What is Diamond Clarity?

Diamond clarity refers to the presence of natural characteristics within a diamond called inclusions and blemishes. These features form during the diamond’s growth process.

Clarity grades describe how visible these characteristics are when a diamond is examined under 10× magnification using a jeweler’s loupe.

While clarity is one of the 4Cs used to evaluate diamonds, many inclusions are microscopic and have little to no impact on how a diamond looks in everyday wear.

Not All Lab Diamonds are Flawless

Just like natural diamonds, lab diamonds vary significantly in clarity. Some contain extremely small inclusions that are difficult to locate even under magnification, while others may have characteristics that are easier to see.

Not all inclusions are created equal. The size, type, and location of an inclusion all influence how noticeable it is and whether it affects the diamond’s appearance.

At Ada Diamonds, every diamond is inspected in person and guaranteed to be eye clean, meaning its inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. Most of the diamonds we select fall within the VVS1, VVS2, VS1, and VS2 clarity grades, which offer exceptional visual quality.

Clarity Characteristics in Lab Diamonds

Lab diamonds are graded using the same clarity standards as natural diamonds, but the types of inclusions they contain can sometimes differ.

Because lab diamonds are grown in controlled environments, certain growth-related characteristics may appear that are uncommon in natural diamonds. These can include small metallic inclusions from the growth process or subtle crystal growth patterns within the diamond.

These characteristics are typically microscopic, but they require careful evaluation to ensure they do not affect the diamond’s transparency, brilliance, or overall appearance.

This is why every diamond at Ada Diamonds is inspected in person before being offered to clients.

How Clarity Affects Price

Clarity is one of the four factors used to determine a diamond’s value. Higher clarity grades are generally rarer and therefore more expensive. However, many inclusions are extremely small and cannot be seen without magnification.

Because diamonds are normally viewed without magnification, the most important factor is whether the diamond appears clean to the naked eye rather than the clarity grade alone.