What is the Best Diamond Clarity?

When selecting the perfect diamond for your engagement ring the most common factors of The Four C’s to consider are Colour & Clarity.
These are two of the most thought of factors when it comes to deciding on a diamond.
In this article we will look at understanding diamond clarity, one of the essential factors in the appearance of your diamond.
You might think it’s easy to choose the highest clarity possible, but when you take different certifications, “Good” & “Bad” SI stones and choosing the best clarity based on your diamond shape there’s a lot to consider.
Here’s a simplified guide to help you navigate diamond clarity grading and choose the best option for your unique ring.

Understanding Diamond Clarity Grading

The GIA Clarity Scale Explained

The Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) is the most trusted diamond laboratory in the world and grades diamonds based on clarity, ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). Clarity measures the presence of inclusions and blemishes, which can affect the diamond’s brilliance and overall appearance.

Flawless (FL): No inclusions or blemishes within the diamond at all.
Internally Flawless (IF): No inclusions and only extremely minor blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): Inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification.
Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): Minor inclusions ranging from difficult to somewhat easy to see under 10x magnification.
Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): Noticeable inclusions under 10x magnification, which may be visible to the naked eye.
Included (I1, I2, and I3): Obvious inclusions that may affect transparency and brilliance.

The White Diamond Scale

Photographs to show the difference in diamond clarity

Choosing VS and Above for Clear Diamonds

f you want a diamond without visible inclusions, choose VS (Very Slightly Included) clarity or higher.
VS, VVS (Very Very Slightly Included), IF and FL grades ensure that the inclusions are not visible to the naked eye, guaranteeing a pristine appearance.

What is better VS1 or VS2?

VS1 is a higher clarity grade than VS2. The difference between VS1 & VS2 can mean the difference between inclusions that are visible to the naked eye or not. Because of this VS1 diamonds are slightly more expensive than a comparable VS2.

The more clear a diamond is, the more rare it is & as you may expect the more costly it is. Unless you have an unlimited budget, you might want to try and find a balance when it comes to clarity.

A good clarity to choose to ensure a diamond which to the naked eye is free of inclusions whilst maximising budget is a VS1, or as long as the inclusions aren’t in the centre of the diamond, a VS2.

Prioritising Clarity for Step Cut Diamonds

Step cut diamonds, like emerald and Asscher cuts, have large open facets that make inclusions more visible. For these cuts, it’s essential to prioritise higher clarity grades such as VVS or above to ensure the inclusions can’t be seen, this will maintain the diamond’s clear and elegant look.

Is VVS1 worth it?

When looking for a perfectly clear diamond my clients often move down a grade from flawless once they realise there is a difference in price to move down to VVS, without compromising on the visual beauty of the diamond. VVS1 is higher in clarity than VVS2, and therefore is the most expensive of the VVS grades. As mentioned when looking at a step cut diamond I always prefer to choose a higher clarity such as a VVS, but you will still find that a VVS2 diamond is clear to the naked eye and offers more value for money than a VVS1.
There are obviously the exceptions to this rule when looking for a diamond, and especially when looking for an unusual diamond sometimes the usual rules go out of the window when you find a diamond that speaks to you.

Good & Bad examples of SI clarity diamonds

Good SI vs. Bad SI: Budget Considerations

If budget is a significant factor, you can consider lowering clarity to SI (Slightly Included) for brilliant cut diamonds. Brilliant cuts, such as round, oval and princess, are better at hiding inclusions due to their faceting patterns producing a fiery sparkle. However, it’s important to differentiate between “good SI” and “bad SI.” A “good SI” diamond will have inclusions that are less noticeable and do not affect the diamond’s beauty, whereas a “bad SI” diamond will have more visible inclusions. Because of this, it’s not so important to take the certificate details as gospel, but more to assess the actual stone. One of the advantages of choosing a jeweller to help with your search.

It is important to note that I am really picky when it comes to diamond quality when creating my own ranges, as well as Bespoke Engagement Rings.
In terms of diamond quality, if you have looked at an engagement ring from one of the high street jewellery stores that have shops across the UK their higher quality ranges will usually be I1 or I2 in clarity, so much lower quality than you will find at an independent Jeweller like Poppy Elder Fine Jewellery.

Explore Engagement Rings

Some of my favourite Diamond Engagement Rings

Oval Step Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

£4,895.00 GBP

Art Deco Diamond Trilogy Ring

From £2,995.00 GBP

Fancy Yellow Diamond Oval Cluster Ring

From £2,995.00 GBP

Working with a Jeweller Like Poppy Elder Fine Jewellery

Choosing a diamond involves more than just looking at a certificate. Working with a jeweller like Poppy Elder Fine Jewellery ensures you get the best value for your money. Rather than relying solely on certificates, a knowledgeable jeweller can handpick diamonds that offer the best clarity for your budget, ensuring you get a beautiful stone.

By choosing me to help find the perfect diamond for you, I will ensure the stone you choose is something I would be happy to wear myself. With over 15 years of experience sourcing diamonds for clients and product collections, I know exactly what to look for and have a trusted network who understand my exacting standards when it comes to diamonds.

So now you know what to look for, what clarity is right for you?

Choosing the right diamond clarity for your unusual engagement ring is a key step in creating a stunning piece. Whether you opt for a high clarity grade for step cut diamonds or a well-chosen SI for a brilliant cut to maximise your budget, understanding clarity helps you make the best choice. Explore our collection and contact us for personalised assistance in selecting the perfect diamond for your ring. Let’s create a piece that truly reflects your love and commitment.

Feel free to reach out with any questions – we’re here to help you create the perfect bespoke engagement ring that you and your partner will cherish forever.

Get in touch today to find your perfect diamond.

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