Diamond Grading Scales

Diamond Color Grading Scale (GIA D-to-Z Scale)

 

Diamond color is graded on the absence of color, with D being the most colorless and valuable. The scale progresses alphabetically to Z, with increasing light yellow or brown tint.

Color Grade Category Description
D - F Colorless The highest color grades, containing virtually no color. Differences between D, E, and F are typically only visible to an expert gemologist.
G - J Near Colorless Color is usually undetectable to the untrained naked eye, especially when mounted. They offer excellent value compared to colorless grades.
K - M Faint A noticeable yellow tint is present, even without comparing it to a higher-grade diamond.
N - R Very Light A very noticeable light yellow or brown tint is present.
S - Z Light A clear light yellow or brown color that is easily visible.

 

Diamond Clarity Grading Scale (GIA 11-Point Scale)

 

Diamond clarity is a measure of the absence of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external imperfections) when viewed under 10x magnification. The scale contains 11 specific grades, grouped into six main categories.

Clarity Grade Category Description
FL Flawless No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. Extremely rare.
IF Internally Flawless No inclusions visible under 10x magnification, but minor blemishes may be present on the surface.
VVS1 Very, Very Slightly Included (Grade 1) Inclusions are extremely difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification.
VVS2 Very, Very Slightly Included (Grade 2) Inclusions are very difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification.
VS1 Very Slightly Included (Grade 1) Inclusions are minor and range from difficult to somewhat easy for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification. Typically eye-clean (no inclusions visible to the naked eye).
VS2 Very Slightly Included (Grade 2) Inclusions are minor and noticeable to a skilled grader under 10x magnification. Typically eye-clean.
SI1 Slightly Included (Grade 1) Inclusions are noticeable to a skilled grader under 10x magnification. May be visible to the unaided eye in some diamonds.
SI2 Slightly Included (Grade 2) Inclusions are noticeable and easier to see under 10x magnification. Often visible to the unaided eye.
I1 Included (Grade 1) Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and may affect the diamond's transparency and brilliance. Usually visible to the naked eye.
I2 Included (Grade 2) Inclusions are obvious and often compromise the diamond's beauty or durability.
I3 Included (Grade 3) Inclusions are very obvious and cause severe beauty and/or durability deficits.