Understanding Diamond Clarity: Does It Really Matter?

When shopping for a diamond, one of the factors you'll come across is clarity. But does clarity really matter, or is it just another grading term that can be overemphasized? The truth is, while clarity is important, it may not be as crucial as other factors like cut. Understanding what clarity means and how it affects a diamond’s beauty will help you make a more informed choice.

What is Diamond Clarity?

Diamond clarity refers to the presence of internal inclusions and external blemishes within a stone. These natural characteristics are formed during a diamond’s creation and are graded on a scale established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA):

  • Flawless (FL) / Internally Flawless (IF) – No visible inclusions or blemishes even under 10x magnification.

  • Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1 & VVS2) – Inclusions are microscopic and difficult to detect even under magnification.

  • Very Slightly Included (VS1 & VS2) – Inclusions are minor and often not visible without magnification.

  • Slightly Included (SI1 & SI2) – Inclusions are noticeable under magnification and may be visible to the naked eye in SI2 diamonds.

  • Included (I1, I2, I3) – Inclusions are visible to the naked eye and may impact durability.

Does Clarity Impact a Diamond’s Appearance?

In many cases, the clarity of a diamond has minimal impact on its overall beauty. This is because most inclusions are microscopic and cannot be seen without magnification. A well-cut diamond with a slightly lower clarity grade will still appear bright and beautiful, whereas a flawless diamond with a poor cut may lack brilliance.

For most buyers, a VS1, VS2, or SI1 clarity diamond provides an excellent balance between appearance and value. These grades often have inclusions that are invisible to the naked eye, allowing you to invest more in other factors like cut or carat weight.

Clarity vs. Other Factors

When considering clarity, it’s essential to weigh it against other diamond characteristics. Cut quality is the most critical factor affecting brilliance, while color can influence how a diamond appears in different lighting. A well-cut diamond with SI1 clarity will generally look better than a poorly cut diamond with a higher clarity grade.

Final Thoughts

So, does diamond clarity really matter? Yes—but only to an extent. Unless you’re investing in a rare flawless diamond for collector value, choosing a clarity grade that offers eye-clean beauty rather than perfection is often the smarter approach. By prioritising cut and overall sparkle over microscopic imperfections, you can find a diamond that truly shines without overpaying for a feature you can’t see.