Diamond Clarity strictly deals with the aspect of a diamond
transparency and particularly as it is examined under 10x stereoscopic
magnification with proper dark field illumination as this is where the grading
is done.

The actual transparency (clarity) of a diamond is determined
by examining the internal imperfections (inclusions) as well as external
imperfections (blemishes). The examinations take into account 5 primary
features of these imperfections.

The size of these imperfections within the relative size of the diamond.

The nature of the inclusion (crystal, feather, nick, etc.).

It's relief (high or low) in the material.

The position within the diamond (ie. in the middle or on the side).

The color of the imperfect(s). (ie. black crystals vs white feathers).

How noticeable or not the inclusions are, as examined under
10x magnification will ultimately determine the actual clarity grade assigned
to the diamond.

The grades as defined by the Gemological Institute of
America are ...

Fl Flawless: No internal inclusions or external blemishes.

IF Internally Flawless: No internal inclusions but will have minute external
blemish(s).

VVS1 Very Very Slightly Included 1:

Imperfections that are extremely difficult to
locate under 10x.

VVS2 Very Very Slightly Included 2:

Imperfections which are very difficult to locate
under 10x.

VS1 Very Slightly Included 1:

Imperfections that are difficult to locate under
10x.

VS2 Very Slightly Included 2:

Imperfections that are somewhat easy to locate
under 10x.

SI1 Slightly Included 1: Imperfections that are easy to locate under 10x.

SI2 Slightly Included 2: Imperfections that are very easy to locate under
10x.

I1 Imperfect 1 (1st degree ):

Imperfections that are obvious to locate under 10x.

I2 Imperfect 2 (2nd degree):

Imperfections that are very obvious to locate under
10x.

I3 Imperfect 3 (3rd degree):

Imperfections that are extremely obvious to locate
under 10x.

Below are additional instructions from GIA on the subject.