Diamond Basics
What Is Diamond Clarity?
Clarity grades the tiny internal inclusions and surface blemishes inside a diamond, from Flawless to Included.
The clarity scale
FL (Flawless), IF (Internally Flawless), VVS1–VVS2 (very, very slightly included), VS1–VS2 (very slightly included), SI1–SI2 (slightly included), and I1–I3 (included). Grades are judged under 10x magnification by trained graders.
What 'eye-clean' means
Most VS2 and many SI1 diamonds show no inclusions to the naked eye. This is often the best value: you pay for beauty you can see, not rarity you cannot.
Shape matters
Step cuts like emerald, Asscher and baguette have open, mirror-like facets that reveal inclusions more easily, so choose VS1 or higher for those shapes. Brilliant cuts hide inclusions better.
Buyer checklist
- ✓ Look at the inclusion plot on the report
- ✓ View the stone under a 10x loupe
- ✓ Avoid inclusions near the girdle that could weaken the stone
Verification tools & references
Every Riakoob piece arrives certified, insured and covered by our 12-month value promise.
Browse the collection