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The GIA Clarity Scale contains 11 grades, with most diamonds falling into the VS
(very slightly included) or SI (slightly included) categories. In determining a
clarity grade, the GIA system considers the size, nature, position, color or
relief, and quantity of clarity characteristics visible under 10× magnification.
Flawless (FL) - No inclusions or blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using
10× magnification
Internally Flawless (IF) - No inclusions and only blemishes are visible to a
skilled grader using 10× magnification
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2) - Inclusions are difficult for a
skilled grader to see under 10× magnification
Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) - Inclusions are clearly visible under 10×
magnification but can be characterized as minor
Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) - Inclusions are noticeable to a skilled grader
using 10× magnification
Included (I1, I2, and I3) - Inclusions are obvious under 10× magnification and
may affect transparency and brilliance
How did the GIA Clarity Scale come about?
Like the color scale, GIA’s clarity grading system developed because jewelers
were using terms that were easily misinterpreted, such as "loupe clean," or
"piqué." Today, even if you buy a diamond in another part of the world, the
jeweler will likely use terms such as VVS1 or SI2, even if her language is
French or Japanese instead of English.
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