What Diamond Clarity Grade Should You Buy?

When buying a diamond, clarity is one of the most important factors affecting both appearance and price. Along with cut, color, and carat weight, clarity helps determine how valuable—and how beautiful—a diamond truly is.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need a flawless diamond to get stunning sparkle. In fact, many buyers today choose clarity grades that offer the best visual value for the money, especially with the rise of lab-grown diamonds.

Let’s break it all down.

What Is Diamond Clarity?

Diamond clarity refers to the number, size, and location of internal and external imperfections, known as inclusions and blemishes. These naturally occur as diamonds form under intense pressure and heat—or during lab growth.

Most inclusions are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye, especially in well-cut stones.

The Official Diamond Clarity Scale

The most widely accepted clarity grading system comes from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). From highest to lowest, the grades are:

• FL (Flawless) – No inclusions or blemishes

• IF (Internally Flawless) – No internal inclusions

• VVS1 / VVS2 – Very, very slightly included

• VS1 / VS2 – Very slightly included

• SI1 / SI2 – Slightly included

• I1 / I2 / I3 – Included (visible to the naked eye)

Note: SI3 is not an official GIA grade, though some sellers may use it informally. GIA classifies those stones as I-grade.

Why SI Clarity Diamonds Are So Popular

SI clarity diamonds strike the best balance between beauty and affordability, making them one of the most popular choices for engagement rings and fine jewelry.

SI1 Diamonds

• Inclusions are visible under magnification

• Eye-clean in most cases

• Excellent value for money

SI2 Diamonds

• Slightly more noticeable inclusions under magnification

• Often still eye-clean when viewed from the top

• Significantly more affordable than SI1

For many buyers, there is no visible difference between SI and higher clarity grades without magnification—so paying more often doesn’t improve appearance.

Lab-Grown Diamonds: Higher Clarity for Less

One major change in today’s diamond market is the rise of lab-grown diamonds.

Lab diamonds:

• Are real diamonds, not simulants

• Have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds

• Are often available in VS, VVS, or even IF clarity at a fraction of the price

This means buyers can now afford higher clarity grades without sacrificing size or budget.

For example:

• A natural SI1 diamond may cost the same as a lab-grown VVS2 diamond

• Lab diamonds often have fewer inclusions due to controlled growth environments

How to Choose the Right Clarity Grade

Here’s a simple buying strategy:

If buying a natural diamond:

• SI1 → Best overall value

• SI2 → Budget-friendly, inspect carefully

• VS2 or higher → Premium pricing with minimal visual difference

If buying a lab-grown diamond:

• VS or VVS → Exceptional clarity at accessible prices

• IF and FL are optional luxury upgrades

How Settings Affect Clarity

Diamond settings can help hide inclusions, especially:

• Prong settings

• Halo designs

• Bezel or side-stone settings

Inclusions near the edges are often completely hidden once mounted.

Always Ask for Certification

Whether natural or lab-grown, always request a grading report from a reputable lab such as:

• GIA

• IGI

• AGS

The certificate confirms the clarity grade and protects you from overpaying.

Final Thoughts: What Clarity Should You Buy?

If you want the best value, SI-grade diamonds—especially SI1—remain a smart choice. If you want higher clarity without the premium price, lab-grown diamonds open the door to VS and VVS grades that were once out of reach.

The key takeaway:

Buy what looks beautiful to your eye—not what sounds impressive on paper.

With today’s options, you can confidently choose a diamond that delivers sparkle, quality, and long-term satisfaction without overspending.