Clarity is one of the most commonly discussed — and most misunderstood — characteristics of a gemstone. At its simplest, clarity refers to the presence or absence of internal features within a stone. These features, known as inclusions, can include tiny crystals, fractures, wisps, feathers, needles, clouds, or natural growth patterns formed as the gemstone developed deep within the earth. Some gemstones appear completely transparent and eye-clean, while others contain visible inclusions that are considered part of their natural beauty.
Diamonds are one of the few gemstones with a highly standardized clarity grading system. Most diamonds are graded on a scale ranging from Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF), down through Very Very Slightly Included (VVS), Very Slightly Included (VS), Slightly Included (SI), and Included (I). These grades describe how visible inclusions are under magnification. An IF diamond, for example, has no internal inclusions visible under 10x magnification, making it exceptionally rare. SI diamonds contain inclusions that may be visible under magnification and, in some cases, to the naked eye depending on the stone.
Colour is also graded separately in diamonds using the D–Z colour scale. D represents a completely colourless diamond, while lower grades begin to show increasing warmth or yellow tone. A D colour diamond is considered the highest colour grade and is prized for its bright, icy appearance. Together, colour and clarity grading help communicate how rare and visually clean a diamond is.
Coloured gemstones are evaluated differently. Many gemstones naturally contain inclusions, and in some cases those inclusions are expected. Emeralds, for example, are almost always included, and finding one that is exceptionally clean is considered very rare. Other gemstones like sapphires, tourmalines, spinels, and aquamarines can range from heavily included to remarkably clear depending on the material and origin.
Inclusions are not always considered flaws. In fact, some inclusions help confirm that a gemstone is natural rather than synthetic, while others create visual effects that make certain stones especially desirable. The silky inclusions found in some sapphires can create a star effect, while internal structures in moonstones produce their signature glow. Many people are also drawn to inclusions simply because they make a gemstone feel unique — a reminder that it formed naturally over time and no two stones will ever be identical.
Clarity also plays a role in durability. Large fractures or surface-reaching inclusions can make some gemstones more vulnerable to chipping or damage, particularly in rings designed for everyday wear. That does not mean included stones should be avoided, but rather that they should be chosen thoughtfully depending on the type of jewellery being created. A gemstone can still be durable, valuable, and beautiful while containing inclusions.
Ultimately, clarity is less about perfection and more about character. Some people are drawn to crisp, transparent stones with very few visible inclusions, while others prefer gemstones that feel organic, layered, and full of individuality. Neither approach is wrong. Gemstones are natural materials shaped by heat, pressure, and time, and clarity is simply part of the story each stone carries with it.
