Diamond Clarity Grade I1

On the diamond clarity grading scale introduced by the g i a.

Diamond clarity grade i1.

This short video explains the gia clarity scale and how gia classifies diamonds with a clarity grade ranging from flawless to i 3 by using a 10x magnification loupe and a microscope to see and plot the diamond s inclusions. While there can sometimes be a hidden gem among the included grades as we ve outlined in our article on i1 clarity diamonds in general it s best to avoid i2 diamonds. Clarity refers to the blemishes and inclusions present in the stone. Please be aware though that the i1 clarity grade is really the very last clarity grade where eye clean diamonds can still be found and even then only with some searching and digging on your part.

I1 i2 i3 included diamonds i clarity diamonds have obvious inclusions that are likely to be visible and impact beauty. In such cases the i1 clarity inclusion will be much less noticeable to the naked eye if at all. Diamond clarity is the quality of diamonds that relates to the existence and visual appearance of internal characteristics of a diamond called inclusions and surface defects called blemishes clarity is one of the four cs of diamond grading the others being carat color and cut. I1 and i2 diamond clarity on the grading scale.

As i mentioned above most clarity grades are comprised of several to many smaller inclusions spread out over the area of the diamond. The diamond clarity grade ranges from internally flawless to included with the included grades 1 2 and 3 being the least desirable. I1 diamonds fall on the low end of the clarity scale. Generally speaking diamonds that fall within the included ranges i1 i3 would have their brilliance and fire negatively impacted.

Blue nile does not sell i clarity grade loose diamonds for engagement ring designs. At the lower clarities may have an effect on the diamond s durability. Gemological institute of america i is the lowest clarity grade the letter i stands for included. I1 the highest i2 and i3.

The gia diamond grading scale is divided into 6 categories and 11 diamond clarity grades. Inclusions are solids liquids or gases that were trapped in a mineral as it formed. The i1 clarity grade is assigned by gemological laboratories such as gia and ags when the diamond has inclusions that can be seen easily at 10x magnification this is true even for an unskilled lay person who s using the loupe for the first time. This grade is further subdivided into three sub grades.

In general we advise against i1 diamonds because inclusions at this level. Sometimes they can be seen with the naked eye. Many inclusions and blemishes are too tiny to be seen by anyone other than a trained diamond grader. Included diamonds with a clarity grade of 7 8 9 or 10 i1 i2 or i3 have inclusions that are obvious at 10x magnification.