Flawless Diamonds and Clarity
This page summarizes clarity and Flawless grade, which are important when evaluating colorless diamonds.
Based on the GIA Clarity Scale, it outlines the differences from FL to I grades.
A 0.30 ct D color, FL (Flawless) diamond
Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth under extreme heat and pressure. Because of this natural process, most diamonds have internal inclusions or surface blemishes.
A Flawless diamond is one in which no inclusions or blemishes are visible at 10× magnification.
Among diamonds, each with its own natural characteristics, Flawless is an exceptionally rare clarity grade where those characteristics cannot be seen under standard examination.
Diamond clarity describes how visible inclusions and blemishes are within or on the surface of a diamond.
The fewer and less noticeable these characteristics are, the higher the clarity grade.
Clarity, however, is not judged simply by whether a diamond has imperfections or not. It also takes into account their size, position, color, number, and overall visibility.
GIA Clarity Scale
The GIA Clarity Scale is divided into 11 grades, from FL to I3.
Differences Between FL / IF / VVS / VS / SI / I
FL | Flawless
No inclusions or blemishes are visible under 10× magnification.
IF | Internally Flawless
No inclusions are visible under 10× magnification; only surface characteristics may be visible.
VVS1 / VVS2
Inclusions are very difficult to see under 10× magnification.
VS1 / VS2
Inclusions range from difficult to somewhat easy to see under 10× magnification.
SI1 / SI2
Inclusions are noticeable under 10× magnification.
I1 / I2 / I3
Inclusions are easy to see under 10× magnification and may affect transparency or brilliance.
Why Flawless Diamonds with No Visible Inclusions or Blemishes Are So Rare
Every diamond has its own natural characteristics. Very few diamonds show no visible inclusions or blemishes when examined under 10× magnification.
Flawless is a clarity grade that requires not only the inside of the diamond, but also its surface condition, to meet an exceptionally strict standard.
For this reason, Flawless diamonds are found in very limited numbers, and even many jewelers rarely have the opportunity to see one in person.
About GIA
GIA is an institute engaged in gemological research, education, and grading.
It is known for its role in the development of the 4Cs, which describe diamond quality, as well as the international diamond grading system.
GIA reports are used worldwide as reference documents for evaluating diamonds.
Related Pages
For more information on diamond handling, please see the page below.