How to Read a Diamond Clarity Scale The diamond clarity scale was originally

How to Read a Diamond Clarity Scale 

The diamond clarity scale was originally developed in the 1950s by the Gemological Institute of America, and it has remained the universal standard ever since. This scale measures the quality and integrity of a diamond and gives the buyer an idea of what it's really worth. Luckily, you don't have to be an expert jeweler to understand its designations once you know the terms.

Flawless/IF

This designation is the first you'll see on the scale. The two terms indicate whether the diamond is flawless or internally flawless. A flawless diamond is one where no blemishes or inclusions are revealed at 10x magnification. Internally flawless refers to a diamond that has no inclusions and very few surface blemishes.

The GIA states that there is no such thing as a perfect diamond, only flawless diamonds that come extremely close. (It should be noted that most jewelers have never seen a flawless diamond.)

VVS1 or VVS2

VVS stands for Very Very Slightly, and it refers to how difficult it is for a grader to see inclusions at 10x magnification. If you looked at an IF diamond and a VVS2 diamond, they would look exactly the same. You'd need a magnifier to find the truth.

VS1 and VS2

VS stands for Very Slightly, meaning the diamond has inclusions but that they're still difficult to see under 10x.

SI1 and SI2

SI stands for Slight Inclusions that are easier to see under magnification. An SI2 diamond may have inclusions that are large enough to see with the naked eye.

I1, I2, and I3

I stands for Inclusions, and this grade signals that the flaws are obvious under magnification. At the upper limits of this category, owners may find the integrity of their diamond is affected by the inclusions. For example, an I3 diamond may be more prone to damage over time (especially if it undergoes repair or remounting services).

Padis Jewelry uses the clarity scale to determine which diamonds are worth selling to our highly discerning customers. It's our privilege to deliver only the best to those who trust us with their business.