Clarity

Since diamonds form under extreme heat and pressure, internal and external characteristics are common.
These characteristics help gemologists separate natural diamonds from synthetics and
simulants, and identify individual stones.

There are two types of clarity characteristics: inclusions and blemishes. In order to grade the clarity of a diamond,
it is necessary to observe the number and nature of external and internal characteristics of the stone, as well as their size and position.
The difference is based on their locations: inclusions are enclosed within a diamond, while blemishes are external characteristics.

IF : Internally Flawless Free of inclusions. Only insignificant blemishes visible under 10x magnification.

VVS1 - VVS2 : Very Very Slightly Included Minute inclusions that are very difficult to locate under 10x magnification.

VS1 - VS2 : Very Slightly Included Minute inclusions that are difficult to somewhat easy to see under 10x magnification.

SI1 - SI2 : Slightly Included Noticeable inclusions that are easy to see under 10x magnification.

I1 - I2 - I3 : Visibly Included Inclusions that are obvious under 10x magnification and can be easily seen face-up with the unaided eye.

IGI grading reports show plotted diagrams of clarity characteristics marked in red for internal,
and green for external features; they are useful for identification.