Diamond clarity measures how free a diamond is from inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (surface imperfections), graded from Flawless to Included on the GIA scale. The grades are: FL (Flawless, no imperfections), IF (Internally Flawless, surface blemishes only), VVS1-VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included, minute inclusions), VS1-VS2 (Very Slightly Included, minor inclusions), SI1-SI2 (Slightly Included, noticeable inclusions), and I1-I3 (Included, obvious inclusions). For best value, focus on VS2 or SI1 grades, which are often eye-clean (no visible inclusions to the naked eye) while costing significantly less than VVS or FL grades. The key is choosing a diamond that looks clean to your eye rather than paying premiums for microscopic perfection you'll never see.
Understanding Diamond Clarity
When shopping for a diamond, you'll encounter clarity as one of the famous 4 C's that determine diamond quality and value. Clarity refers to the presence or absence of inclusions and blemishes that formed during the diamond's creation or were caused during cutting and polishing.
Every diamond is truly unique because of its clarity characteristics. Think of them like fingerprints that make each diamond one of a kind. While many people believe they need a flawless diamond, the reality is that most clarity characteristics are completely invisible without magnification. Understanding the clarity scale helps you make smart decisions and avoid overpaying for perfection you'll never see.
The diamond clarity grading system was standardized in 1953 when Richard T. Liddicoat and colleagues at the Gemological Institute of America established a scientific method for evaluating diamonds. Before GIA created this system, diamond descriptions were inconsistent and subjective, making it difficult for buyers to compare stones. The GIA clarity scale brought objectivity and consistency to the industry, creating a universal language that's now used worldwide.
Inclusions vs Blemishes: What's the Difference?
Before diving into clarity grades, it's important to understand the two types of clarity characteristics that affect diamond grading.
Inclusions
Inclusions are internal characteristics trapped within the diamond or extending into it from the surface. They form naturally during the diamond's crystallization process deep underground or in laboratory growth chambers for lab-created diamonds. Common types of inclusions include:
Crystals are tiny mineral crystals trapped inside the diamond during formation. These can be white, black, or colored depending on the type of mineral. Small, white crystals usually have minimal impact on appearance, while dark crystals are more noticeable.
Feathers are internal fractures or breaks within the diamond's crystal structure. They're called feathers because they often have a delicate, feathery appearance under magnification. Small feathers don't typically affect durability, but large feathers extending to the surface can make diamonds more vulnerable to damage.
Clouds are groups of tiny pinpoint inclusions clustered together. When viewed under magnification, they create a hazy or cloudy appearance. Not all clouds affect transparency, but dense clouds can make a diamond appear milky or reduce its brilliance.
Pinpoints are tiny crystal inclusions that appear as dots under magnification. Individual pinpoints are so small they're often nearly impossible to see, but multiple pinpoints can collectively impact clarity grades.
Needles are long, thin rod-shaped inclusions that look like tiny needles inside the diamond. Light-colored needles are usually difficult to see, while dark needles are more noticeable.
Internal graining are subtle lines or planes within the diamond caused by irregular crystal growth. They can appear as whitish or colored lines and may slightly affect transparency if severe.
Blemishes
Blemishes are external surface characteristics that don't penetrate into the diamond. They're typically caused during cutting, polishing, or everyday wear. Common blemishes include:
Scratches are thin lines on the diamond's surface caused by abrasion. While diamonds are the hardest natural material, they can still be scratched by other diamonds.
Nicks are small chips or indentations on the surface, usually along facet edges or at the girdle (widest part of the diamond).
Pits are tiny holes or indentations on the diamond's surface.
Polish marks are subtle surface irregularities left by the polishing process. They appear as faint lines or hazy areas on facets.
Blemishes generally have less impact on clarity grades than inclusions. They're also easier to address because surface problems can sometimes be repolished away, while inclusions are permanent.
The GIA Diamond Clarity Scale
The GIA clarity scale contains 11 specific grades divided into six categories, ranging from Flawless to Included. All grades are determined by examining the diamond face-up under 10x magnification using a jeweler's loupe or microscope.
Flawless (FL)
Flawless diamonds have absolutely no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. These are extraordinarily rare, representing less than 1% of all diamonds. Even experienced gemologists may take considerable time examining a diamond before determining it's truly flawless.
FL diamonds are often called "museum quality" due to their exceptional rarity. They command premium prices that reflect their scarcity. However, from a practical standpoint, flawless diamonds offer no visual advantage over slightly lower grades since the differences aren't visible without extreme magnification.
Internally Flawless (IF)
Internally Flawless diamonds have no inclusions visible under 10x magnification. They may have insignificant surface blemishes but no internal characteristics whatsoever.
The IF grade was added to the GIA scale in the 1970s to give diamond cutters flexibility. Previously, cutters aggressively removed any surface blemishes to achieve higher grades, which sometimes compromised the diamond's proportions and cut quality. With the IF grade, a diamond with minor surface marks can still receive a grade higher than VVS.
IF diamonds are extremely rare and expensive, though slightly more available than FL grades. Like flawless diamonds, they're investment or collector-grade stones that don't offer visible benefits over lower grades.
Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)
VVS diamonds contain minute inclusions that are extremely difficult for skilled graders to see under 10x magnification. The differences between VVS1 and VVS2 are subtle.
VVS1 diamonds have inclusions that are extremely difficult to detect even under magnification. A trained gemologist may need several minutes of careful examination to locate these minuscule characteristics. They might include minute pinpoints, faint internal graining, or other barely perceptible features.
VVS2 diamonds have inclusions that are very difficult to see under magnification but slightly easier to detect than VVS1. The inclusions are still minute and often look like tiny specks of dust under a loupe.
VVS diamonds are exceptionally clean and represent very high quality. All VVS diamonds are eye-clean, meaning you cannot see any inclusions without magnification. These grades appeal to buyers wanting near-perfection and willing to pay significant premiums for it.
Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)
VS diamonds contain minor inclusions that range from difficult to somewhat easy for trained graders to see under 10x magnification. These are among the most popular clarity grades because they offer excellent appearance at more accessible prices.
VS1 diamonds have inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification. A gemologist can find them but it requires careful examination. Common VS1 inclusions include small crystals, feathers, or clouds positioned away from the center of the table.
VS2 diamonds have inclusions that are somewhat easy to see under 10x magnification, though they still require trained eyes and proper magnification. The inclusions might be slightly larger, more numerous, or better positioned for visibility compared to VS1.
VS diamonds are generally eye-clean, meaning the vast majority have no inclusions visible to the naked eye. This makes VS2 an exceptional value grade, offering beautiful appearance without the premium prices of VVS grades.
Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)
SI diamonds contain noticeable inclusions that are fairly easy to see under 10x magnification. The key distinction with SI grades is that some diamonds may have inclusions visible to the unaided eye, while others remain eye-clean.
SI1 diamonds have inclusions that are noticeable under magnification. Many SI1 diamonds are still eye-clean, especially in smaller carat sizes or certain shapes. The inclusions might include small crystals, feathers, or clouds that are visible under a loupe but not to the naked eye in many cases.
SI2 diamonds have inclusions that are more easily seen under magnification and may be visible to the naked eye, particularly in larger diamonds or step-cut shapes like emerald cuts. The inclusions could be larger, more numerous, or centrally located, making them more apparent.
SI clarity grades offer the best value opportunities for smart shoppers. While these grades sound low, many SI1 and some SI2 diamonds are completely eye-clean and look identical to higher-clarity diamonds when viewed normally. The key is evaluating each diamond individually rather than dismissing SI grades entirely.
Included (I1, I2, and I3)
Included diamonds have obvious inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification and typically apparent to the naked eye. These inclusions can affect the diamond's transparency, brilliance, and in severe cases, durability.
I1 diamonds have inclusions that are obvious under magnification and usually visible to the unaided eye. However, some I1 diamonds may still be acceptable depending on inclusion type, location, and size, especially in very small diamonds or when set in designs that hide the inclusions.
I2 diamonds have numerous or prominent inclusions that are easily visible to the naked eye and may affect transparency and brilliance noticeably.
I3 diamonds have severe inclusions that are very obvious to the naked eye, definitely affect brilliance and transparency, and may compromise durability.
Most reputable jewelers don't carry I2 or I3 diamonds for engagement rings or fine jewelry. I1 diamonds might work in small accent stones or in budget-conscious situations, but should generally be avoided for center stones.
How Clarity Grades Are Determined
Professional gemologists evaluate diamond clarity using a systematic process with standardized conditions. Understanding what graders consider helps you appreciate what the clarity grades represent.
The Five Factors
Clarity grades are determined by assessing five specific factors:
Size refers to how large the inclusions or blemishes are. Generally, larger characteristics have greater impact on the clarity grade. Very small inclusions might result in VVS grades, while larger ones push grades down to VS, SI, or I categories. The inclusions with the largest impact are called "grade setters" because they determine the final grade.
Number accounts for how many characteristics are present. More inclusions typically mean lower clarity grades, though this isn't absolute. A diamond with one prominent inclusion might receive a lower grade than a diamond with several tiny inclusions that are harder to see.
Position describes where characteristics are located within the diamond. Inclusions directly under the table (the large flat top facet) are most visible and have the greatest impact on clarity grades. Inclusions near the girdle (outer edge) are less noticeable and easier to hide under prongs. Characteristics near the culet (pointed bottom) have less impact because they're viewed through multiple facets that can hide them.
Nature refers to the type of characteristic and whether it's an inclusion or blemish. Some types of inclusions are more noticeable or potentially problematic than others. For example, dark crystals are more visible than white ones. Feathers that reach the surface could affect durability. Clouds might impact transparency more than pinpoints.
Relief describes how much the inclusion contrasts with the host diamond. High relief means the inclusion is easily distinguished from the surrounding diamond, while low relief means it blends in more. Greater relief results in more noticeable inclusions and lower clarity grades.
The Grading Process
Gemologists examine diamonds under controlled conditions using 10x magnification, proper lighting, and standardized procedures. They view the diamond face-up (table facing up) in four different directions, rotating the stone 90 degrees each time to see all characteristics from different angles.
Higher magnification may be used to identify tiny inclusions, but the final grade is always determined at 10x magnification. This standardized approach ensures consistency across all gemological laboratories and graders worldwide.
Understanding Eye-Clean Diamonds
The most practical consideration when choosing diamond clarity is whether the diamond is "eye-clean." This term means no inclusions or blemishes are visible when viewing the diamond with the unaided eye from a normal distance (about 6 to 12 inches away).
Eye-clean diamonds look perfect to everyone except gemologists with loupes. Since nobody examines your jewelry under magnification during normal wear, eye-clean appearance is what actually matters for daily enjoyment of your diamond.
Here's what's remarkable: many diamonds graded VS2, SI1, and even some SI2 are completely eye-clean. The characteristics that lower their clarity grades are only visible under magnification. This creates exceptional value opportunities because you can get a diamond that looks flawless for a fraction of what truly flawless grades cost.
Not all diamonds within a clarity grade are equally eye-clean. Two VS2 diamonds might have very different appearances depending on inclusion type and location. One might have tiny white crystals near the edge that are invisible to the eye, while another might have a dark crystal under the table that's just barely visible. Both receive VS2 grades, but one is more desirable than the other.
This is why viewing the actual diamond or high-quality photos is essential. Never buy a diamond based on clarity grade alone without seeing what those specific inclusions look like and where they're located.
Best Value Clarity Grades
Understanding which clarity grades offer the best balance of beauty and value helps you maximize your diamond budget.
VS2: The Sweet Spot for Most Buyers
VS2 clarity offers exceptional value for several reasons. VS2 diamonds are almost always eye-clean, have no inclusions visible during normal viewing, and cost significantly less than VVS or FL grades (often 15% to 30% less than VVS2).
The inclusions in VS2 diamonds are minor enough that they don't affect brilliance or beauty. They're simply small characteristics visible under magnification that have no impact on how the diamond looks when worn. For most engagement rings and jewelry, VS2 is the ideal clarity grade that balances quality and value.
SI1: Maximum Value for Budget-Conscious Buyers
SI1 clarity provides outstanding value if you're willing to be selective. Many SI1 diamonds are eye-clean, especially in brilliant-cut shapes under 1.5 carats. The inclusions might be noticeable under a loupe but invisible to the naked eye.
SI1 diamonds cost substantially less than VS grades (often 20% to 40% less), allowing you to allocate more budget to cut quality, color, or carat weight. The key is carefully evaluating each SI1 diamond to ensure it's eye-clean. Not all SI1 diamonds are, so view the stone or request detailed photos showing any inclusions.
SI1 works particularly well in certain situations. In smaller carat weights (under 1 carat), inclusions are less visible. In brilliant-cut shapes like round, princess, or cushion, the multiple facets help hide inclusions. In yellow or rose gold settings, slight inclusions are less noticeable against the warm metal.
When to Consider VVS Grades
VVS clarity makes sense in specific circumstances. For larger diamonds (over 2 carats), you might want higher clarity because inclusions become more visible as size increases. For step-cut shapes like emerald or Asscher cuts, which have large open facets that don't hide inclusions well, higher clarity ensures eye-clean appearance.
VVS grades also appeal if you want investment-grade quality, plan to upgrade significantly in the future and want the highest quality now, or simply value knowing your diamond is nearly flawless regardless of visibility.
However, for most buyers, the premium you pay for VVS over VS2 doesn't deliver visible benefits. The difference exists only under magnification.
Clarity Grades to Avoid
Flawless and Internally Flawless diamonds offer no visual advantage over VVS grades yet cost dramatically more. Unless you're a collector seeking the absolute rarest grades, these are poor value choices.
I2 and I3 diamonds should be avoided entirely for engagement rings and fine jewelry. The inclusions are obvious, affect brilliance and beauty, and may compromise durability. Even I1 diamonds are risky unless you've carefully examined the specific stone and confirmed the inclusions are acceptable.
How Clarity Interacts with Other Diamond Characteristics
Clarity doesn't exist in isolation. It interacts with other diamond characteristics in ways that affect both appearance and value.
Carat Weight and Clarity
As diamonds increase in size, clarity becomes more important. Inclusions that are invisible in a 0.75-carat diamond might be visible in a 2-carat diamond because the larger surface area makes characteristics more apparent.
For diamonds under 1 carat, you can confidently consider SI1 clarity and often find eye-clean examples. For diamonds 1 to 1.5 carats, VS2 and SI1 remain good choices with careful selection. For diamonds over 1.5 carats, consider VS2 or better to ensure eye-clean appearance, especially for step-cut shapes.
Diamond Shape and Clarity
Different shapes hide or reveal inclusions differently based on their faceting patterns.
Brilliant cuts (round, oval, princess, cushion) have many small facets that break up light and help hide inclusions. You can often go lower on the clarity scale with these shapes. Step cuts (emerald, Asscher) have large, open facets that act like windows into the diamond. They reveal inclusions more readily, requiring higher clarity grades for eye-clean appearance.
Elongated shapes (oval, marquise, pear) can sometimes hide inclusions better at the ends where facets are smaller and more numerous.
Color and Clarity
There's an interesting relationship between color and clarity grades. If you're choosing a lower color grade (I, J, K) for budget reasons or preference, you can often also choose lower clarity because the faint color can help mask slight inclusions. The inclusions blend more with the subtle warmth in the diamond.
Conversely, if you're investing in D to F colorless diamonds, you might want higher clarity to match the overall premium quality. It feels incongruous to have a colorless diamond with noticeable inclusions.
Cut Quality and Clarity
Never sacrifice cut quality to get higher clarity. A poorly cut VS1 diamond will look worse than an excellently cut SI1 diamond. Cut is the most important of the 4 C's because it controls brilliance and sparkle.
Additionally, excellent cut can sometimes help hide inclusions by reflecting light in ways that make characteristics less noticeable. Poor cut might make even minor inclusions more obvious due to light leakage.
Common Clarity Characteristics and Their Impact
Understanding specific types of inclusions helps you evaluate individual diamonds rather than relying solely on grades.
Low-Impact Inclusions
Some inclusion types have minimal effect on appearance. White or colorless crystals, especially when small and well-positioned, are nearly impossible to see even under magnification. Pinpoints are tiny and usually insignificant unless present in large numbers.
Small feathers away from the table and not reaching the surface have little visual impact. Needles if light-colored and thin are barely visible.
Moderate-Impact Inclusions
Certain inclusions are more noticeable but not necessarily problematic. Clouds can be concerning if they're dense enough to create haziness, but light clouds have minimal effect. You'll sometimes see grading reports note "clarity grade based on clouds not shown," which can be acceptable if you verify the clouds don't affect transparency.
Twinning wisps are series of pinpoints, clouds, or crystals that formed during crystal growth. They're more visible than simple pinpoints but still acceptable in many cases.
Dark crystals or colored inclusions contrast more with the diamond and are more visible than white inclusions. Location matters significantly here.
High-Impact Inclusions
Some characteristics should raise concerns. Large feathers extending to the surface could affect durability, creating a potential weak point. Black or very dark crystals are highly visible, especially under the table.
Dense clouds that create noticeable haziness or milky appearance reduce brilliance and should be avoided. Large cavities or chips compromise both appearance and structural integrity.
Shopping Tips for Diamond Clarity
Armed with knowledge about clarity grades, use these practical strategies when selecting your diamond.
Always View the Diamond
Never buy a diamond based on a grading report alone. The certificate tells you the grade but doesn't show you what the specific inclusions look like, where they're located, or whether they're visible to your eye.
Request high-quality photos showing the diamond from multiple angles. Many online retailers offer 360-degree videos or magnified views. Better yet, view diamonds in person under normal lighting conditions, not just the bright lights jewelers use.
Focus on Eye-Clean Appearance
Ask explicitly whether the diamond is eye-clean. Reputable jewelers will honestly tell you if inclusions are visible to the naked eye. Don't assume a particular grade is automatically eye-clean. Verify for each specific diamond.
When viewing, step back to a normal distance rather than examining from inches away. How the diamond looks from normal viewing distance is what matters.
Consider Your Setting
The setting style can hide or reveal inclusions. Prongs positioned over edge inclusions can cover them completely. Bezel settings that enclose the diamond's perimeter hide girdle characteristics. Halo settings with small diamonds surrounding the center can draw attention away from minor inclusions.
If you find a diamond with an inclusion near the edge, ask if it can be positioned under a prong when set. This simple adjustment can make an otherwise visible inclusion completely hidden.
Avoid Problematic Wording on Certificates
Be wary of grading reports that state "clarity grade based on clouds not shown." While clouds are common inclusions, this notation sometimes indicates extensive clouds that affect transparency but are too diffuse to plot on the clarity diagram. Not all "clouds not shown" diamonds are problematic, but verify the diamond doesn't have noticeable haziness.
Similarly, watch for comments about durability concerns related to large feathers or other characteristics that might make the diamond fragile.
Use Clarity as a Value Lever
If you have a fixed budget, adjusting clarity is one of the easiest ways to get more diamond. Dropping from VVS2 to VS2 might save 20% to 30% without any visible difference. Dropping to SI1 could save even more while still maintaining eye-clean appearance with careful selection.
Use the money saved on clarity to upgrade cut quality (most important), increase carat weight (more noticeable), or improve color grade (also quite noticeable).
Lab-Created Diamonds and Clarity
Lab-created diamonds exhibit the same clarity characteristics and are graded using the same GIA scale as natural diamonds. Because lab diamonds are real diamonds with identical composition and structure, they develop inclusions during their growth process just like natural diamonds.
In fact, lab diamonds sometimes have unique inclusion types that gemologists can use to identify them as lab-grown. For example, HPHT lab diamonds might contain metallic inclusions from the growth process, while CVD lab diamonds might show distinct growth patterns.
The value considerations for clarity remain the same with lab diamonds. Focus on eye-clean appearance, prioritize VS2 or SI1 for best value, and don't overpay for flawless or VVS grades you'll never see the benefit of.
At FJD, we sell lab-created diamonds at cost plus just 15%, offering exceptional value. This transparent pricing means you can afford higher clarity grades than you might with conventional retailers, though we still recommend prioritizing cut quality and eye-clean appearance over chase the highest clarity grades.
FAQs About Diamond Clarity
Q: What does VS2 clarity mean?
A: VS2 (Very Slightly Included 2) means the diamond has minor inclusions that are somewhat easy for trained graders to see under 10x magnification but are generally not visible to the naked eye. VS2 diamonds are almost always eye-clean and offer excellent value, making this grade one of the most popular choices for engagement rings.
Q: Is SI1 clarity good for an engagement ring?
A: Yes, SI1 clarity can be an excellent choice for engagement rings if the diamond is eye-clean. Many SI1 diamonds have no visible inclusions to the naked eye, especially in smaller sizes and brilliant-cut shapes. SI1 offers outstanding value, typically costing 20% to 40% less than VS grades while looking identical when worn. The key is viewing the specific diamond to confirm it's eye-clean.
Q: What's the difference between VVS1 and VVS2?
A: Both VVS1 and VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included) contain minute inclusions that are extremely difficult to see under 10x magnification. VVS1 has inclusions that are even harder to detect than VVS2, requiring skilled graders several minutes to locate. Both grades are eye-clean and represent exceptional quality, with the price difference reflecting the subtle grading distinction rather than any visible difference.
Q: Can you see SI2 inclusions with the naked eye?
A: Sometimes yes, sometimes no. SI2 diamonds have inclusions that are noticeable under magnification and may be visible to the naked eye, particularly in larger diamonds or step-cut shapes. However, some SI2 diamonds remain eye-clean depending on the type, location, and color of the inclusions. Always view SI2 diamonds individually to assess whether inclusions are visible to you.
Q: Is flawless clarity worth the cost?
A: For most buyers, no. Flawless (FL) diamonds cost dramatically more than VVS or VS grades despite looking identical to the naked eye. The perfection exists only under magnification. Unless you're a collector seeking the rarest grades or making an investment-grade purchase, you'll get better value by choosing VS2 or SI1 clarity and allocating the savings to cut quality or carat weight.
Q: How do I know if a diamond is eye-clean?
A: The best way is to view the diamond yourself under normal lighting conditions from about 6 to 12 inches away. If you cannot see any inclusions without magnification, the diamond is eye-clean. When shopping online, request detailed photos or videos and ask the jeweler explicitly whether the diamond is eye-clean. Reputable jewelers will answer honestly.
Q: Does clarity affect a diamond's sparkle?
A: Generally, no. Clarity affects how many inclusions are visible under magnification, but most clarity grades have no impact on brilliance or sparkle. The exception is heavily included diamonds (I2, I3) or diamonds with dense clouds that create haziness and reduce transparency. For VS and SI grades, clarity does not affect sparkle. Cut quality is what determines how much a diamond sparkles.
Q: Which clarity grade offers the best value?
A: VS2 and SI1 offer the best value for most buyers. VS2 diamonds are almost always eye-clean and cost significantly less than VVS grades. SI1 diamonds provide even better value if you're willing to carefully select eye-clean examples. These grades let you maximize carat weight or cut quality within your budget while ensuring the diamond looks perfect to the naked eye.
Q: What are the most common diamond inclusions?
A: The most common inclusions are crystals (tiny minerals trapped inside), pinpoints (minute dots), clouds (clusters of pinpoints), feathers (internal fractures), and needles (thin rod-shaped inclusions). Most of these are completely invisible without magnification, especially in VS and SI clarity grades. The type, size, and location of inclusions matter more than their presence alone.
Q: Do lab-created diamonds have the same clarity grades as natural diamonds?
A: Yes, lab-created diamonds are graded using the exact same GIA clarity scale as natural diamonds because they're real diamonds with identical properties. Lab diamonds can have any clarity grade from Flawless to Included. They develop inclusions during their growth process just like natural diamonds. The same value principles apply: prioritize eye-clean appearance over high grades you can't see.
Q: Can diamond inclusions get worse over time?
A: No, inclusions are permanent characteristics that don't change or grow. However, new surface damage can occur from wear, creating new blemishes. Also, if a diamond has a feather reaching the surface, it could potentially extend if the diamond receives a hard impact at that weak point. This is rare and mainly a concern with large feathers in lower clarity grades.
Q: Why do two diamonds with the same clarity grade look different?
A: Clarity grades represent ranges rather than exact specifications. Two VS2 diamonds might have different numbers, types, and locations of inclusions while both qualifying as VS2. One might have tiny white crystals near the edge while another has a small cloud under the table. Additionally, different diamond shapes and cuts hide or reveal inclusions differently. This is why viewing individual diamonds is essential.
Q: Does FJD help customers choose the right clarity grade?
A: Absolutely. Our diamond experts help you evaluate clarity grades based on your priorities and budget. We explain what you'll actually see versus what exists only under magnification, show you multiple clarity options side by side, and help you identify eye-clean diamonds that maximize value. With our cost-plus-15% pricing on lab-created diamonds, you can afford excellent clarity without overpaying for grades you'll never notice. We ensure you understand what you're buying and feel confident in your choice.