Anyone who has ever purchased a lab-grown diamond knows that clarity is one of the main characteristics to look for. The clearer the lab-grown diamond is the higher its value. This makes clarity an essential factor during the purchase journey.
What is diamond clarity?
" Clarity is the level to which a diamond is free from inclusions and blemishes. "
The inclusions are imperfections within the crystal structure, which are very difficult to see. Blemishes are surface damage to a lab-grown diamond’s surface.
A lab-grown diamond's overall quality and value are determined by the 4Cs - Cut, Color, Carat weight, and Clarity.
What does clarity mean?
The clarity can be expressed by the grading scale providing a relative ranking. When we talk about the amount of clarity in a lab-grown diamond, we’re referring to the amount of these clarity characteristics that are present in it.
How is clarity determined?
There are a few different ways to determine the clarity of a lab-grown diamond.
The first way is to use a loupe which is a 10x magnification tool. It is used to inspect the lab-grown diamond’s surface for flaws.
The second way is to send the lab-grown diamond to a gemological laboratory for testing. It will be inspected from the inside out and graded based on clarity. This clarity grade will be used to help determine the lab-grown diamond’s value.
How to read a clarity grade chart?
When it comes to clarity grading, the higher the clarity grade, the less visible the inclusions are. It is accessed across 6 categories, and 11 specific grades, which are:
FL: Flawless
The best clarity has no inclusions or flaws that can be seen under 10x magnification.
IF: Internally Flawless
Lab-grown diamonds with this grade have no inclusions visible and are only minimal through 10x magnification.
VVS: Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1 & VVS2)
It has very small inclusions that are extremely difficult to see under 10x magnification.
VS: Very Slightly Included (VS1 & VS2)
It has minor inclusions that are difficult and somewhat easy to see under 10x magnification.
SI: Slightly Included (SI1 & SI2)
It has noticeable inclusions that can be seen under 10x magnification.
I: Included (I1 & I2)
It has large inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification.
F: Flawed
It has many inclusions that can be seen without 10x magnification.
Are lab-grown diamonds better clarity?
Many people choose lab-grown diamonds for their clarity. They prefer to buy a lab-grown diamond with a clarity grade of VS or better than VS.
Lab-grown diamonds are often graded to VVS or better. So, if you prefer the highest clarity possible, a lab-grown diamond might be right for you.
Buying tips?
Clarity is essential because it is used to determine the value of a lab-grown diamond. If you’re looking for engagement rings, it is essential to understand the differences between each clarity grade and their prices.
