In order to analyze the location and type of inclusions an expert grader at the GIA must examine each diamond under 10x magnification. Simply put, the fewer inclusions the more valuable the diamond. However, grades of SI and higher of GIA graded diamonds are indicative of being “eye-clean.” This means that inclusions are no longer visible to the naked eye. As a result, diamonds with higher grades become more expensive, due to rarity, but not necessarily more beautiful to the eye.
• Flawless (FL)- No inclusions or blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10× magnification
• Internally Flawless (IF)- No inclusions and only blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10× magnification
• Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)- Inclusions are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10× magnification
• Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)- Inclusions are minor and range from difficult to somewhat easy for a skilled grader to see under 10x
• Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)- Inclusions are noticeable to a skilled grader under 10x magnification
• Included (I1, I2, and I3)- Inclusions are obvious under 10× magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance
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