What Is An Eye-clean Diamond
Have you ever been in a jewellery store and heard the phrase “eye-clean diamond” and wondered what exactly it means and should you be investing in one? Here is a short guide to “eye clean diamonds” to help you better understand this terminology and its implications in your choice of diamond:
In short: An eye-clean diamond has inclusions invisible to the unaided eye at normal viewing distance (around 25-30cm). Most VS1, VS2 and many SI1 diamonds qualify; SI2 is borderline depending on shape and inclusion type. Step cuts (emerald, Asscher) need VS1 or better to stay eye-clean; round brilliants stay clean down to SI1. UK 2025 buyers save £400-£900 per carat choosing eye-clean SI1 over VS1 in round cuts.
What Is An “Eye-Clean” Diamond?
“Eye-clean” is a term that is used in the jewellery trade associated with diamond grading. It is used to describe the clarity of a diamond that is visibly clear to the naked eye when looked at from the top and without magnification i.e. a diamond that has no visible inclusions that can be seen unaided. When looking for a good quality diamond this is an important consideration as some diamonds can disappoint with noticeable inclusions apparent when viewed with the naked eye.
How Are Diamonds Graded For Clarity?
Diamonds are graded for clarity using a 10x magnification loupe which makes it easier to view naturally occurring clarity characteristics or inclusions. The clarity of the diamond is evaluated on the specific internal inclusions and external blemishes which are then further assessed on their location, orientation and overall visibility. The less inclusions/flaws that are found in a polished diamond the more rare the diamond becomes and in turn more expensive. Clarity should not be confused with brilliance and this is a common mistake. Investing in a higher clarity diamond such as a VVS2, IF or VVS1 will not necessarily mean that you will have purchased a sparkling diamond. It is the cut of a diamond that determines the amount of light that is reflected from the diamond so caused brilliance and only rarely does clarity affect transparency, so therefore diamond clarity should be solely viewed as a rarity characteristic.