Diamond Clarity
Clarity measures the presence of natural inclusions and blemishes within a diamond. Graded under 10× magnification according to the GIA scale, clarity ranges from Flawless to Included — each grade reflecting the size, number, position, and visibility of internal characteristics.
Flawless
The rarest grade
No inclusions and no blemishes visible under 10× magnification. Fewer than 1% of all diamonds ever achieve this grade. The absolute pinnacle of clarity and purity.
Always eye-cleanInternally Flawless
Surface blemishes only
No internal inclusions visible under 10× magnification. Only insignificant surface blemishes are present — typically polish marks that can be removed by minor re-polishing.
Always eye-cleanVery Very Slightly Included
Minute inclusions
Inclusions so minute they are difficult for even a skilled grader to see under 10× magnification. VVS1 inclusions are typically on the pavilion side; VVS2 closer to the crown. Invisible to the naked eye in all cases.
Always eye-cleanVery Slightly Included
Minor inclusions
Minor inclusions ranging from difficult (VS1) to somewhat easy (VS2) for a trained grader to detect under 10× magnification. The most popular "sweet spot" — excellent clarity at a reasonable price. Nearly always eye-clean.
Generally eye-cleanSlightly Included
Noticeable inclusions
Inclusions are noticeable under 10× magnification and easy to identify. SI1 can still be eye-clean, especially in smaller stones and brilliant cuts. SI2 inclusions may be visible to the unaided eye, particularly in larger diamonds or step cuts.
SI1 often eye-clean · SI2 may show inclusionsIncluded
Obvious inclusions
Inclusions are obvious under 10× magnification and typically visible to the naked eye. They may affect transparency, brilliance, and structural durability. I2 and I3 diamonds have prominent inclusions that significantly impact appearance.
Inclusions visible to the naked eyeAt EPL Diamond, we select only stones that meet the highest standards of clarity — ensuring every piece radiates pure, uncompromised brilliance.