Lab Diamond Clarity Chart: Understanding the Key to Sparkle and Brilliance

Lab-grown diamonds, often called lab diamonds or synthetic diamonds, are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds. The clarity of a lab diamond is one of the critical factors that determine its quality and value. Whether you’re purchasing an engagement ring or any other piece of fine jewelry, understanding the lab diamond clarity chart is essential to making an informed decision.

In this article, we will explore what the lab diamond clarity chart is, how clarity affects the appearance of a diamond, and how you can use this information to select the perfect lab diamond.

What is Diamond Clarity?

Diamond clarity refers to the presence of internal or external imperfections, known as inclusions and blemishes. These imperfections occur naturally in diamonds as they form under pressure deep within the Earth’s crust. Lab-grown diamonds, however, can have similar imperfections formed during the diamond’s creation in a controlled laboratory environment.

The clarity of a diamond is graded based on how visible these imperfections are under magnification, typically at 10x magnification. The fewer and less noticeable the inclusions, the higher the clarity grade.

Lab Diamond Clarity Chart

The clarity of diamonds, both natural and lab-grown, is graded using a standard scale. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is one of the leading authorities on diamond grading and uses a specific clarity scale. The following is the common lab diamond clarity chart:

1. Flawless (FL)

Diamonds with a Flawless (FL) grade have no visible inclusions or blemishes even under 10x magnification. These diamonds are incredibly rare and typically come at a premium price. A flawless diamond represents the pinnacle of clarity and is often found in high-end jewelry.

2. Internally Flawless (IF)

An Internally Flawless (IF) diamond has no inclusions visible under 10x magnification, but it may have some surface blemishes. These blemishes are typically microscopic and can be polished out, making the diamond appear flawless to the naked eye. An IF diamond offers incredible beauty and brilliance at a more affordable price compared to a flawless diamond.

3. Very, Very Slightly Included (VVSI)

A Very, Very Slightly Included (VVSI) diamond has minute inclusions that are difficult to detect even under 10x magnification. These inclusions are typically located in the diamond’s inner structure and do not affect the overall brilliance of the diamond. VVSI diamonds are considered a great value because they appear flawless to the naked eye while still being more affordable.

4. Very Slightly Included (VSI)

A Very Slightly Included (VSI) diamond has inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification but are still minor and not easily seen by the naked eye. These inclusions may affect the overall appearance slightly, but they do not drastically alter the sparkle or brilliance of the diamond. VSI diamonds are a popular choice for those looking for a high-quality diamond at a lower price.

5. Slightly Included (SI1 & SI2)

Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) diamonds contain inclusions that are noticeable under 10x magnification and may be visible to the naked eye. However, these lab grown diamonds can still offer good sparkle and brilliance, and the inclusions typically do not significantly affect the overall visual appearance. SI diamonds offer a more affordable option for those on a budget.

• SI1: Inclusions in an SI1 diamond are often only visible to a trained eye or under magnification.
• SI2: Inclusions in an SI2 diamond are more noticeable to the naked eye, especially if they are located in the diamond’s center or near the surface.

6. Included (I1, I2, I3)

Diamonds with an Included (I1, I2, I3) grade have inclusions that are easily visible to the naked eye. These inclusions can affect the overall clarity and brilliance of the diamond, and they may even weaken the diamond’s structural integrity. While these diamonds are the most affordable, they are generally not recommended for fine jewelry due to the noticeable flaws.

• I1: Inclusions are visible to the naked eye but do not affect the diamond’s integrity.
• I2: Inclusions are obvious and may affect the diamond’s brilliance.
• I3: Inclusions are extremely obvious and can significantly affect the diamond’s appearance and durability.

How Does Clarity Affect the Diamond’s Appearance?

The clarity of a diamond influences how much light is able to pass through and reflect within the stone. The fewer inclusions and blemishes a diamond has, the more brilliant and sparkling it will appear. This is why diamonds with higher clarity grades tend to look cleaner and brighter, especially under bright light.

However, it’s important to remember that the differences in clarity grades are not always noticeable to the naked eye. For example, many diamonds graded VSI or lower will look flawless when viewed from a normal distance. Therefore, focusing solely on clarity may not be the best approach. It’s often more practical to balance clarity with other factors, such as carat weight, color, and cut, for an optimal result.

Tips for Choosing the Right Lab Diamond Clarity

1. Consider Your Budget: Lab diamonds with higher clarity grades, such as FL or IF, come at a premium. If you’re working with a budget, you might find great value in diamonds with slightly lower clarity grades, such as VSI or SI1, which still offer an excellent appearance.
2. Don’t Overlook Cut Quality: The cut of a diamond has a major impact on its overall appearance. Even if a diamond has a lower clarity grade, a well-cut diamond can still have an amazing sparkle and brilliance.
3. Inspect Under Magnification: If you’re purchasing a diamond online or in-store, ask to inspect the diamond under magnification to better understand its clarity grade. Keep in mind that inclusions may not be visible to the naked eye.
4. Balance Clarity with Other Factors: Consider all the factors—cut, color, carat, and clarity—when selecting your lab-grown diamond. The perfect balance will give you a stunning piece of jewelry at a price point that works for you.

Conclusion

The lab diamond clarity chart is an essential tool when choosing the right diamond for your jewelry. While clarity plays a crucial role in determining a diamond’s appearance, it’s important to remember that other factors, such as cut, color, and carat, contribute significantly to the overall beauty and value. By understanding the clarity grades and evaluating other factors, you can find the perfect lab diamond that suits your style and budget.

If you’re ready to make your purchase, always consider working with reputable jewelers who can provide detailed information about the lab-grown diamond’s clarity and other characteristics.