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SI-3 Clarity Grade: Legit or Gimmick?

With diamond prices consistently going up we have received inquiries regarding the "SI-3" clarity grade. This clarity grade was introduced and offered by several grading labs beginning in 1992 at the behest of manufacturers seeking to squeeze more dollars out of consumers.

In our opinion and in the opinion of many in the trade, the SI-3 grade is a bulls--t grade that is removing the stigma of and really elevating an I-1. It's twilight zone diamond grading or like saying she's "a little bit pregnant."

Clarity grading of inclusions is predicated on three factors: 1. Location, location, location, 2. Size, and 3. Color. Inclusion(s) towards or in the center of the stone that are black, large and perhaps visible without magnification will logically receive a lower clarity grade than smaller, white, and/or wispy inclusions towards the periphery. Clarity grading does carry some subjectivity, but it is highly instructive that the #1 grading lab, GIA, does not acknowledge or use the SI-3 clarity grade.

Your ability to see inclusions in the face-up position without a loupe is critically dependent on the Cut of the diamond. The better the Cut, the more light coming up and out throught the top of the diamond, and the less likely you will pick up the inclusion(s). This goes for every diamond shape with the possible exception of the Emerald Cut, in which VS-2's may be noticeable due to it's unique facet geometry.

Improving the Cut of a diamond may therefore make an I-1 / I-2 clarity grade a viable candidate for purchase. Use your eyes and work with reputable vendors that know their diamonds.


Posted by Barry Gutwein on July 19, 2005 7:30 AM in Diamond Basics | Comments (15)

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