Clarity explanation

Grading diamonds for clarity is the process for classifying the imperfections, both internal and external. Imperfections are called inclusions when internal and blemishes when external. The term clarity is preferred over purity because purity has a very narrow definition pure or impure. In order to accurately classify clarity in polished diamonds we need to have several levels of clarity.
 

FL-Flawless- These stones have no imperfections inside or on the outside of the stone under the magnification of a loupe of 10X magnification.


IF-Internally Flawless - This grade is awarded to diamonds with no internal flaws and only minor external blemishes. Nicks pits or girdle roughness, not on the table, which could be removed in re-polishing.


VVS1 , VVS2 - Very Very Slightly Imperfect - These stones have very, very small inclusions, which are extremely difficult to see under a loupe of 10X magnification.


VS1, VS2 - Very Slightly Imperfect - These stones have very small inclusions, which are slightly difficult to see under a loupe of 10X magnification.


SI1,SI2-Slightly Imperfect - These stones have inclusions, which are fairly easy to see under with a 10X magnification, and can be seen with the naked eye.


I1, I2, and I3-Imperfect - These stones have inclusions ranging from eye visible to very easily seen to the naked eye.

Flaws are caused by a shift in the pressure and or temperature during the time when the diamond is being formed. There are many types of imperfections, internal inclusions and external flaws.