When shopping for a diamond, you’ll hear a lot about the “Four Cs”—cut, color, carat, and clarity. Of those, clarity often feels the trickiest: Do you really need a flawless diamond? Or will something slightly lower look just as stunning? The truth is, the best clarity depends on how you balance beauty, budget, and personal preference.
Let’s walk through what clarity really means and how to choose the clarity grade that’s right for you.
What Is Diamond Clarity
Clarity refers to the number, size, and visibility of internal or external imperfections in a diamond:
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Inclusions = internal characteristics, like tiny crystals or feathers.
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Blemishes = external marks, such as scratches or nicks on the surface.
Gemologists at GIA (Gemological Institute of America) grade clarity on a standardized scale, from Flawless (FL) all the way down to Included (I1–I3).
The Diamond Clarity Grades
How Clarity Impacts Cost
FL and IF diamonds carry the highest premiums because of rarity.
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VVS diamonds are still costly, but offer little visible difference once mounted.
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VS diamonds balance beauty and budget, often looking identical to higher grades without the price jump.
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SI diamonds can be excellent value if the inclusions aren’t visible face-up.
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I diamonds are generally not recommended for fine jewelry, as inclusions may reduce brilliance and durability.
On average, moving from VS2 to VVS1 in clarity can increase the price by thousands of dollars without changing how the diamond looks to the naked eye.
Key Factors That Impact Diamond Clarity Value
Brilliance and Sparkle
Clarity plays a role in how much light a diamond reflects. Inclusions can sometimes block or scatter light, especially if they’re large or poorly placed.
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Round and brilliant cuts mask inclusions well, keeping sparkle alive even at lower clarity grades.
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Step cuts (emerald, Asscher) show inclusions more clearly, making higher clarity grades more desirable.
Tip: Always prioritize cut quality first, but check clarity carefully if brilliance is your top priority.
Durability and Strength
Some inclusions don’t just affect beauty—they can influence structural integrity.
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Feather inclusions near the edge or girdle may increase the risk of chipping.
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Surface-reaching inclusions can make a diamond less durable under impact.
This is why diamonds with clarity in the I range may not be recommended for everyday wear in engagement rings.
Size and Carat Weight
The larger the diamond, the more visible inclusions become.
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In a 0.50 ct diamond, a VS2 or even SI1 may look eye-clean.
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In a 3.00 ct diamond, the same clarity grade could reveal noticeable inclusions to the naked eye.
Rule of thumb: The higher the carat, the more you’ll want to lean toward VS or better clarity to keep the appearance clean.
Shape and Cut Style
Diamond shape is a big factor in how clarity is perceived.
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Brilliant cuts (round, oval, cushion, radiant): Their facet patterns camouflage inclusions well. Lower clarity grades can still look eye-clean.
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Step cuts (emerald, Asscher, baguette): With fewer, larger facets, inclusions stand out more. These cuts benefit from higher clarity.
Shape and clarity work hand in hand—choose accordingly.
Color Interaction
Clarity isn’t the only “C” that affects appearance. Inclusions can interact with color.
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High-color grades (D–F): Inclusions may stand out more against icy whiteness.
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Lower-color grades (J–M): Inclusions may blend more easily but can also add to a “cloudy” look if poorly placed.
Balance is key: Many buyers pair slightly lower clarity with slightly lower color for strong value—without visible trade-offs.
Setting and Metal Choice
The ring design can make clarity more or less important.
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Halo or pavé settings: Smaller diamonds around the center distract the eye, making inclusions less noticeable.
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Solitaire settings: The center stone is the star—clarity becomes more critical.
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Yellow or rose gold settings: Can subtly mask inclusions, especially in slightly lower clarity stones.
At Little Treasury, our jewelers help you choose a setting that enhances your stone while minimizing visible inclusions.
Rarity and Investment Appeal
High-clarity diamonds (FL, IF, VVS) are rare and command higher prices. For collectors or those who want an heirloom-quality gem, rarity can make clarity worth the premium.
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Flawless and Internally Flawless: Exceptional rarity, more collectible.
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VVS diamonds: Still rare but more attainable.
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VS–SI diamonds: Common in engagement rings; strong value but less collectible appeal.
If your goal is long-term rarity and legacy, investing in higher clarity grades may be the right choice.
So, What Diamond Clarity Is Best for You?
If You Want Perfection:
Go for FL, IF, or VVS. You’ll own a rare diamond that few others have, though you’ll pay a premium.
If You Want the Best Value:
Look at VS1–VS2. These are almost always eye-clean and give you more flexibility to invest in cut or carat weight (which affect beauty more dramatically).
If You’re Budget-Conscious:
Consider SI1 or even SI2—especially in shapes like cushion or brilliant cuts, where inclusions are less noticeable. Avoid SI in emerald or Asscher cuts, which highlight clarity more.
Conclusion
So, what diamond clarity is best? The answer depends on your goals. If you want rarity and prestige, flawless clarity is unmatched. But for most buyers, VS1–VS2 or SI1 offer the ideal balance: eye-clean sparkle, beauty to the naked eye, and smart value.
At Little Treasury Jewelers, our experts will guide you to the clarity grade that feels right for your priorities—whether that’s perfection, value, or maximum sparkle for your budget.
Visit Little Treasury Jewelers
Little Treasury Jewelers
2506 New Market Ln
Gambrills, MD 21054
Phone: (410) 721-7100
Store Hours:
Monday – Friday: 10am – 6pm
Saturday: 10am – 5pm
Discover eye-clean brilliance and timeless beauty. Visit our Gambrills showroom or schedule a diamond consultation today.