Though formed in carefully controlled laboratory environments, lab-grown diamonds can still exhibit unique variations in their development, as laboratories meticulously replicate the natural conditions that produce a resplendent diamond. With lab-grown diamonds now evaluated by the same grading standards as natural diamonds, what do the grades actually represent, and why are they meaningful to diamond enthusiasts and jewellers alike?
A diamond’s clarity refers to the size, location, visibility, and number of its inclusions (internal imperfections) and blemishes (external imperfections). Such inclusions or blemishes can occur even in laboratory conditions, whether via high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD). Factors such as temperature and pressure may also cause variations that can impact overall clarity across different lab-grown diamonds.
While some of these imperfections may be visible, other inclusions and blemishes are invisible to the naked eye but could still alter a diamond’s brilliance and light reflection. As such, a qualified gem-grading professional must conduct a meticulous face-up evaluation at 10X magnification to determine a diamond’s clarity. The fewer imperfections present, the higher the lab-grown diamond’s clarity grade.
Certain characteristics of these inclusions and blemishes may also influence the clarity grade, based on how they affect the overall appearance of the diamond:
While lab-grown diamonds are formed under laboratory-controlled conditions and tend to receive higher clarity grades than natural diamonds, they may still contain inclusions or blemishes that could affect their overall grade. In some cases, such inclusions or blemishes can be used to determine if a diamond is lab-grown or naturally sourced.
Here is a chart showing diamond clarity grades based on the Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) Clarity Scale, with 11 specific grades.
| Flawless (FL) | No visible inclusions or blemishes | |
|---|---|---|
| Internally Flawless (IF) | No visible inclusions, but visible blemishes present | |
| Very Very Slightly Included (VVS) | VVS1 | Inclusions that are so slight that grading may be difficult |
| VVS2 | ||
| Very Slightly Included (VS) | VS1 | Minor inclusions are visible with some effort |
| VS2 | ||
| Slightly Included (SI) | SI1 | Inclusions are noticeable |
| SI2 | ||
| Included (I) | I1 | Obvious inclusions and blemishes that could affect transparency, brilliance, and durability |
| I2 | ||
| I3 | ||
FL and IF diamonds are the highest and second-highest clarity grades, respectively, commanding a premium price point due to their scarcity. Their rarity stems from the fact that diamonds often have some form of inclusion or blemish arising from their formation process, during which foreign material can enter a diamond as it takes shape. While Internally Flawless diamonds do have slight surface blemishes, they are still “eye-flawless” because you cannot see these imperfections with the naked eye, even in bright light.
VVS and VS diamonds command slightly lower prices than their FL and IF counterparts, but possess an enchanting brilliance despite the presence of near-microscopic inclusions and blemishes. They still tend to command a higher price point than SI and I diamonds, and there may still be instances where SI and I diamonds are worthwhile, cost-effective purchases. Some people may even view SI and I diamonds as having a unique beauty arising from their imperfections.
Since inclusions and blemishes may be difficult to spot without magnification, only a skilled jeweller or gem-grading specialist can thoroughly evaluate a diamond and determine its clarity grade. It helps to review a diamond’s included (and verified) certification to ascertain its clarity grade.
In fact, contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a “bad grade”. A lower clarity grade may still appear near-perfect, offering a lovely, scintillating brilliance for an affordable price. It is still essential to seek the advice of a professional jeweller, who can identify a suitable diamond based on your budget and personal preferences.
A diamond should always be evaluated based on the 4Cs, not solely on a single one, to ensure you get a complete picture of the diamond you are interested in. However, when it comes to clarity, it ultimately boils down to several key criteria to help you pick the right grade.
For those willing to splurge on a resplendent diamond, the IF and VVS grades are perfect picks that deliver a beautiful, brilliant diamond you will love. VS diamonds are an equally fitting option, especially when some VS diamonds still appear “eye-flawless” to the untrained eye.
If you are on a budget but would still like to have a charming diamond in your possession, SI and I diamonds remain the most affordable options that still offer an ornate stone that sparkles brilliantly. When combined with other aspects that cover the other C’s, you will surely find an affordable yet charming diamond to call your own.
In need of further advice on diamond clarity or the other C’s? Ling Jewellery is ready to assist you in finding the perfect lab-grown gemstone for your specific needs. Whether you wish to adorn an engagement ring with an exquisite diamond or learn more about lab-grown diamonds myths, our jewellers are more than happy to help. Check out our guide about diamond ring design here.
Yes, as one of the 4Cs, clarity plays an equally important role in how the diamond is regarded. Moreover, under the Laboratory-Grown Diamond Quality Assessment, Premium-grade lab-grown diamonds have a clarity grade of Very, Very Slightly Included and higher. Meanwhile, Standard-grade ones have a clarity grade of Very Slightly Included and lower.
No, colour is evaluated as a separate criterion as part of the 4C’s, and does not factor into the clarity grade. However, strong fluorescence that makes a diamond appear cloudy or oily could affect its clarity grade and overall value.
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