Do lab grown diamonds have flaws?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds can have internal inclusions and surface blemishes, just like mined diamonds, and they are graded on the same clarity scale from Flawless to Included. Truly flawless stones are rare and command a premium in both categories. For most buyers, an eye-clean stone in the VS1–SI1 range offers the best balance of beauty and value.
A frequent misconception is that because lab-grown diamonds are made in controlled conditions, they must be perfect. In reality, crystal growth is never entirely uniform, so lab-grown diamonds carry the same kinds of natural-looking imperfections that give every diamond its individual character.
What counts as a flaw in a diamond?
Gemologists divide flaws into two groups: inclusions, which are internal features such as tiny crystals, feathers or pinpoints trapped inside the stone, and blemishes, which are surface features such as scratches, nicks or polish lines. Both are assessed under 10x magnification when a laboratory assigns a clarity grade.
The clarity scale applies equally
Lab-grown diamonds are graded on the standard clarity scale used for all diamonds: Flawless (FL), Internally Flawless (IF), Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1–VVS2), Very Slightly Included (VS1–VS2), Slightly Included (SI1–SI2) and Included (I1–I3). A GIA or IGI report will state the grade so you know exactly what you are buying. Our beginner's guide to diamond clarity explains each grade in plain terms.
Do the flaws look different from natural diamonds?
The types of inclusions can differ slightly by growth method. CVD and HPHT stones may show metallic traces or specific growth patterns that a gemologist can identify, but to the naked eye an eye-clean lab-grown diamond is indistinguishable from an eye-clean natural one. Origin is confirmed by certification, not by whether flaws are present.
How to choose the right clarity
- Aim for eye-clean — a stone with no inclusions visible to the unaided eye, often found from VS2 to SI1.
- Consider the shape: step cuts like emerald show inclusions more readily, so lean higher in clarity; brilliant cuts hide them well.
- Do not overpay for VVS or IF unless you specifically want it — the difference is invisible without magnification.
- Always review the certificate and, ideally, the clarity plot before buying.
- Balance clarity against cut and carat, since cut has the biggest impact on beauty.
Because lab-grown stones cost significantly less than mined equivalents, many buyers use the savings to secure a higher clarity or a larger stone. See the difference on our price comparison and explore graded stones in our lab-grown diamonds and engagement rings collections. For the wider picture, our diamond education guide covers all four Cs.
Frequently asked questions
Are lab-grown diamonds ever flawless?
Yes, but truly flawless (FL) lab-grown diamonds are uncommon and priced at a premium, just as they are among natural diamonds. Most stones fall somewhere along the clarity scale.
Can you see flaws in a lab-grown diamond?
Often not with the naked eye. Many inclusions are only visible under 10x magnification, which is why choosing an eye-clean grade gives you a beautiful stone without paying for invisible perfection.
Do flaws affect durability?
Most minor inclusions have no effect on durability. Only large inclusions near the surface, typically in the lowest clarity grades, can pose any structural concern.
Browse certified, clarity-graded stones in our lab-grown collection.
