Identifiers, as they are called, are natural identifying characteristics such as natural minerals or minute fractures, appearing while diamonds are formed in the earth. They appear to be like tiny crystals, clouds or feathers. The fewer and smaller the identifiers the higher the clarity grade.

To view identifiers, you must use a 10x magnifying loupe. This tool allows you to see a diamond at 10x its actual size so that the identifiers are easier to see. The size, nature, number, and position of identifiers can affect the overall value of a diamond. There are fewer flawless diamonds found in nature, these diamonds are the most valuable.

Identifiers are ranked on a special scale known as the GIA Clarity scale, which was established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The GIA Clarity scale, ranging from FL (Flawless) to Included (I), is based on the number of identifiers seen at 10x magnification.

Some identifiers are easily hidden by a traditional mounting, thus having little effect on the overall beauty of a diamond. The better a diamond's clarity, the more brilliant, valuable and rare.

Internally Flawless - IF
Free from all internal blemishes visible under 10x magnification.

Very very slightly included - VVS
Identifiers and/or external blemishes extremely difficult to locate under 10x magnification.

Very slightly included - VS
Identifiers and external blemishes which are difficult to locate under 10x magnification.

Slightly Included- SI
Identifiers and external blemishes rather easy to locate under 10x magnification.

Included - I
Medium or large identifiers on external blemishes which are obvious to the naked eye under 10 x magnification