety of internal characteristics called ‘inclusions’ and external characteristics called ‘blemishes.’

Evaluating diamond clarity involves determining the number, size, and location of inclusions, as well as the overall affect on the appearance of the stone. No diamond is perfectly pure, but the closer it is, the better its clarity.

The Diamond Clarity Scale is categorized into 11 specific grades.

Flawless (FL)

No inclusions and no blemishes visible under 10x magnification.

 

Internally Flawless (IF)

No inclusions visible under 10x magnification.

Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)

Inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification.

Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)

Inclusions are observed with effort under 10x magnification, but can be characterized as minor.

Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)

Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification.

Included (I1, I2, and I3)

Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification which may affect transparency and brilliance.

 

Many inclusions and blemishes are too tiny to be seen by anyone other than a trained diamond grader. To the naked eye, a VVS2 and a VS2 diamond may look the same, but a VVS2 diamond is of much higher quality and rarity. 

 

Every True Ideals diamond is independently graded to a clarity rating of VVS2 or higher. A VVS2 diamond has no inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. Any inclusions that remain are so slight that they are difficult to see even under 10x magnification.