Clarity is the relative absence of inclusions and blemishes under controlled grading. Size, number, position, nature, and relief work together, so the grade alone is not the whole view.

A practical clarity guide that separates inclusions from blemishes, explains the five GIA grading factors, and avoids turning a grade into an eye-clean or durability promise.

What this guide covers

Distinguish internal or surface-reaching inclusions from external blemishes.
Read the grade with the plotted or listed characteristics where available.
Inspect the specific diamond for unaided-eye appearance and durability questions.

Five questions behind a GIA clarity grade

Size

How large or visible is the characteristic at the grading magnification?

Number

How many relevant characteristics or reflections are considered together?

Position

Where does the characteristic sit in the diamond and in the face-up view?

Nature

What type of inclusion or blemish is being observed?

Relief

How strongly does the characteristic contrast with the surrounding diamond?

Move from grade to specific stone

1 — Read the laboratory's scale
Confirm the report uses the GIA system or identify the issuing laboratory's own terminology and method.
2 — Find the characteristics
Use the report's plot, keys, or comments where available, then ask which features matter to this diamond.
3 — View under disclosed conditions
Compare face-up and side views at an ordinary distance, then use magnification for location and type.
4 — Escalate structural questions
Ask a qualified gemologist about surface-reaching or strategically placed features rather than diagnosing them from a photo.

A grade is not an eye-clean promise

Scope
Unaided-eye visibility changes with lighting, viewing distance, orientation, cut, size, and the observer. A clarity label cannot guarantee invisibility, beauty, or freedom from damage.

Clarity questions

Are inclusions always damage?

No. Inclusions are internal or surface-reaching clarity characteristics. Their type, origin, visibility, and durability relevance need specific examination.

Does a higher grade always look better without magnification?

Not necessarily to every observer. Compare the actual stones under the same disclosed viewing conditions.

Continue exploring

Read the clarity factors
Browse stones

Related guides

Diamond Education Center