Understanding Lab-Created Diamond Clarity

Lab-created diamonds are diamonds produced in a laboratory rather than mined from the earth. They are an environmentally friendly alternative to mined diamonds because they require less energy and water to produce.

They are also often used in jewelry because they have the same composition, brilliance, and shape as mined diamonds but are significantly cheaper. However, not all lab-created diamonds are created the same. Some low-quality lab-created diamonds are not clear enough to use in jewelry. 

In this guide will talk more about lab-created diamonds and how they're graded by clarity. 

Why You Should Care About Clarity Ratings

Clarity ratings are set by the Gemological Institute of America and are an indicator of how many blemishes and inclusions a diamond has during its growth process. A higher clarity diamond is typically treated with special care, including being kept away from oxygen and other contaminants, as well as being stored under ideal conditions, resulting in fewer imperfections. In general, a diamond’s clarity can impact its value, but imperfections typically can’t be seen by the naked eye.

There are six different diamond clarity categories according to GIA:

• Flawless,

• Internally Flawless,

• Very Very Slightly Included,

• Very Slightly Included,

• Slightly Included, and

• Included. 

Each rating has its own set of characteristics that make them unique. Refer to the table below to see the clarity category and grading:

The Flawless category includes diamonds with no inclusions or blemishes visible when viewed under ten times magnification.

Internally Flawless diamonds contain only tiny blemishes on the surface but have no inclusions that can be seen under magnification.

Very, Very Slightly Included rating includes diamonds with minuscule inclusion that a skilled grader will have difficulty seeing under magnification. The VVS1 subcategory signifies a higher clarity rating than VVS2.

Very Slightly Included diamonds have minor blemishes that are difficult or somewhat visible for a trained grader under magnification. 

Slightly Included grade diamonds have noticeable inclusions that are noticeable for a trained grader when viewed under magnification.

Included category refers to diamonds with obvious imperfections that can be seen clearly by a trained grader under 10x magnification.

Best Clarity For Lab-Created Diamonds

When choosing a lab-created diamond, opt for a diamond that is eye-clean, meaning no blemishes or inclusions are visible when you look at it without magnification.

For diamonds with large open facets, such as an Emerald, imperfections will be easily noticeable to the naked eye. For this reason, HauteCarat recommends clarity to be at least Very Slightly Included, either VS1 or VS2, for the best clarity and value.

Why Choose Lab-Created Diamonds

Lab-created diamonds are created in a laboratory using a process where diamond seeds are subjected to extreme heat to grow 100% real diamonds. They are considered an environmentally friendly alternative to mined diamonds because they require less energy and water to produce.

You'll Know Exactly Where Your Diamond Came From. A mined diamond comes from a natural source, such as a mine, where the diamond was formed millions of years ago. However, there's no guarantee that the stone came from its original location.

On the other hand, a lab-created diamond has been grown in the laboratory by scientists and engineers. This means that you will know exactly where your diamond came from. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing that your diamond is ethically and sustainably sourced.

You’ll Save Money. If you choose a lab-created diamond, you won't need to worry about mining costs, transportation, or other expenses associated with mining. In addition, lab-created diamonds tend to cost significantly less than mined ones, but they are as brilliant and durable as mined diamonds.

For more information about lab-created diamonds and to learn about your options, visit our website at hautecarat.com.