When shopping for diamond jewelry, whether natural, lab-grown, or Moissanite diamonds, the clarity of the stone is one of the most crucial quality attributes to understand. It directly influences brilliance, appearance, and value. A clarity chart helps you quickly see the trade-offs: flawless perfection comes at a premium, while small, well-placed inclusions may be invisible to the naked eye.
In this post, you'll learn how clarity works, how it is graded, and how Solomon & Co. applies clarity standards across their jewelry lines to deliver sparkle, assurance, and smart value.
What is Diamond Clarity?
Diamond clarity describes the presence (or absence) of internal imperfections, known as inclusions, and surface irregularities, known as blemishes. Inclusions might include tiny crystals, feathers, clouds, or internal graining; blemishes might be scratches, pits, or polishing lines on the surface. A gemologist examines the stone under 10× magnification and assigns a clarity grade based on the number, size, color, position, and visibility of these features.
It’s important to note: not all inclusions affect beauty or durability. Many are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye. The goal of grading is to help buyers distinguish among levels of “cleanliness” that may or may not be perceptible in real-life wear.
The 4 Cs: Where Clarity Fits In
In diamond grading, the well-known “4 Cs” are Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat. Clarity is the third “C,” and it often has less visual impact (to the untrained eye) than cut or color, but in higher grades, clarity can drive up cost. A well-cut, slightly included diamond may appear more brilliant than a flawless stone cut poorly.
Standard Diamond Clarity Scale (GIA/IGI/WJC)
Most reputable grading labs (GIA, IGI, AGS, WJC) use a clarity scale similar to the following:
- Flawless (FL)/Internally Flawless (IF)
- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1/VVS2)
- Very Slightly Included (VS1/VS2)
- Slightly Included (SI1/SI2)
- Included (I1/I2/I3)
Let’s go through what each means:
Flawless (FL)/Internally Flawless (IF)
No internal inclusions under 10× magnification (FL), or only tiny surface blemishes, but no internal inclusions (IF). These are extremely rare and command the highest premiums.
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1/VVS2)
Inclusions are so tiny that they are difficult even for skilled graders to locate under 10× magnification. Visually, VVS diamonds typically look perfect to the naked eye.
Very Slightly Included (VS1/VS2)
Inclusions are minor and hard to detect, even under 10×. Many VS stones are “eye-clean” (see next section). This is a sweet spot in many markets.
Slightly Included (SI1/SI2)
Inclusions are more visible under magnification, and sometimes under close scrutiny to the naked eye, depending on the location. Many SI1 stones, however, still offer good value if well-chosen.
Included (I1/I2/I3)
Inclusions are evident under 10× magnification and often visible to the naked eye. Structural concerns may arise in some cases with heavy inclusions.
How Inclusions Affect Appearance & Value
- Brightness & Brilliance: If inclusion blocks light passage in a critical facet, it can dull sparkle.
- Visibility: Larger, darker, or centrally located inclusions are more noticeable.
- Durability: Cracks, feathers or inclusions near edges may compromise strength under stress.
- Value & Price: Lower clarity grades generally cost less. The jump from SI to VS, or VS to VVS, can be steep.
“Eye-Clean” Diamonds: What That Means in Practice
Many buyers aim for an “eye-clean” stone, one where no inclusions are visible to the naked eye under normal viewing distance. In many markets, that means VS2 or better, sometimes SI1 if carefully selected. A clarity chart helps you see which grades commonly deliver eye-clean results, letting you allocate budget to other factors (cut, carat, or color).
Clarity in Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically the same as natural diamonds. Many grading labs historically applied the same clarity scale for both. Solomon & Co. offers lab-grown diamonds that meet the same 4Cs standards.
However, a recent industry update: GIA has announced it will discontinue issuing traditional 4Cs certificates (color, clarity, cut, carat) for lab-grown diamonds. That means future lab diamond certificates may use new standards or nomenclature. Buyers should check the issuing lab and understand how clarity is described in that context.
Clarity in Moissanite
Because Moissanite is a different material (silicon carbide), clarity grading is less standardized, but many sellers and gem labs apply a diamond-like clarity scheme for reference.
Typical Clarity Levels in Moissanite
Most Moissanites in the jewelry market are effectively “eye-clean” with clarity roughly comparable to VS on the diamond scale. Inclusions are minimal and rarely visible to the unaided eye.
Differences vs Diamond Clarity Grading
- The internal structures differ, some inclusions in Moissanite (e.g. clouds or small crystals) reflect differently than in diamond.
- Because Moissanite is lab-grown entirely, the process is more controlled, and defects can often be minimized before cutting.
- In practice, very few Moissanites are graded in the I or SI range, the vast majority sold are high-quality, low-inclusion stones.
Thus, for Moissanite jewelry, clarity is less of a struggle, the focus is more on cut, color, and overall sparkle.
Comparing Natural Diamonds, Lab Diamonds & Moissanite by Clarity
| Type | Clarity Profile | Visibility of Inclusions | Price Sensitivity | Durability Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Diamond | Wide range from I to FL | Inclusions more varied and sometimes prominent | Large premiums for high clarity | In rare cases, flaw structure may impact strength |
| Lab-Grown Diamond | Typically cleaner due to controlled growth | Many lab diamonds land in VS/VVS range | Clarity matters but origin gives cost advantage | Similar to natural in hardness/durability |
| Moissanite | Usually very clean by default | Rare visible inclusions | Clarity rarely a major cost driver | Very durable (Mohs ~9.25) |
How Solomon & Co. Leverages Clarity in The Jewelry Collections
Natural Diamond Offerings & Clarity Grades
Solomon & Co. curates a range of natural diamond jewelry where clarity grades are disclosed and aligned with industry standards. The collection of rings, earrings, and pendants presents natural diamonds with clarity levels that balance beauty and value.
Lab-Grown Diamond Lines & Their Clarity Certificates
The lab-grown diamond collection is built to mirror the excellence of natural stones, with the added benefit of eco-friendliness and cost savings. Solomon & Co. ensures the lab diamonds meet clarity standards comparable to natural diamonds, allowing buyers to enjoy high clarity with better affordability.
Given evolving certification practices (e.g. GIA’s decision on lab-grown certificates), Solomon & Co. is positioned to adapt with transparent lab reports and reliable grading labs.
Moissanite Jewelry by Solomon & Co. and Clarity Considerations
On Solomon & Co.’s diamond ring pages, they also carry Moissanite options (e.g. “Cluster Marquise and Round Moissanite Prong Set Wedding Band”) Because Moissanites are usually very clean by nature, Solomon & Co. emphasizes beauty, cut, and design over clarity concerns. In practice, their Moissanite pieces deliver stunning brilliance with minimal trade-offs.
Tips for Buyers: Choosing the Right Clarity Grade
- Start with “eye-clean”: Aim for a stone where no inclusions are visible under normal viewing. VS2 or VS1 are safe bets; well-selected SI1 may work, but test the stone in person.
- Prioritize cut over clarity sometimes: A poorly cut, flawless diamond may look duller than a well-cut VS.
- Consider the stone’s size: In smaller stones (<0.50 ct), inclusions are harder to see, so you may accept a lower clarity.
- For everyday wear: Choose clarity levels with a margin for small knocks. Avoid fragile inclusions near edges.
- High-clarity for prestige or resale: If ultimate rarity or resale value is your aim, aim for VVS or FL/IF.
How to Verify Clarity Claims: Certification & Reports
Always ask for a grading report from a recognized lab (GIA, IGI, AGS, etc.). Look at the plotted map of inclusions and their remarks. Compare the stone in hand vs the report’s diagram. For lab-grown diamonds, ensure the grading lab is reputable and understand how they describe clarity under the new standards.
Caring for and Maintaining Clarity Over Time
- Clean your jewelry gently using mild soap and a soft brush, dirt can mimic inclusions.
- Have your piece inspected periodically (prongs, settings), a knocked prong can chip a stone or force a fracture.
- Store pieces separately to avoid scratching or damage.
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, which may etch or damage surfaces.
Summary
Understanding the diamond clarity chart gives you confidence when comparing stones. Natural diamonds present the full spectrum of clarity, while lab-grown diamonds often tilt toward cleaner grades at better value. Moissanite typically offers an inherently clean appearance, making clarity a lesser worry.
Solomon & Co. stands out by offering across these three categories (natural, lab, and Moissanite) with clarity, transparency, excellent design, and careful curation. Whether you're investing in a natural diamond, choosing a sustainable lab-grown option, or selecting a bright Moissanite piece, Solomon & Co. ensures clarity, sparkle, and trust.
FAQs
1. Does a flawless (FL) diamond always look better than a VS diamond?
Not necessarily. Under normal viewing conditions, many VS or VVS stones look identical to FL to the naked eye. Cut and polish quality often has a stronger visible effect than clarity once you're in the eye-clean range.
2. Are lab-grown diamonds less durable because of clarity issues?
No. Lab-grown diamonds have the same physical hardness (Mohs 10) and durability as natural diamonds, independent of clarity grade.
3. Does Solomon & Co. provide clarity certification with every piece?
Yes, for natural and lab diamond pieces, Solomon & Co. discloses clarity reports from trusted grading labs. (Always confirm the specific listing.)
4. How visible are inclusions in Moissanite jewelry?
Very minimal. Most Moissanite gems are so clean that inclusions are undetectable to the naked eye, even though tiny internal features may exist under magnification.
5. With the GIA discontinuing 4Cs certification for lab diamonds, how should you assess clarity?
Look for reliable alternative gem labs, review internal inclusion maps, and compare with “equivalent clarity scales” used by those labs. Transparency from the jeweler (like Solomon & Co.) is key.
6. If you want maximum sparkle but a smaller budget, is Moissanite the better choice?
It can be. Moissanite offers exceptional brilliance at a lower cost, with minimal clarity concerns. But if you value owning a natural diamond, Solomon & Co.’s lab-grown or natural clarity-optimized options give strong trade-offs too.
7. Which diamond clarity is best?
Flawless (FL) or Internally Flawless (IF) are the best clarity grades; they have no visible flaws, even under magnification.
8. Is VS1 or VS2 a better diamond?
VS1 is slightly better than VS2 because it has fewer and smaller inclusions.
9. Is an I or an H diamond better?
H is better, it’s whiter and has less color than an I diamond.
10. What is a good clarity score for a diamond?
VS1 or VS2 is considered a good balance of quality and value.
11. Which diamond clarity is expensive?
Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds are the most expensive.
12. What is better, VS2 or VVS2?
VVS2 is better, it has fewer and smaller inclusions than VS2, making it clearer and more valuable.