The clarity of a diamond is simply a measurement of the absence of any internal flaws. There are guild lines for each of the clarity levels, however in the end it is a subjective science because the diamond grader's judgment determines the final clarity grade. The grading scale most commonly used was developed by the GIA .

It is important not to associate the “brilliance” of a diamond with its clarity, they are two distinct features. The brilliance of a diamond is strictly a function of the quality of the cut, the clarity is strictly a measure of the presence/absence of flaws. The only time the clarity can possibly affect the brilliance is if the inclusions are so large they actually dull the diamond. This would be in the I2 and I3 category (see chart below).

No two diamonds are alike. . . each one is truly unique. The clarity grading is done under a magnification of 10X (Ten times normal 20/20 vision). A jeweler’s loupe or a microscope are the two instruments used by gemologists to grade the diamonds. There are many different types of inclusions, please see our glossary for details.

Below is a listing of clarity categories and their descriptions.

	Clarity Category				Description
	FL/IF Flawless/ Internally Flawless				No internal or external flaws. Internally flawless. No internal flaws but a small external flaw. These diamonds are extremely rare and very beautiful
	VVS1/VVS2 Very Very Slightly Included				These diamonds contain inclusions that are very difficult even for an experienced graded to see under 10x magnification. VVS2 having slightly more inclusions that VVS1.
	VS1/VS2 Very Slightly Included				Diamonds contains inclusions that are somewhat difficult for an experienced diamond grader to see.
	SI1/SI2 Slightly Included				Diamonds contain inclusions that are noticeable to an experienced diamond grader but still invisible to the naked eye. This is an excellent value and a popular category.
	I1, I2, I3 Included / Imperfect				These inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and can be seen by the naked eye. These inclusions can be large enough to effect the brilliance and beauty of the diamond. Any diamond below I3 is considered industrial grade.